Pastor Jonathan Pokluda Affirms: Gen Z Is Still Committed to Jesus

Texas Pastor Shares Hope for Generation

A pastor from Texas has a strong message for those who view young people as lost causes. “They are not, and they are passionate about their faith in Christ,” he declared.

Pastor Jonathan Pokulda, who often speaks at college events, made this statement last week during a gathering where 5,000 students filled the Addition Financial Arena at the University of Central Florida. The evening was a mix of personal stories, teaching, and worship, leading to 1,600 students deciding to follow Christ and numerous baptisms. This rally was part of the “Unite US” movement, which started at Auburn University in the fall of 2023 and has since grown to include over 140,000 college students nationwide.

Pokulda, who leads Harris Creek Baptist Church in McGregor, Texas, addressed the crowd at UCF that night.

He later shared on social media that there’s a prevalent belief that this generation, often referred to as Gen Z, is beyond hope. “They’re too distracted, too addicted, too confused, too broken,” he noted. However, after witnessing the turnout and commitment that night, he feels quite the opposite: “This generation has not given up on Jesus.”

During the event, Pokulda and other speakers felt they witnessed God working in remarkable ways.

“More than 1,600 students have committed their lives to Christ,” he stated, emphasizing that the gospel holds true saving power, not just the excitement of the moment.

He recounted powerful stories that show the transformative nature of faith. One story involved a security guard who handed over his e-cigarette, not due to pressure, but out of a desire for freedom. Another involved a young woman on the brink of despair who found hope in Christ instead of in death. There was also a man who chose to end his double life to genuinely follow Jesus. “That’s what happens when Jesus steps in—chains are broken, and shame is washed away,” he explained.

Even after the service concluded, baptisms continued outside the stadium, with students openly sharing their faith and affirming their commitment to a new life under Christ’s leadership.

Pokulda urged people not to believe the narrative that this generation is lost. “They are searching. Starving. Desperate for truth,” he expressed. “When they hear the name of Jesus lifted high, they respond with enthusiasm. As far as I see, there’s no revival waiting to happen; it’s already unfolding.”

Looking ahead, there are at least four more Unite US events set for spring: in Pittsburgh on March 25, Florida on March 31, Sanford on April 8, and Oklahoma on April 28.