The years after a young adult graduates from college can be just as transformative for them as their time in school. Although they experience a sense of independence and responsibility in college, they may not understand the full weight of adulthood until after graduation.

Habits and routines young adults establish now will likely follow them throughout the rest of their lives. Which is why it is so critical they have guidance and support to help them implement and maintain godly practices in their lives.

According to a study by Pew Research Center, only 36% of college graduates say they attend church services regularly, or at least once a week. Of those who do attend church, only 13% are aged 18 to 29.

This is why it’s important that spiritual leaders and parents help young adults truly understand the significance of being involved in a local church.

Below are four reasons why Gen Z grads need to get plugged into a church after college.

Help Them Find Community

Within this new phase of life, many young adults have moved to new cities to pursue career opportunities or may have even moved back home. Adjusting to the abrupt separation from their friends and the lack of social interaction can leave them feeling lonely or even isolated. Joining a local church can provide Gen Z with the community they are looking for.

Hebrews 10:24–25 emphasizes the importance of having other believers to support us on our spiritual journeys. The verses read, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another — and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Within a church, there are countless opportunities for young adults to meet new people and develop friendships with fellow believers. By being a part of a small group or a Bible study, it can help young adults establish relationships with individuals who are like them and can encourage them in their walk with Christ.

Only 36% of college graduates say they attend church services regularly, or at least once a week. Of those who do attend church, only 13% are aged 18 to 29.

Build a Christian Support System

Getting plugged into a local church can also provide young adults with a strong circle of fellow believers to walk through life together. While it is important for them to create connections with individuals in their same age group, it is just as crucial to have spiritual leaders they can look to for mentorship.

The Bible frequently mentions the need for discipleship as a means for growth in one’s faith. And the Church can be foundational for this type of development.

Ephesians 4:11–13 says, “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.”

During this season in their lives, pastors and church leaders should come alongside young adults to encourage and provide them with the guidance they need. Through mentorship opportunities, leaders can offer young adults accountability, which is paramount to their spiritual growth.

Develop and Deepen Their Faith

The local church is the best place for young adults to increase their knowledge of the Bible and strengthen their personal relationships with Christ. Many young adults may have previously been involved in a church because of their parents’ faith. As they learn to be more independent, it is important young adults develop and deepen their own faith in Christ.

Ephesians 4:15–16 talks about the importance of working together toward the advancement of the church body. It says, “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.”

As young adults develop and flourish in their faith, they will be able to live out the roles God has designed for them as members of the Church. And, as a result, they can help others grow in their own faith as well.

Fulfill Their Purpose

Once a young adult is regularly involved in a local church, he or she will be able to discover the gifts God has given them and learn more about the purpose God has for their life. This will enable them to serve both their fellow believers and the surrounding community to their full potential.

1 Peter 4:10 says, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace” (ESV).

With a passion for social justice, Gen Z is known for wanting to enact change in the world. Through volunteering and taking part in various ministries, these young men and women will be able to channel this passion into fulfilling what God has for them and the Church.

Getting plugged into a church is vital in helping college graduates transition into adulthood and remain firm in their faith. If they can find their belonging and identity in Christ during these formative years, it will help them understand their meaning and purpose in life.

Once young adults are on the right path, it will prepare them to lead their future families to pursue Christ, as well as the individuals they encounter every day.