There is so much fear that teens leaving the church are missing out on the only opportunity to learn Truth and practice faithful community. We forget that God is everywhere else too. I’ve talked with so many that needed to step away to gain a little perspective and truly seek God in a way they weren’t taught to. I understand the fear of parents and church leaders. I also understand that God is so much bigger than those fears and he can pluck anyone from their apathy, walk hand in hand with anyone through their questions, and restore anyone who is searching – and those who aren’t.

As a teen, I somehow got the message that church/relationship with God wasn’t about feeling, but about discipline, simple acceptance, and obedience. While those do ring true, God moves me. He gave me my feelings and the desire to be experiential and mystic as you described so well. Faith is a living, breathing thing, and our job (as mentors, pastors, parents) is to help the kids in our lives navigate that.

Love your heart, Adam!!