You are invited to a Youthworks Theology Think Tank
'When Young People Leave Church: An Australian perspective' Research Presentation and Workshop
Speaker – Dr Ruth Lukabyo BA hons, BTh, Dip Min, PhD
The study examines recent trends in church disengagement, the reasons behind disaffiliation, and the spiritual and religious attitudes of young people today.
- Why do young people leave church?
- What do they believe after they leave?
- Is there a difference between adolescents and young adults?
About our speaker
Dr Ruth Lukabyo is a Sydney-based historian and practical theologian whose work is especially valuable for youth ministers seeking to ground their ministry more deeply in Scripture. Teaching at Youthworks College, she encourages leaders to move beyond program-driven models and, instead, shape every aspect of youth ministry around clear theological convictions. Alongside her historical research into earlier evangelical movements in Sydney, Ruth has also explored why many young people disengage from church, helping ministers think more carefully about faith formation, belonging, and long-term discipleship. Her work highlights the importance of peer-led ministry, deep biblical teaching, and integrating young people into the whole church community. Together, these insights challenge youth ministers to see their role not just as running activities, but as forming resilient disciples, equipping young leaders, and partnering with families to sustain faith beyond the teenage years.
Ruth completed her doctorate through Macquarie university, "From a Ministry for Youth to a Ministry of Youth, Aspects of Protestant youth ministry in Sydney, 1930-1959".
Ruth is the Dean of Students and Manager of Research at Youthworks College.
She is the editor of "Australian Evangelical Perspectives on Youth Ministry" and has published in various books and journals. Ruth is an executive member of the International Association of Youth Ministry and the Evangelical History Association and is Assistant Editor of the journal, Lucas
Date: Thursday 11 June
Time: 5:00pm - 8:30pm
Venue: Youthworks College - 16 Carillon Ave Newtown
Format:
5:00pm - Doors open
5:30-6:30pm - First session – research presentation
6:30-7:15pm - Dinner
7:15-8:30pm - Second session - workshop