Across the country churches are struggling to connect with young people as their congregations age. But so rarely do we have the opportunity to hear from young people themselves. In this book of essays we hear the raw experience of young people’s encounter with religion, sometimes ecstatic, sometimes dreary, and most often of no account at all. A sharp critique of religion in 21st century Britain, this book of essays is essential reading for anyone interested in this field. -- Avril Baigent
Description
In 2017 NatCen’s British Social Attitudes survey published statistics that 53% of the people in Britain say they have ‘no religion’ and that of those 70% of the 18-24 age-group claim to have 'no religion'. These essays attempt to say why, and are individual responses rather than a systematic examination of the question. Atheist, Agnostic, Irish, Catholic, Protestant, and Muslim views are represented. The purpose was to explain a social trend but, in the process of writing, several of the contributors have, as if by chance, produced material which is richly meditative and can be read both for information and as spiritual reflection. The Editor, Brian Mountford, is concerned that, too often, the religious views of the young are discussed by older clergy and writers but rarely heard first hand. This book is a partial remedy. Mountford has written opening and closing chapters, setting the scene and finally asking what future there is for religion.