In a time when religious affiliation is on the decline, especially among younger generations, Youth For Christ (YFC) is doubling down on its commitment to reaching young people with a message of hope.
A recent Pew Research Center study suggests that by 2070, religiously unaffiliated individuals could outnumber Christians, with the trend already evident among Gen Z (born 1997–2012). For 80 years, YFC has aimed to counter this trend, providing mentorship, community, and faith-based support to youth across the United States.
To address this growing secularization, YFC has refined its approach, focusing on what it calls the “3Story” method, which emphasizes building relationships as the foundation for sharing the Gospel.
Ryan Anderson, Senior National Ministry Specialist at YFC, explains the method: “Through 3Story, YFC leaders share their own lives with high school students, work to discover the story of young people they meet, and then organically share God’s story and invite young people to be a part of God’s story of hope in their lives.”
The framework centers around three overlapping “stories” – God’s Story, My Story, and Their Story. The model fosters trust and transformation by building authentic connections and offering relational support. Pete Kirchhoff, YFC Campus Life National Specialist, emphasized the importance of these connections, saying, “Campus Life leaders share the Gospel and build community through 3Story relationships with students. Leaders go to where young people are, primarily schools, to meet students. Relationships are strengthened through ‘building time’ activities, and these students are invited to Campus Life clubs where community is fostered, and the truths of Jesus Christ are introduced.”
Remarkable transformations thru Youth for Christ
Through its dedicated leaders and programs, the organization has seen remarkable transformations in young lives. Braden, a student whom YFC staff met in a juvenile detention center, represents one such story. After weeks of weekly visits and support, Braden committed his life to Christ, and his newfound faith led to such a dramatic change in behavior. A detention center guard remarked, “I’ve been watching Braden, and his changed life has moved me so much that I have recommitted my life to Christ.”
Another student, Denise, shared her journey with YFC, beginning in sixth grade when she first attended Campus Life. “I was very shy, but the adults made me feel welcome and part of the group,” she said. After a YFC concert event, Denise accepted Christianity, and despite challenges such as her mother’s passing, she found steadfast support from her YFC mentors, who helped her navigate life’s milestones even after graduation.
The mission of Youth for Christ remains unchanged as it faces the challenge of a secularizing world: to introduce young people to a Savior who offers hope, redemption, and unconditional love. As it partners with local churches and other organizations, YFC’s goal is to raise up future generations who lead by their faith, dedication to the Bible, prayer, and a commitment to community involvement.
–Dwight Widaman | Metro Voice