Old Pianos, the Uncanny Valley, and Gen Z

I have an old upright piano that I love to play. Miraculously, after moving it several times, it has managed to hold a decent tune, but it is by no means perfect. My husband has asked me several times throughout the years if I want to “upgrade” to a digital piano, but I always refuse. I prefer the sound of the slightly out-of-tune melodies. It reminds me of learning to play as a child on the old piano at my church. To me, music feels more comforting when a few imperfections come through.

It’s not just my music that I prefer to be less than perfect. I love hands with wrinkles and callouses, old houses with creaky staircases, slightly burnt toast, and those weird-shaped strawberries. Truthfully, I get uneasy when things are too perfect; and I am not alone.

Something isn’t quite right.

Have you heard of the Uncanny Valley? It’s the phenomenon that describes the nervous feeling you get when you see something that is almost human but not quite. This term has been around since the 1970’s, but with recent advancements in technology and the rise of AI, the Uncanny Valley phenomenon has become a topic of discussion one again.

I first became aware of the Uncanny Valley effect when my kids were young, and we watched The Polar Express one Christmas. I had heard for years that this was a Christmas classic, but the movie unnerved my kids and they declared that it was “creepy”. At the risk of angering fans of this beloved film, I agree with my kids – there is something weird about the animation of the movie. It’s the same feeling I get when I watch Marvel or Star Wars movies and they de-age an actor for a flashback scene – it is technically good, but something seems off about it. Somehow, my brain detects that what I am seeing is not completely genuine.

The more I read about (and experience) the Uncanny Valley the more I think this phenomenon can also be detected in church. Sometimes, in our pursuit for excellence, we inadvertently turn out an atmosphere that is too produced and too polished. When our services, programs, and interactions become too perfect, they often lose their authenticity (which is the very thing people are looking for).

A generation looking for what’s real.

At a recent world missions conference, I found myself in a discussion group with some leaders from around the country talking about Gen-Z’s current involvement in their mission’s organization. I was surprised to learn that they have seen a recent increase in Gen-Z adults (ages 18-27) diving into long-term world missions. This took me by surprise because statistics consistently show that Generation Z is the least-churched generation yet. In fact, ​one-third of Gen Z claims to have no religious affiliation​ and ​over half say that religion is not an important part of their lives​. How is it possible that this religiously apathetic, un-churched segment of our population is out-pacing millennials in their commitment to global missions? I believe it’s because, although today’s young adults are less likely to identify as Christian than previous generations, a higher percent of those who are Christian want to put their faith into action. Why? Because, since birth, Gen Z has been fed a diet of digitally manufactured experiences and many of them are longing for something authentic – life experiences that are meaningful.

Keeping it Real.

There are a few things we can do to keep our church environments from becoming contrived.

1. Focus on authenticity and not perfection. I’ve been a part of churches that would talk about “excellence over perfection” but, when it came down to it, their definition of “excellence” looked no different than perfection. This generation appreciates vulnerability, so when a church community embraces imperfection, it creates a space where everyone feels welcome to be themselves. Reach for what is do-able and practical for your team and then do it to the best of your abilities. When mistakes happen (and they will!), respond with grace and humility. Personally, I am thankful that the Lord’s ability to work is not dependent on my team’s ability to turn on a microphone at exactly the right moment or display the worship lyrics with perfect synchronicity.

2. Ditch the Social Media Comparison. Social media can distort reality. It's important for church leaders to remember that what we see online is often just a highlight reel. A 30-second Tik-Tok or Instagram video has been intentionally chosen to highlight the best moments from the weekend. Gen Z is aware of this—and they appreciate transparency. Healthy pastors are in tune with how to best minister to the people God has placed in their communities – so get your marching orders from Him. If our goal is to look like, sound like, and preach like the mega-churches that we see online then we may miss the calling that God has placed on our ministries.

3. Laugh. Ministry can be challenging, but laughter is a powerful antidote to stress. Gen Z thrives in environments that balance seriousness with humor. The most refreshing moments in life happen when we embrace the unexpected with humor. Sometimes we get weighed down by the burdens of ministry and forget that there can be so much joy in serving Jesus. Take the serious things seriously but then take time to laugh at the little things that are beyond our control. When laughter is part of our ministry, it shows that faith doesn’t have to be somber; it can be vibrant and full of joy.

What we leave behind.

This generation is looking for spaces where they can be real, connect genuinely, and experience joy in their faith journey. When people are presented with something real they know it. As pastors and leaders of the church, it’s our job to make sure that what we are offering them is genuine, honest, and purposeful. And what is more real than a life-changing encounter with the Living God? Church trends come and go, but the Gospel is the most authentic thing we can offer those who are coming through our doors. Let’s not give our lives to building a brand or a movement. Instead, let’s become a part of the faithful army of Christ, warring for a Kingdom that cannot be shaken.

Alicia Osgood

P.S. We assist with coaching, training, strategy, and support.

#1: Need help with implementation? Reach out to us at info@threefold.solutions or contact us here.

#2: Want to learn more? Subscribe to our YouTube Channel.

#3: Stay in the know with our weekly newsletter, The Fold. Each week we discuss topics on church growth and management, volunteer and staff engagement, leadership development, and more.