With the school year coming to a close and summer just around the corner, our church small group is taking a break. While my husband and I appreciate the pause on leading and hosting responsibilities, our three sons are disappointed. 

Having our home filled with 20-somethings on Tuesday evenings is often the highlight of their week. They relish the chance to talk sports with some of the guys and participate in the icebreaker question before heading to bed. They count it a privilege to hang out with these cool older siblings in the faith.

My sons seem to understand something that many of us in older generations can easily miss—Gen Z is a vital component of the church. And Gen Z has something to teach us. 

That’s why our Essay Contest for Young Adults has become one of my favorite initiatives at TGC. Several years ago, my colleague Megan Hill designed the contest because she was convinced that Gen Z includes thoughtful Christian writers, and she was determined to find them. 

The results blew us away. We’ve not only received hundreds of essays and published three winners each year (plus additional worthy submissions), but the contest has also helped us connect with talented writers who are now regular contributors to our site. 

It’s our joy to open submissions for the 2025 contest and invite writers aged 16–22 to write about the Bible’s teaching on sexuality and marriage, joy in work, and intergenerational relationships in the church. We hope you’ll let the young adults in your life know about the contest or start working on your own entry.

Gen Z, we believe the Lord has gifted you to bless his church, and we can’t wait to hear from you!