From Scepticism to Faith: A Journey as a 90s Teen

Perception of Faith in High School

As a young man navigating high school, I found faith unappealing. Church seemed like a place for older people, particularly old women, and the kids who were forced to attend—mostly my Protestant neighbours—were considered odd. This perception was pervasive and contributed to my disinterest in Catholicism during my formative years.

The 90s: A Generation of Independence and Skepticism

The Gen X Mindset

Growing up in the 90s, part of Generation X, we were known for our independence and resilience. Influenced by rebellious cultural movements like grunge and hip-hop, we often exhibited scepticism towards institutions, including religion. We were the "latchkey kids" of a time marked by economic uncertainty and significant social change, which fostered a "we do it our way" mentality.

The Pendulum Swing: A Return to Faith

Materialism and Sexualisation

Since the 90s, the world has plunged further into materialism and sexualisation. Looking back, the 90s and 2000s now seem quaint in comparison. Yet, where sin abounds, grace abounds more. We are witnessing a significant swing back towards the Catholic Church.

A Surge in Conversions

La Croix International reported in April 2024 that around 7,000 adults officially became Catholics this past Easter in France, marking the latest surge in a surprising 10-year trend. Similarly, The Standard UK reported in February 2024 that Gen Z is converting, finding themselves at traditional Latin Masses, and following Catholic influencers. These trends, now being noticed by secular media, reflect a broader movement visible on platforms like X, Instagram, and YouTube, where major Catholic media accounts are led by Gen X to Gen Z.

The Search for Authenticity

Yearning for the Real

What's driving this resurgence? It may be a yearning for something real in an increasingly virtual and superficial world. It could be a search for meaning in an era of nihilism. Whatever the reason, the faith that once seemed lame to a 90s kid like me is now resonating with a new generation. This shift proves that sometimes, the oldest institutions can offer the freshest perspectives.

Catholicism: The Ultimate Counter-Cultural Force

Historical Rebellion

Catholicism has always been counter-cultural. Since James Dean donned his iconic leather jacket in "Rebel Without a Cause," teenagers have been encouraged to believe that adolescent rebellion is normal. While adolescence is a time of self-discovery and pushing boundaries, in 2024, some teens are starting to recognise that the same forces their boomer parents rebelled against in the 1960s are now promoting the very degeneracy and nihilistic materialism they are expected to embrace.

Enter the Catholic Church

Founded by Jesus Christ, who said, "If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you" (John 15:18-20). The Church teaches us to fight against this world run by the devil: "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places."

Reaching the New Generation

Appeal to Their Rebellion

We need to reach out to this generation, appealing to their sense of rebellion but directing it correctly towards the material and secular world. We must help them realise that the Church has always been counter-cultural, from Christ Himself to the apostles and Church fathers, and even today. The Church stands unapologetically against the wickedness of the world, come what may. As St. Athanasius of Alexandria once said, "If the world is against the truth, then I am against the world."

Embrace the Counter-Cultural Church

By embracing the Church's counter-cultural nature, we can inspire this new generation to find meaning and authenticity in their faith. The resurgence of Catholicism among Gen Z and beyond is a testament to the timeless relevance of the Church's teachings and its unwavering stand against the moral decay of the modern world.