38. My Daughter Elizabeth Interviewed

The American church is facing an unprecedented shift, with younger generations rapidly dechurching and stepping away from organized religion. In this episode, we dive into the reasons behind this trend with my daughter, a Stanford epidemiologist and biostatistician. Raised in an evangelical megachurch, deeply involved in campus ministry, and now attending an LGBTQ-affirming Presbyterian church, Elizabeth shares some of her experiences and observations. We discuss the key factors driving millennials and Gen Z away from traditional churches, including the treatment of women, queer individuals, and other marginalized groups. Elizabeth shares insights on how church teachings on sexuality, authority, and social justice have influenced her peers' decisions to leave—or stay—in religious communities. From purity culture to the political entanglements of modern Christianity, we explore why so many young people feel disillusioned with faith institutions and what it would take for churches to truly be places of belonging. If you're curious about the intersection of faith, justice, and identity—or wondering what an inclusive church looks like—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. We cover everything from affirming theology to the broader cultural shifts shaping young people's spiritual lives. Tune in as we unpack what it means to question, evolve, and reclaim faith in a changing world.