Why There Are Benefits of Church Attendance For Teens

I’ve spent years counseling teens aged 12 to 24 and noticed some common traits they all share. These truths highlight why the benefits of church for teens are so important. Here are a few key traits:

1. They’re trying to figure out who they are.

2. It’s tough for them to think beyond themselves.

3. Friends have a massive impact.

4. Their core values are being shaped right now.

5. Teens tend to become like the friends they spend the most time with.

What Are The Benefits of Church For Teens?

So, why do these facts about teens make church so important? Let’s explore this point by point.

Teens Are Trying to Find An Identity

A major benefit of church for teens is building a strong, healthy identity. Teens often build their identity around things like parties, popularity, or their appearance. Others get so wrapped up in being accepted into a great college that other, more important things take a backseat. But when their identity is grounded in God, they start to see their worth in a deeper way. Church helps teens realize God loves them, and their self-esteem increases when they understand this. They no longer feel they have to be the prettiest, strongest, or fastest to be important and accepted. They care less about the Friday night scene and more about the bigger picture.

Church Helps Them Focus On Helping Others

Teens tend to put their own needs first. When they’re in a youth group or small group people constantly challenge them to prioritize others. The pastor, adult leaders, and even other teens encourage them to care for others, think bigger, and take action. It’s a powerful shift away from the “me-first” mindset that’s so common at this age. This is an important benefit of church for teens.

Church Helps Them Find Better Friends

Let’s be real. Teens fall heavily under their friends’ influence. Would you rather they hang out with kids who are constantly partying or kids talking about their faith, goals, and serving others? Church doesn’t guarantee perfect friends, but it definitely ups the chances of finding positive influences.

This Is When Their Character Gets Built

When teens have too much freedom, they often test limits. Not because they’re bad, but because they don’t want rules getting in the way of fun. The problem? Habits like lying or sneaking around can stick. But teens who spend time in church are more likely to build character traits like honesty, kindness, and humility, and those last way beyond the teen years. Building good character is a key benefit of church for teens.

Big Dreams Come from Positive Influences

Teens usually aim for whatever their friend group is aiming for. If everyone’s slacking off and doing the bare minimum, your teen probably will too. But if they’re surrounded by friends who are talking about their goals, faith, and making a difference, your teen is way more likely to be motivated.

The Benefits of Church for Teens Are Real

According to a collaborative research paper written by Drs. Waite and Lehrer, studies show that children from Christian families tend to have stronger relationships with their parents. Research also links religious involvement to lower rates of addiction, depression, and delinquency. Children who grew up involved in a religion also tend to have more positive views on marriage, parenting, and sexual boundaries. The benefits of church for teens are real, not just someone’s opinion.

Church Is Worth The Effort

Even if it doesn’t always feel fun dragging everyone to church, it pays off. You’re building habits that lead to a stronger moral compass, more compassion, and better decision-making. The benefits of church for teens are real, and they last a lifetime. So go ahead—plant that seed. Your teen (and your whole family) will thank you later.

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Helping teens grow and families improve connection,
Lauren Goodman, MS, MFT