Since I’ll soon be beginning an appointment at a much larger congregation, I have found myself reading more about the unique opportunities and challenges within megachurches.  Scott Thumma & Warren Bird have released a new study which you can find here (h/t Todd Rhodes @ MondayMorningInsight).

Todd summarizes several changes that have taken place over the last three years including:

• Growth without adding seats
• More satellite campuses and off-site worship
• More intentional training for ministers and ministerial candidates
• Growing emphasis on small groups
• More interest in social justice and outreach

He also shares a few things that have remained roughly the same:

• Contemporary worship styles
• Strong outreach and programming
• Continued growth
• Continued strong finances

I’m curious what will change in the next three years in these influential congregations.  Primarily, I can foresee the current financial situation in our country may start to have an impact on these congregations.