I once heard it said that the Millennia Generation, Generation Y, those born from 1984 to 2002, could be dubbed the Mosaic Generation. The persons in this generation have a special connection. This connection is due to shared similar tragedies and crises. They have been faced with more of, everything, really than the generations that have come before.
Alone they are broken shards with ragged edges, pieces of something that use to be. However, when connected, when placed with others like them, they come together and form an unusual, but beautiful picture.
While h.e.a.r.t. welcomes students of any age, it has been a trend over the last decade to attract predominately college age students. So, this begs the question, is Gen. Y ready for the mission field?! I would answer emphatically NO. There is, however, hope.
My generation, Generation X, those born from 1965 to 1983, as described by Tim Elmore in the book, Generation iY, sees the hurt and suffering in the world and thinks, “I can endure it” while Generation Y says “I can change it.” Elmore goes on to say that Gen. Y students learn by experience and are driven to learn what is relative for life. To Gen. Y, hurt and pain are relative and they want to change it. So, how can we help?
Elmore explains the best way to help the future of this generation is to help them recognize their vocation and discover their strengths and passions in order to engage the world around them.
The word vocation is taken from the same root word vocal, meaning calling. Students at h.e.a.r.t. are given opportunities to learn through relevant experience. It is our passion to equip Christian workers with the tools to empower the poor and hungry; to recognize their calling and apply it globally. If asked the question “are h.e.a.r.t. students ready for the mission field?”, I would answer a resounding YES!!!!
post by Faith Gallian