66 percent of young adults are searching for meaning and purpose in their lives.

And 62 percent considered themselves “spiritual” although almost  80 percent said they never attend church, or only attend once in a while.

The normal reaction would be to try and usher these young adults looking for meaning to the front door of their local church.

But United Methodist Church is doing the opposite.  They are promoting the back door into the church.

The UMC is launching a $20 million campaign this month to try and connect that desire for purpose and actual outlets to make a difference in a person’s circle of influence.

Through their PR, events and a television ad campaign, they are pushing the 18-34 year olds to the 10,000 doors website which is a portal for social gospel and other volunteer oppportunities worldwide (complete with a Google Maps mashup to visually find projects in your neighborhood). (more…)