What are students being taught in Dallas area classrooms? How does social media shape their identity, relationships and worldview? Are young people rediscovering faith or drifting from the Church?
This was the focus of Council for Life’s Neighborhood Panel Discussion this past June.
The panel addressed what today’s youth are hearing and why these narratives influence relationships, pregnancy and human dignity.
Panelists included:
- Dan Bailey – Founder and CEO of Youth Equipped to Succeed (YES)
- Rev. Robby Higginbottom – Pastor of Community at Park Cities Presbyterian Church
- Dr. Ben Kirby – Director of Enrollment Management at Jesuit Dallas and Parenting and Technology Educator
- Lori Kuykendall – Executive Director of Operations for The Institute for Women’s Health
The conversation explored the cultural forces shaping today’s youth, from social media and entertainment to technology and messages about sex, relationships and family. The panelists emphasized the vital role of parents and the church in helping young people navigate these influences with truth and wisdom, while providing meaningful sex education rooted in morality, dignity and the value of every human life.
While teen pregnancy and sexual activity rates have declined, concerns remain, including rising STD rates, pornography, sexting and chemical abortion.
Above all, the message was clear: parents must stay engaged, setting healthy boundaries, fostering honest conversations and equipping the next generation to recognize cultural messages, understand their God-given dignity and make life-affirming choices.
Watch the Full Program
We are filled with appreciation for Dan Bailey, Rev. Robby Higginbottom, Dr. Ben Kirby and Lori Kuykendall who thoughtfully shared their wisdom and expertise with us.
We are also grateful to our event attendees and Council for Life donors. Thank you for being a bold, brave voice for the voiceless— the innocent unborn, each made in the image of and cherished by our Creator.
Special thanks to:
- Neighborhood Outreach Co-Chairs Ready Bateman and Linda Vandercook who planned and executed all the details of evening with such grace and excellence.
- Rev. Robby Higginbottom for his touching opening prayer
- Park Cities Presbyterian Church for their kind assistance and hosting us in their beautiful Fellowship Hall.
- Festive Kitchen and CEO Sandy Korem for generously donating delicious dinner for our guests.