mega-churches as mirror or megaphone (vs. the answer or the problem)

A very helpful piece on megachurches-- and how to see them-- from the CT editorialists...

Though often defined as a church with more than 2,000 in worship attendance, the "megachurch" is more than that. It's that more that attracts so much controversy....

...the latest Leadership Network study reveals not much new for those who are familiar with the megachurch. Among other findings, megachurch attenders are

• younger (young and single adults are more attracted to megachurches than to smaller churches);
• transient (nearly two-thirds have been in these churches for fewer than five years); and
• passive (45 percent of them never volunteer at church).

Yet here's the truth of the matter: While the megachurch has some unique dynamics, most medium-sized and smaller churches in America are not that much different in demographics. It's not as if no young people attend smaller churches, or as if every member of a smaller church is an active volunteer! And many a smaller church chases after "strategies and programs" that can "meet spiritual needs" and "multiply effectiveness."

As it turns out, the megachurch is like a megaphone. It is not so much an aberrant form of church as a large, flashing icon of the American church....