In a world defined by digital distance and internet interaction, the simple human need for authentic, in-person connection has never been more important, especially for people who have never known a time in their life where social media wasn’t their public square.
But where do you find it?
So many in Generation Z have only two in-person spaces they could have healthy, wholesome human interaction: church and work. The majority of their time is spent interacting with friends and content on social media, which leads to an ever increasing sense of loneliness. 8 out of 10 members of Generation Z report being lonely, which has led to it being dubbed “The Lonely Generation.”
As a member of this young populace, I concur that it is a hard case to crack. We stare at our glowing rectangles for hours and find ourselves constantly refreshing our Instagram, seeking connection through groups on Discord or wondering why we don’t feel satisfied building a relationship through Snaps that tell us nothing about the person on the other side of the interaction.
But where can we go for in person, meaningful community? Bars seem to be the default for older generations, but Gen Z has no interest in drinking. In fact, half of Gen Z have never even consumed an alcoholic beverage. The majority of us just want a safe, 3rd space environment to befriend, bond, bless, and be blessed by fellow Image bearers.
Enter Social Lights, a built-in, welcoming community dedicated to helping Generation Z find where they truly belong. Their vibrant, purposeful initiative to bring people together is to foster genuine relationships and point all to the only source of true satisfaction: Christ Jesus.
The core message is straightforward and inviting: “Need somewhere to belong? Try here.” Social Lights actively plans and promotes a variety of social events to meet the need of in-person connections (by signing up for their email list, you gain immediate access to information on all their upcoming gatherings)!
Although so many Gen Zers desire in person gatherings, many are terrified at the thought of showing up without knowing anyone. The director and founder of Social Lights, David Robison, firmly believes in the importance of creating a welcoming enviroment, and that is why he recruited a team that he calls Gluesticks, the ambassadors of Social Lights. They are the social ‘glue’ wherever they are. So no matter what Social Lights event you attend, you will always be greeted by friendly faces and a desire to know you as a fellow image-bearer.
Come give it a try—the perfect opportunity is coming up on November 14th! A Fine Dining Banquet for ages 18–30 will be held at Bethel Presbyterian Church in Wheaton, Illinois. I’ll be there—and I hope you will be too!
