Experiences of Youth and Young Adults’ Engagement in Sabbath School

Seminary Commons

Sabbath School has been an established program for spiritual growth, faith development and relationship building for congregants of the Seventh-day Adventist Church (SDA), yet youth and young adults experience different levels of engagement in Sabbath School. Concerns from the North American Division Youth Ministry Department report an increased lack of engagement from youth and young adults attending Sabbath School programs. Similarly, many young adults question whether Sabbath School is essential in their walk with God. Consequently, a recent survey conducted on the campus of Andrews University obtained insight from youth and young adults about their Sabbath School experience. Emerging results highlight factors that challenge youth and young adults’ personal and spiritual growth in the SDA Church, that often conflict with their personal values, stage of faith development, and the relevance of Sabbath School in their lives. Current research on youth and young-adult ministry in the SDA Church reports a decline in church attendance. Effective dialogue about the future of Youth and Young Adult Sabbath School is pertinent to our success. This presentation will share the opinions and experiences of young adults from this recent study and their perspective on Sabbath School.