Leveling Up Gen Z

… I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

John 10:10b NIV

In just two short weeks, our middle and high school students will head off to our annual Y-Camps, with this year’s theme being “Level Up.” The majority of our teen campers will be Gen Z, a generation that is searching for ways to live life to the full.

Why “Level Up”?

Gen Z is said to be the most digitally connected and diverse generation in history. They now make up a significant portion of the global population and consumer market, shaping trends in culture, technology, and belief.

Beyond their influence, Gen Z faces unique challenges. They are referred to by some as the “loneliest generation” and the “anxious generation” as their near-constant hours spent online can foster feelings of isolation and depression.

But there is more to Gen Z than being digital natives. A recent Stanford study found that most Gen Zers prefer in-person communication. Many are also activists and idealists who believe in and fight for change.

It’s clear that Generation Z is looking for something more. They are looking for connection, for growth, for purpose. They are looking to level up.

“Leveling up” means rising to a higher standard, embracing personal growth, and discovering one’s God-given identity. This theme reflects our desire to help Gen Z grow—not just in knowledge or talent, but in faith, purpose, and character. It reflects the same desire God has for each of us—to not settle for mediocrity, but create something new and bold in our lives and the world:

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

Isaiah 43:19 NIV

Camp will provide a space for teens to unplug and connect face-to-face so that they can build deep, spiritual, and meaningful friendships. Through inspiring lessons, engaging activities, and real conversations, we’ll help these students see that their lives matter—and that God has a powerful purpose for each of them.

We’re committed to showing Gen Z a clear, compassionate view of God and his church. Let’s continue to pray and support our youth as they prepare to level up—because when we love like Jesus, people’s lives are transformed.

Making God known and doing good through our summer Y-Camps

Our summer camps are more than a fun and memorable experience. They give us a glimpse into the kind of church we are building together: one that makes God known and does good in the community and in the lives of young people like them.

…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good…because God was with him.

Acts 10:38 NIV

Here are a few ways our camps embody the values of our church:

Building friendships that reflect God’s love: Our church believes God is a relationship, not a concept. As we experience his love, we extend it to others. That’s why our camps are designed to help teens personally encounter this love and foster healthy, spiritual friendships with both God and peers.

Making inclusion a way of life: Our church believes people of all abilities deserve to be valued and included. We intentionally create an environment at camp that is accessible to and inclusive of people with disabilities.

Training young leaders who serve wholeheartedly: Our church believes in raising up the next generation as trailblazers who lead others to God. At camp, our predominantly Gen Z and Millennial volunteer counselors are doing just that, undergoing extensive training on how to lead meaningful discussions, handle tough topics, connect with teens, and help them grow spiritually. We take the preparation required to set up these camps seriously, knowing the potential for incredible growth and transformation.

Empowering generosity that makes a difference: Our camps are possible because of our church family. Because of the generosity of our members, no one pays full price, and every student has the opportunity to experience camp. This is what it means to be a church that does good: we show up for each other, especially the next generation.

What you can do

You and your prayers are part of the rescue operation—I don’t want you in the dark about that either. I can see your faces even now, lifted in praise for God’s deliverance of us, a rescue in which your prayers played such a crucial part.

2 Corinthians 1:11 MSG

Your prayers play a crucial part in making these camps transformative. As we prepare for a powerful week of camp, we invite our entire church family to join us in prayer. Pray for our teens to experience God in a personal and transformative way. Pray for our counselors to lead with wisdom, compassion, and energy. And pray for lasting spiritual impact that continues long after the cabins are packed and the campers return home.

Together, let’s make this summer one where our teens don’t just have fun, but take bold steps toward becoming who God created them to be—a generation that makes him known and does good in the world.

Until next time,
BACC Staff