Get the most out of your Inc. online experience by registering and joining the Inc. community today. Get access to all Inc.com content and priority invites to free Inc. networking events in your area.

Login using:


Or login directly through Inc.com

Consecrated Commerce

The rise of the multimillion-dollar megachurch.

By Tahl Raz | 
 

Seen

Spirituality is a growth industry. And nothing illustrates that better than the burgeoning crop of colossal sanctuaries sprouting up in suburbs across the land. Having experienced explosive growth over the past decade, these mostly nondenominational megachurches are employing decidedly entrepreneurial practices. Slick marketing, high-tech production values, and a practical message have created a product that plays well to today's fickle churchgoer. Megachurches -- defined as congregations with more than 2,000 members -- number close to 600 in the United States. Senior minister Bob Russell of Southeast Christian Church preaches to some 15,000 people on an average weekend. Russell's church, which is located in Louisville on a sprawling 110-acre facility, has a yearly budget of more than $18 million. For Russell, the marriage of media and ministry is a natural. "It would be wrong for the church not to use every technological advantage to spread the gospel," he says.

Incubator

High Concept
Doctor, Doctor. Give Me the News
Any Place, Any Times
Grind to a Halt
The Fine Print

Dossier
All the President's Mail

Search
InfoPosse

Main Street
God is in the Detailing

Markets
The Surprise Economy

Seen
Consecrated Commerce

60-Second Business Plan
Veggie-Burger Kings

Business for Sale
Want a Novel Idea?

Please e-mail your comments to editors@inc.com.