Synod Stories 11: Gen Z Lutheran on Dating Crisis & Church Revival
About this episode
Ray Sexton discusses the dating crisis among Gen Z Lutherans and the need for church revival.
Ray Sexton is only 20 years old, but he sees the crisis clearly: his generation is struggling to date, marry, and form faithful Lutheran families. In this frank conversation, Ray shares his journey as a lifelong LCMS member in Springfield, Missouri, his plans for seminary, and why he believes the Lutheran Church needs a complete renovation. We discuss the cultural forces making Christian relationships nearly impossible, why three out of four confirmed Lutheran teens leave the church, and what it means to be a confessional Lutheran in a generation drowning in hookup culture and political extremes. Ray doesn't pull punches—he talks about ultra-conservative rabbit holes, the myth of congregational autonomy, and why the LCMS needs to stop hiding in its "little box." This episode offers a rare window into what young, thoughtful Lutherans are actually experiencing and thinking. Whether you're a parent, pastor, or just curious about the next generation of the LCMS, Ray's perspective will challenge and inform your understanding of where the church is heading.
People in this episode
Host: Brian Yamabe
Guest: Ray Sexton
Topics covered
- dating crisis
- church revival
- Gen Z
- Lutheranism
- faithful families
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: LCMS
Places: Springfield, Missouri
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