“Holy Empires” – 18 Megachurches Under Fire for Amassing Millions and Exploiting American Faith

Gabriel RomanOct 29, 2023

Minute Read

Picture this: It’s a Sunday, and streets are teeming with folks not waiting for a movie premiere or a new donut joint opening. Instead, they’re bustling to get a seat in churches. But not just any churches – we’re talking about mammoth, sprawling, bigger-than-your-average-football-stadium kind of churches. Are they just big buildings, or is there more to the story? Let’s find out!

Saddleback Church – The California Dream of Worship

Set in the picturesque surroundings of Lake Forest, California, Saddleback Church isn’t just a place of worship but a community hub. An impressive 20,000 individuals grace its doors every week, largely due to the vision of Rick Warren. Known for its Purpose Driven Life philosophy, the church emphasizes missions and service, making it a global outreach powerhouse.

Gateway Church – The Texan Spiritual Station

Southlake, Texas, boasts more than just cowboy hats and barbecue – enter Gateway Church. Attracting roughly 30,000 worshipers weekly, this spiritual hub is a testament to unwavering faith. With roots deeply planted in scripture, they prioritize heartfelt worship, teaching sessions, and some intense prayer gatherings.

The Vibrant Pulse of North Point Ministries

Ever been to Alpharetta, Georgia? If not, North Point Ministries might be why you book a trip. Playing host to 30,000 dedicated attendees, the church focuses on the heart of Christianity. With Andy Stanley’s insightful sermons, there’s a concerted effort to bridge the gap between traditional beliefs and present-day life challenges.

Willow Creek Community Church – Illinois’s Pride

Illinois houses more than just the Windy City. With its 25,000 weekly members, Willow Creek Community Church is where tradition meets the 21st century. Established by Bill Hybels, the church places a hefty emphasis on reaching out, not just within but beyond its walls. They encourage the flock to channel efforts into community betterment and charitable initiatives.

Elevation Church – Reaching for the Heavens in North Carolina

North Carolina’s got a gem, and it’s not just its barbecue! Elevation Church in Charlotte is a testament to modern-day worship. It has roughly 25,000 individuals each week, and each of them follows the dynamic leadership of Steven Furtick. The church is known for its electrifying music, digital outreach, and commitment to scriptural truths.

Life.Church – Where Tech Meets Tradition

Digital age, meet faith! Life. Church, based out of Edmond, Oklahoma, is where tradition gets a techy twist. With a staggering 30,000 weekly attendees, Craig Groeschel’s brainchild is a leader in the digital faith revolution. Their free Bible app, innovative online services, and commitment to spreading the gospel via technology sets them apart.

West Angeles – The L.A. Star with Spiritual Luster

Among L.A.’s glitz and glamour sits West Angeles Church of God in Christ, a spiritual behemoth. Drawing 22,000 members, this institution proudly upholds its Pentecostal roots. The sermons here often go into the workings of the Holy Spirit and its transformative power in our daily lives.

Christ Fellowship – Florida’s Cozy Spiritual Corner

If you visit the sun-kissed shores of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, then you might stumble upon Christ Fellowship. A sanctuary for 30,000 seekers, the church, under the guidance of Todd and Julie Mullins, is a haven of familial warmth. With a diverse range of programs for every age group, it truly is a home away from home.

Southeast Christian Church – The Gospel Straight from Kentucky’s Heart

Bluegrass country, Louisville, Kentucky, has more than horse races and baseball bats – it has Southeast Christian Church. With 22,000 devoted believers, this establishment takes pride in its straightforward approach to the gospel. Here, it’s about digging deep into the Bible, understanding its core, and living a life reflective of its teachings.

Lakewood Church – Where Houston Finds Hope

Amidst Houston’s skyline stands Lakewood Church, a beacon of hope. With the melodic tones of Joel Osteen drawing 52,000 attendees weekly, the church isn’t just about sermons. It’s a comprehensive experience that looks at wellness, self-improvement, and harnessing faith to navigate life’s ups and downs.

Dream City Church – Phoenix’s Spiritual Beacon

Phoenix, Arizona’s Dream City Church is more than just four walls and a steeple. It’s a safe haven for 22,000 weekly attendees. The genius behind this place, Tommy Barnett, envisioned a space that served beyond Sunday sermons. Driven by passion, the church actively engages in community outreach, offering a hand to those in need and amplifying genuine service.

Second Baptist Church – Houston’s House of Unity

The Second Baptist Church is an example of grandeur and unity in the heart of Houston, Texas. The name alone conjures images of something vast and impressive, and trust us, it doesn’t disappoint! Around 26,000 souls find solace in its traditional worship every week, cherishing age-old hymns and teachings. But it’s the genuine warmth that keeps people coming back for more!

Central Christian Church – Las Vegas’s Sanctuary Amidst the Glitz

Las Vegas might be known for its glitzy casinos and sleepless nights, but Central Christian Church offers a different thrill. This spiritual haven draws in 21,000 believers every Sunday, looking for a space that radiates grace and unconditional love. Central Christian stands as a lighthouse in the neon lights and poker chips, guiding believers toward faith.

The Rock Church – San Diego’s Soulful Spot

Nestled in sunny San Diego, The Rock Church is a journey, not a pitstop. Welcoming 19,000 members, the establishment stands tall under the leadership of Miles McPherson. The church emphasizes the importance of integrating spiritual teachings into daily life, ensuring every moment feels divinely inspired.

Fellowship Church – Texas’s Heartbeat of Unity

Grapevine, Texas, proudly hosts the Fellowship Church, a radiant gem that beckons 24,000 believers weekly. With Ed Young at the helm, this isn’t your everyday church. It’s a fusion of age-old traditions with contemporary nuances. There’s a deliberate effort to rejuvenate worship, infusing creativity into each service and making every prayer session feel fresh.

Redemption – South Carolina’s Spiritual Makeover Studio

Standing proudly in San Jose, South Carolina, Redemption boosts a strong congregation of 21,000 members. The church is a beacon of change under the guidance of Ron Carpenter. His philosophy is profound, focusing on deep-rooted transformation. It’s a space where believers are encouraged to evolve, rediscovering themselves through Christ’s grace, one day at a time.

Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale – Florida’s Spiritual Workshop

Down in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Calvary Chapel is an institution of faith. It engages 20,000 members and counting under the watchful eye of Bob Coy. What sets it apart is its commitment to in-depth, expositional teaching. Every scripture is dissected, every message analyzed, ensuring believers leave with a deeper understanding of their faith.

The Potter’s House – Dallas’s Hub of Spiritual Evolution

T.D. Jakes’ vision, The Potter’s House in Dallas, Texas, is nothing short of colossal. This sanctuary commands respect and admiration from a congregation of 30,000 and is a testament to spiritual growth. It focuses on helping believers recognize their potential, and the church is a melting pot of people finding their path under the gentle guidance of a higher power.