As technology changes and the world keeps moving faster, differences between our youngest generations and their parents and grandparents are growing wider. Boomer grandparents today had more cultural characteristics in common with their own grandparents than they do with their Gen Z and Alpha grandchildren. This, added to the trend of more and more young people leaving the church and not returning, makes it clear how crucial it is to build bridges of compassion and understanding between generations. This workshop will describe the different ways that various generations look at the world (and faith), and will strategize ways to build intergenerational community that leads to a thriving church.

Stephanie Luedtke is a minister, educator, and artist. She often combines the three, weaving education and arts through her ministry or ministry into arts education. Stephanie is a rostered Pastor in the ELCA with 25 years of experience in ministry of various sorts, and holds a Master’s Degree in Worship Arts. She enjoys helping people of all ages find meaningful ways to worship, learn, and to be in faithful community together. Through her work in schools, private settings, churches, and at the judicatory level, and independent work as a consultant, coach, and curriculum writer, Stephanie has always tried to follow her passions and assist others in doing the same.