When news outlets publish frequent think pieces on why younger generations leave religion in droves, part of the story is left behind — spiritual communities burgeoning and thriving with Gen Z and millennials.
That story was on display when thousands of young single adults came to downtown Salt Lake City for a weekend of spiritual devotionals, a concert headlined by Ben Rector, Rachel Platten and Emma Nissen, service projects, games and dances.
It was the 2024 Utah YSA conference — a two-day event aimed at cultivating a sense of belonging in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as strengthening faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Attendees said seeing so many young Latter-day Saints in the same area was heartening. The event culminates with a Sunday devotional from Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles.
“I think one of the things that’s neat about this conference is seeing so many people being brothers and sisters in Christ and coming together,” said Victoria Vincent.