Why Are You Still Involved

This article presents qualitative research conducted with twenty Dutch Protestant Millennials regarding their involvement in local faith communities. Additionally, an online survey was distributed to supporters of the Dutch Evangelical Broadcasting Company (Evangelische Omroep) to provide broader context. Two key conclusions emerge from the study. First, for the Millennials in this research, church involvement is primarily about social interaction. They rely on a community to sustain their faith, with the church serving as a central source of spiritual renewal, particularly in relation to their everyday lives. The church community also functions as a safe space where they can both embody and explore their faith and doubts. Second, the respondents have high expectations for church services as a key avenue for their spiritual formation. They highly value a challenging sermon and an inclusive, open liturgy that connects with their daily experiences

Faith · Liturgy · Protestantism · Qualitative research · Sermon · Religion and Society Interactions · Religion, Society, and Development · Religious Education and Schools