Getting high school students interested in theology sounds like a pretty tall order. In the age of “nones” and “dones” and continuing declines in religious adherence, younger generations have been identified with a less-is-more attitude toward faith. But that assumption is getting some pushback from organizations convinced that youth would embrace theology when it’s proven to have practical and meaningful applications in their lives. “What’s causing teens to disengage from churches? It’s not the faith, but it’s the church,” said Brian Foreman, an adjunct professor at Campbell University Divinity School in Buies Creek, N.C., where he teaches about Christian education and church leadership.In an effort to provide that space, the Lilly Endowment, Inc., has given more than $44 million in grants to more than 90 colleges, universities and divinity schools for four-year High School Youth Theology Institutes.

Lilly Foundation grants encourage youth to enter theological studies.