A major nation-wide project of the Episcopal Communicators Network in the United States is challenging parishes about the way they are catering for the needs of young people. "Stand up for Youth" looks at how to help young people, adults and churches face the stresses of modern teen life.

The simple answer is that adults must become more involved in the lives of young people, and treat them as full members of Christ's body. Simple, but not easy. Many adults are much better at talking about teenagers than actually talking with them.

"My own experience has taught me that congregations don't necessarily think through the theology of a child and what it means for a child to have a relationship to God and what their relationship is to the congregation," said Revd Robyn Szoke, co-ordinator of children's ministries at the Episcopal Church Center.

Recent school shootings have shocked many into asking what is missing in the lives of young people that they can turn to violence so easily. "Stand up for Youth" has demonstrated that if adults get involved with teenagers, take their views seriously, and build relationships based on trust and respect, it can make all the difference.

"Alienated youths are often asking questions and not finding someone willing to probe the questions with them," said Betsy Boyd, who co-ordinates youth ministries at the Episcopal Church Center. "They deeply want to know who is God, what purpose does he have in my life?"