#1

Point #1, “Nobody’s listening to us.”

Let’s be honest.  The statement as written is completely false on its face.  I’ve already provided 3 places where this is actually currently happening, I’m quite sure there are others, these are just the ones I know about.

“Millennials value voice and receptivity above all else. When a church forges ahead without ever asking for our input, we get the message loud and clear: NOBODY CARES WHAT WE THINK.”

I’ve personally watched the damage caused to a church when the “greatest generation” wouldn’t develop and pass on leadership to “baby boomers”, so I understand the inherent danger in failing to develop next generation leadership and to value input from the next generation.  This is a legitimate and reasonable issue to be concerned by.  

“Why should we blindly serve an institution that we cannot change or shape?”

You shouldn’t.   Although, I’d be willing to bet that a significant number of millennials do exactly that when it comes to other institutions. 

The author’s proposed solutions.

“Create regular outlets to discover the needs of young adults both inside and outside the church.”

As I pointed out Fuller Seminary (among other places) is already engaged in this very process, perhaps finding and engaging with areas where this is already happening would be a positive step forward.

“Invite millennials to serve on leadership teams or advisory boards where they can make a difference.”

One of the (millennial) executive leadership team members at our church made this exact plea two weeks ago.   I’d point out that it’s hard to ask folks who aren’t already attending or engaged at some level.   It seems unreasonable to pick random millennials “off of the streets” and install them in leadership or advisory positions simply because of their generation.   But, in a general sense, this also is a pretty good, if not earth shattering, suggestion.

“Hire a young adults pastor who has the desire and skill-set to connect with millennials.”

Good suggestion.   Although the assumption behind the questions suggests that this is not happening.  I know for a fact that it is.  I also know for a fact that millennials are actively engaged in church planting efforts with some degree of success.  I could also point to one church with a millennial (or at least near millennial) senior pastor.   In short, it’s a good idea, and it’s already being done, maybe not often enough, but it is being done.