Valuegenesis: Understanding Adventist Youth

RIVERSIDE, CALIF. – The Valuegenesis Project has been a cornerstone in understanding the lives and faith of Seventh-day Adventist youth for more than 30 years. This collaboration, involving the North American Division Office of Education, La Sierra University and a team of researchers, embarked on its fourth study, Valuegenesis 4 (VG4), beginning in October 2021. Through decades-long research, including previous studies in 1990, 2000 and 2010, Valuegenesis offers invaluable insights into the spiritual growth, challenges and changing dynamics within our youth community.

VG4 aims to deepen our understanding of Adventist youth today, building on questions of faith development, community engagement and personal challenges that have been part of the project’s fabric since its inception. According to FaithInstitute.org, the Valugenesis Project seeks to answer questions about Adventist youth like, “How are they doing in their faith and development, school life, family and personal growth?” and “Are they doing better or worse than they were 10, 20 or 30 years ago?” The study maintains a core set of 209 survey questions, covering crucial areas such as personal spirituality, church involvement, family and educational influences and pressing issues like mental health and lifestyle choices. Additionally, VG4 introduces new areas of inquiry to reflect emerging societal trends and concerns, including online activity, mental well-being and global awareness.

The insights gained from VG4 are precious for church leaders and members. They offer a mirror reflecting our youth’s current state and guide us in shaping more engaging, supportive and relevant educational, spiritual and family environments. The project underscores the importance of our collective role in fostering a faith community where young people feel understood, valued and inspired.

An official website has been launched, giving church members direct access to the project’s findings. The team is actively publishing the results online and is preparing a detailed report to be released soon. This report will offer an in-depth analysis of the current state of our youth’s faith and lifestyle, highlighting how these have evolved over the last 30 years. Visit the Valuegenesis website at FaithInstitution.org.

By Chang-Ho Ji, Ph.D.

Valuegenesis Principal Investigator and La Sierra University Dean of School of Education