| Generation X is generally defined as those born between 1963 and 1980. They are now between the ages of 18 and 35. An article in Context, a Canadian bulletin on church related research published by World Vision Canada, (Spring 1998, vol.7 no.2), described that generation for churches in terms of the following characteristics.
1. The Post-Churched Generation
The majority of Generation X has never been involved in a church, or even a Sunday School. Their parents stopped attending when they were young people - in the 1960s and 70s. This generation is interested in spirituality, but has no background and little interest in formal religion.
2. The Post-TV Generation
This is the first generation raised on television. By the age of five, it has been calculated, many of them had watched 5000 hours of television. Their world has been presented to them in images, in 30 minute time slots and 30 second bytes. 'Information for Gen X communicates best as entertainment' says Context.
3. The Post-Divorce Generation
Divorce has become so widespread that it has affected the whole generation. It has influenced opinions about marriage, family and trust. It may well have encouraged Generation X not to make commitments in marriage and to delay child-bearing.The experience of divorce has left many scars.
4. The Post-Feminist Generation
Equality issues are taken for granted by this generation. It doesn't debate feminism, but simply assumes the ideas of female and male equality. This will be important, says Context, for churches which do not support the ordination of women. Many Generation Xers will simply reject them and walk away.
5. The Post-Modern Generation
Generation X is deeply suspicious of grand claims, says Context. It sees life as complex, and distrusts simple solutions. Churches which claim they have the last and final word on everything will find it very hard to attract this generation who cannot believe that there is just 'one way for all'. They will look at Christianity as one of the many options that can be considered in a world in which they see each person as finding his or her own truth and meaning.
There is a pragmatism in the ways this generation approaches issues. If they see something as working, they will respond. There is no need to be embarrassed about presenting the Christian faith to this generation, but each person will make up his or her own mind about its value. Relationships and friendships are the mainstay of life and demonstrating commitment in relationships may be very significant in communicating what the Christian faith is all about.
Philip Hughes
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