Gen Z’s Incompetent Converts
The article discusses a noticeable shift in the attitudes of Gen Z towards religion, highlighting a growing interest among students who previously dismissed it as outdated. Some students now find inspiration in religious texts, viewing them as sources of hope and empowerment. However, the author expresses concern that this newfound religiosity may be superficial and individualistic, lacking a deeper understanding of religion's communal and transformative aspects.
- ▪Gen Z students are increasingly finding religious texts interesting and inspiring.
- ▪A self-described pro-choice feminist found empowerment in the martyrdom story of Saints Felicity and Perpetua.
- ▪The author notes a trend of superficiality in the newfound religiosity among Gen Z, which may focus more on individualism than community.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Gen Z’s Incompetent Converts Stephen G. Adubato May 22, 2026 Share Share via X Share via Facebook Share via email Copy link May 22, 2026 Share Share via X Share via Facebook Share via email Copy link In the introduction to theology course I teach for college freshmen, one of the assigned readings is the third-century account of the martyrdoms of Saints Felicity and Perpetua. For years, the text—which depicts the gruesome torture and death of these women, one of whom had just given birth—provoked negative reactions. It especially seemed to anger the feminists in my classes, who argued it was “patriarchal” and “glorified abuse of women.” But to my surprise, two years ago a student—a self-described pro-choice feminist—said she found the story to be inspiring.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Compact Magazine.
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