Turning Off SNS and Heading to the Monastery: Why U.S. Gen Z Is Embracing the Nun Life [The World is Z-Gold]

Focusing on Authentic Living
Nun-Hosted Podcasts Draw Attention
"Reflecting Inward Rather Than Seeking Outside Approval"

Editor's Note
The Generation Z demographic—those born from the late 1990s to the early 2010s—is being recognized as a generation that leads culture and trends while forging new standards across society in this rapidly changing era. In [The World is Z-Gold], we delve into the lifestyles and values of Generation Z around the globe, exploring how they are transforming the world.

Recently, an increasing number of young people overseas are either visiting monasteries or enjoying podcasts hosted by nuns. This seems less about rising religious interest and more about a longing for an authentic and calm approach to life.

From Birds to Nuns: Shifting Interests of Generation Z

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Recently, HuffPost UK highlighted the 'Nun Girl Summer' trend, noting the surge of interest in monastery experiences and nun-hosted podcasts. The outlet reported, "While there are trends typical of young people among Generation Z nowadays, there are also surprising developments, such as the birdwatching craze and a growing fascination with nuns. In the past, 'Hot Girl Summer' symbolized the season's trend, but this year, the mood is completely different, as 'Nun Girl Summer' is catching everyone's attention."

This trend borrows its name from 'Hot Girl Summer,' a song by American rapper Megan Thee Stallion, but its message is distinctly different. While 'Hot Girl Summer' urges people to enjoy the summer with confidence and a free spirit, 'Nun Girl Summer' encourages focusing inward rather than seeking approval from others, and urges people to embrace their true selves throughout the season. This phenomenon appears to reflect a desire to pursue a simpler life, free from the fatigue brought on by social networking service (SNS) use.

Unfiltered Conversation Resonates: Nun Podcasts Gain Popularity

Sister Miriam Holtzman appeared on the podcast 'Dominican Sisters Open Mic.' Instagram

Against this backdrop, podcasts hosted by nuns have become increasingly popular with young listeners. The podcast 'Dominican Sisters Open Mic,' run by American Catholic nuns, went viral earlier this year after its videos spread on TikTok.

Hosted by 44-year-old Sister Miriam Holzman, the podcast features discussions with other nuns on life, education, and the reasons behind their faith. In a particularly viral segment, when Sister Miriam asked another nun about her hobbies, the nun replied, "I don't have any hobbies. Hobbies just feel like work to me. I just like spending time with people and talking." This honest admission, freeing listeners from the pressure to have hobbies, resonated with many people.

As the podcast gained attention online, its popularity soared. According to Spotify data, the program's listenership rose by more than 3,500% from February through the end of June. Millennials and Gen Z accounted for 84% of its audience.

Gen Z, Weary of SNS Fatigue, Seek 'Life As It Is'

Sister and theologian Gemma Simmonds cited the "fatigue of endless choices and the fear of missing out (FOMO)" as the reason young people are now interested in the lives of nuns. Simmonds explained, "The regular rhythm of prayer, work, and community—and a lifestyle that isn’t centered around consumption—actually gives us a sense of liberation, not restriction." She added, "This shows the desire among young people to escape constant scrutiny and the relentless pressure for self-improvement."

Simmonds further noted that the sincere lifestyle of nuns is winning empathy among young people. She said, "Nuns do not need to put on a persona in front of the camera. We believe we are already ‘marvelously and beautifully created’ beings. If you believe that, you don’t have to wait for acceptance—whether it’s about your looks, your voice, or how others judge you."

Simmonds offered four practical suggestions for embracing 'Nun Girl Summer': focus on the present moment, spend at least one hour a day away from smartphones and digital devices, maintain a regular routine rather than being swayed by moods, and build genuine, lasting relationships. She especially emphasized, "It's important not just to think about what's next, but to appreciate the present moment."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.