America’s “most anxious generation” is turning to faith as an antidote to secularism and digital media overload—a combination that has left them more stressed and disconnected than ever, according to a national movement.
Organizers of a coast-to-coast prayer movement during Stress Awareness Month in April and Mental Health Awareness Month in May cite survey data showing 40% of young people feel stressed or anxious “all or most of the time.”
At the same time, interest in faith among Gen Z—young people ages 14-29—is rising on U.S. college campuses and drawing more young Americans to church. Last year, a Barna poll revealed 52% of U.S. teenagers were “very motivated” to learn more about Jesus Christ.
“There’s a hunger among my generation for things that are real,” said Reagan Wilbanks, 27, one of the organizers of the multi-denominational Prayer at the Heart movement. It aims to mobilize one million Americans to pray for an “awakening of faith and hope.”
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Wilbanks said many young Americans feel overwhelmed by AI-generated content, uncertainty about the future, and a lack of meaningful relationships.
“My generation is pushing back against things that are fake, quickly generated, and automated,” he said. “There’s a desire for real community and belonging—for smaller, more personal connections rather than big brands.”
Movement leaders say the U.S. is nearing a spiritual and cultural “point of no return,” requiring a divine response fueled by prayer.
Since launching at Easter, the project—involving Protestants and Catholics—has sparked a groundswell of public prayer in towns and cities across all 50 states. Its goal is to see one million Americans “come to faith in Jesus Christ.”
Breathe Deep, Connect with God
“A relationship with God—whether you call it religion or faith—is where you begin to find meaning,” Wilbanks said, adding that prayer helps people “breathe deeply and connect with God.”
Many young Americans are turning to established faith traditions to find purpose and belonging.
Recent reports point to increased participation in the Catholic Church, including 1,701 new converts in Newark, New Jersey. Colleges such as the University of Notre Dame and Arizona State University also report increases in converts, according to The Catholic Standard. Church leaders, including Catholic Bishop Robert Barron, say the shift reflects a pushback against secularism and atheism, along with a “hunger for truth.”
The trend comes as concerns grow over artificial intelligence and its impact on jobs and stability. “We’re looking for something with roots—stability and longevity—especially given the pace of change,” Wilbanks said. “We’re looking for a home.”