I was talking to a future church planter via email and mentioned several of the US’ largest and most influential churches that I’ve been able to visit and he asked about the pros/cons of each.
I thought it would be good to post this out and see if anyone else would share the same opinions or have any others about these churches.
Saddleback:
Pros |
- Great atmosphere that encourages community (tables everywhere, open air seating with view of stage and video outside, wireless inet everywhere on campus)
- Was greeted at least 8 times before entering the building.
- Solid worship, great preaching.
- Built on purpose, not personality
- great small group structure
Cons | can’t think of any right now.
Willowcreek:
Pros |
- The most creative place I’ve been to
- Engages every sense (including smell)
- Every weekend is an event
- Use venues as a way to provide various worship experiences.
Cons |
- didn’t give an opportunity for salvation every service (however, they rely upon their congregation to do this.
Fellowship Church:
Pros |
- Creative atmosphere
- Trendiest church I’ve been to
- Very visual
- great music and videos
- Allows anonymity
- Great bookstore and cafe
- Great marketing strategy (place website on everything and promote events creatively)
Cons |
- Seemed to be built on Ed’s personality
- By allowing anonymity, it appeared harder to connect
Lifechurch.tv
Pros |
- This was my favorite place
- best balance of creativity and the gospel
- Compelling invitation at each service.
- Uses video venue on a multi-campus level
- Allowed anonymity, however there were several people who were very cordial and helped with any questions.
- They had McCallisters sweet tea and other snacks for everyone before service
Cons |
- can’t think of any other than the tea wasn’t that sweet, oh and Craig wasn’t there… I really wanted to just shake his hand, but the campus pastor that spoke did a great job.