Broad historical and cultural changes have shifted traditional life scripts from generation to generation. Over the past several decades, the changing nature of families and work has made a significant impact on the role of religion, particularly in teenagers and young adults. While many young people have embraced religion as a part of their lives, sociologists and pastors have observed a compartmentalized version of faith rather than a rich solid ground for growth in love and grace. What factors make the idea of church-going less plausible or less attractive in our modern society? Where can true, meaningful change happen in the lives of young people?

In this episode, Chris and Eddie are joined by Dr. Christian Smith, the William R. Keenan Professor of Sociology at the University of Notre Dame and author of Handing Down the Faith: How Parents Pass Their Religion on to the Next Generation. Dr. Smith’s work examines the variety of reasons that individuals and communities are religious, as well as the impact of the family institution on traditional religious beliefs. Dr. Smith talks to Eddie and Chris about a general form of faith called “moralistic therapeutic deism,” the structures of society and culture that have made transitions challenging for young people, and the expectations that parents have for church congregations.

Learn more about Dr. Smith's work here:

https://christiansmith.nd.edu

Check out all of Dr. Smith’s books here

Order Handing Down the Faith: How Parents Pass Their Religion on to the Next Generation here:

https://www.amazon.com/Handing-Down-Faith-Religion-Generation/dp/0190093323

Read more about The National Study of Youth and Religion here:

https://youthandreligion.nd.edu