The Propel Podcast

In this presentation, Cris Cazarine explores one of the most important challenges facing the church today: helping young adults stay connected, engaged, and thriving in their faith. Drawing from research, ministry experience, and countless conversations with young adults, she challenges common assumptions about what younger generations are really looking for from the church. Rather than focusing on programs, styles, or trends, she highlights the importance of meaningful relationships, belonging, mentorship, and authentic community. Cris shares practical insights into why so many young adults disconnect from church life and what churches can do to create environments where they feel valued, heard, and empowered. She also offers a compelling vision for involving young adults as active contributors and leaders rather than simply participants. Whether you're a pastor, church leader, parent, or mentor, this session provides valuable perspective on building a church culture that helps the next generation grow in faith and remain connected to the mission of the church.

Creators and Guests

Host
Larry Witzel
Respected innovator at intersection of technology and ministry. Marketing nerd. Computer geek. Founder of SermonView. Servant of God and friend to humankind.
CC
Guest
Cris Cazarine
Cris Cazarine serves as Director of Young Adult and Campus Ministries for the Carolina Conference, supporting young adults across North and South Carolina. With nearly 20 years in ministry and seven years as a pastor, she focuses on leadership development, training, and major ministry events. Cris planted The Vine SDA Church and later launched The Way Online Church to reach young adults digitally. She holds degrees from Southern Adventist University and Andrews University and is completing a Doctor of Ministry.

What is The Propel Podcast?

Welcome to the Propel Podcast, inspiration and innovation to grow your church, hosted by Larry Witzel. This podcast offers every presentation from the annual Propel Conference on church growth.

Our goal is to offer practical training for effective evangelism in the Seventh-day Adventist ministry context, but we know the principles we talk about here are applicable in many other churches, as well. So, wherever you’re doing ministry, welcome to the Propel Podcast!

The 2026 Propel Conference will be in Silver Spring, MD, April 12–15, 2026!