One of the Most Secular Nations on Earth Is Quietly Returning to Christ
New Zealand Sees Quiet Revival as Baptist Youth Attendance Surges 24 Percent
New Zealand, one of the most secular nations in the Western world, is experiencing what church leaders are calling a "Quiet Revival" among young people.
According to the 2025 Annual Report for Baptist Churches of New Zealand, youth attendance increased 24% between 2022 and 2024. Easter Camps grew 42% between 2023 and 2025. Over 710 baptisms were reported in Baptist churches in 2024, with 58% (411) under age 25 and the majority under 18.
Ethan Miller, Youth Catalyst for Baptist Churches of New Zealand, referenced the Bible Society's "Quiet Revival" report, published April 2025, which documented a surprising surge in Gen Z church attendance across parts of the Western world.
Gen Z Leads Surprising Resurgence in Church Attendance Across the Western World
However, leaders are cautious. Miller noted that youth ministry resources are
50 to 60% lower than a decade ago. Census data still shows that "no religion" is the fastest growing category in New Zealand, growing 14% from 2018 to 2023 while the total population grew 6.4%. The revival is real but fragile, and desperately in need of investment.
The Crusader's Opinion
The secularists declared God dead in New Zealand. The census numbers seemed to confirm it. And then, without fanfare, without celebrity endorsements, without a marketing campaign, young people started showing up. 24% increase. 42% growth at Easter Camps. 411 young people baptized in a single year. God is not dead in New Zealand. He is just working where the experts are not looking. The question is whether the Church will invest in this harvest or let it wither for lack of resources.
Take Action
- Share: Share this story of hope. The secular narrative says faith is dying. The data says otherwise.
- Donate: Support Baptist youth ministry in New Zealand. Resources are 50 to 60% lower than a decade ago.
- Pray: Pray for the Quiet Revival to deepen and spread. Pray for resources and leaders to sustain the growth.
- Act: Invest in the young people in your own church. The revival starts with the generation in front of you.
