Adulting is hard. Even more so for college graduates as they look for direction past classrooms for the first time. How can churches support these young adults to help them have a successful start in independent living? Here are five things to think about in your church to help launch graduates well.
1. Provide “adulting” classes.
Some young adults may not have parents who have taught or are teaching their kids in basic skills of adulthood like cooking, household management, basic car maintenance, filing taxes, other finance tips, etc. Many college graduates are looking for a safe and fun place to learn these skillsets. What a great opportunity for the church to step into, whether used as outreach or as a resource for your members.
2. Schedule in “faith and works” talks.
College graduates and many long-lived adults are trying to learn how to integrate their faith with their work. Churches can provide classes about specific industries and how they are making an impact on kingdom work, or you can host lectures with Q&A from CEOs or other professional leaders who have integrated their faith with their work. Bring in experts in various fields that can speak personally or generally to the topic to remind graduates that they can have a kingdom mindset in any field of study.
3. Invite graduates into ministry roles.
Every role can be filled with a young adult who is looking for a place in the church. Sometimes an invitation is the needed push to get someone involved. Give them a timeframe in a specific area to let them know that you’re looking to see if it’s a good fit with their desires and giftings. That allows the person to know that you are interested in their development and not just using them as an available body. Develop growth opportunities as well so they know they are valued and developing as a leader.
4. Offer multigenerational groups and communities.
Part of the maturing process is the transition from having peer college friends to making friends with multigenerational groups. Are groups in your church by life stage or multigenerational, or are they both? When you have both, graduates can find the place they need. Many may be looking for community with those older than them for wisdom and guidance.
5. Develop a mentorship program.
College grads and young adults are looking for guidance apart from their parents—in life, in work, in relationships, in their spiritual walk. All the above points can happen through a mentoring relationship. The church can launch young adults well when they develop a mentorship plan that disciples them to further maturity.