Weekly Outlook - You have youth. They just aren't in your pews.

Dear readers, Failure is rarely the end of the story. Sometimes the plan falls apart. The opportunity disappears. The thing we worked toward simply doesn’t work. And sometimes, what comes next surprises us: a second chance, an unexpected discovery, a little humor, a lot of grace. For our February issue, the Presbyterian Outlook is inviting readers to tell us about those moments — and the faith that carries us forward when things don’t go according to plan. We’re looking for short, creative narratives of 250 words or less. Tell us about disappointment, resilience, failure, discovery, grace or the unexpected gift you found in starting again. Submit your story by November 1, 2026. We can’t wait to read what you share. Peace, Rose Schrott Taylor Digital Content Editor Presbyterian Outlook  P.S. Join Outlook Book Review Editor Amy Pagliarella on Monday at 1 p.m. ET for an overview of the best Advent resources to consider. Learn more and register.  Explore our digital, daily Advent devotional along with a long list of easy-to-use liturgies.

You have youth. They just aren’t in your pews. by Phillip Blackburn When ruling elders preside at Communion by Joel Moody What are our worship songs teaching us? by Shea Watts  Join us Monday for a tour of Advent resources with Amy Pagliarella

In case you missed it... Board of Pensions launches resources and support for Post-Retirement Medical Plan transition Engagement opportunities are being offered over the next few weeks. — By Board of Pensions Communing without bread For Christians with eating disorders, communion can bring anxiety alongside grace. Rachel Sutphin asks how churches can make Christ’s welcome tangible for everyone at the table. A new season at UPSem: Entering class grows 45% Union Presbyterian Seminary is welcoming a growing student body this fall as students begin a new academic year across its Richmond and Charlotte campuses. — UPS Collaborative youth ministry: One model in Oregon  Sean P. Williams and Kate Satterstrom share how four churches built a collaborative youth ministry that has thrived for nine years. Leadership spaces for young Presbyterians Six ways young Presbyterians are finding leadership roles beyond their church. — Mary Mabry A church worthy of Gen Z Teri McDowell Ott argues that instead of trying to "figure out" Gen Z, churches should ask what kind of church is worthy of their trust. Meryl Streep as Narnia’s Aslan: Why some evangelicals call it blasphemy News that Streep will play Aslan in "Narnia: The Magician's Nephew" has sparked casting debates similar to those over "The Odyssey." But for evangelicals, the concerns go deeper than culture wars. — Bob Smietana

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