Church leaders often seek ways to keep young adults involved during the transitions of young adulthood.

• Don't ignore us. There doesn't seem to be any place for us after the college group unless it's helping with the teen group (and a lot do that in my church).
• I think having a small group to mentor and help us with our concerns and spiritual challenges would be helpful. Help us connect with the other generations in the congregation. We can learn a lot from people who are 5 to 50 years older than we are.
• Churches need to let young adults know they are important to the church. Provide a structure for them; listen to them to see what they are looking for. Churches will automatically become more effective with young adult ministry if they show through their actions (providing structure, belonging, and leadership) that young adults are a priority.
• The time right after graduation is such a scary time of making decisions, finding your spouse, finding your place in your career, finding a place to live, and so on. The church should be one place that young adults find guidance!
• Maybe churches could identify local companies and business who have hired recent college graduates. Then, reach out to those who are struggling to live on their own for the first time. Offer financial seminars, social gatherings to meet others, and provide fellowship opportunities. But most importantly, get them involved. Not just in youth and children's ministries, include community outreach. Our generation wants to help, to serve, and to get involved!
• Have a group that college/career age individuals can attend. Important aspects of this group would be active community involvement and a concentration on discipleship and evangelism. We also need to associate with older adults for discipleship.
• Find out where we are in our careers, on our spiritual journeys, in our relationships, and where we want to be. Identify people in the church who are willing to mentor us. Invite us to be part of a ministry or encourage, empower, and support us as we begin one. We still have things to learn! We can add valuable components to the church such as creativity, energy, and an adventurous spirit.

Information about young adults often paints them with a broad brush and can be disheartening. These comments from young adults with connections to the Church of the Nazarene remind us that many are committed to living the Christian lifestyle. Our challenge is to mentor, encourage, and support them as they seek direction for their lives. These comments extend an invitation for adults to share life with them. What actions are you taking?