I got a call the other day from a mega youth movement in our city. They were inviting me to an end of school rally. I appreciated the call and thanked him. A few days later I received another call inviting me to the same event. I had been thinking about mega-churches and mega youth movements and their responsibility to the rest of the body of believers within the community.
Mega churches are, dynamically, like Wal-Mart. When a Wal-Mart moves into a community , it has an adverse effect on mom and pop stores, usually resulting in them closing. Mega-churches have a similar effect. I define a mega church or youth ministry of over 100, since the average church congregation is about 100. Wal-Mart has no responsibility to mom and pop stores, but what if they did? What if they shared marketing secrets or better customer service tips? This would level the playing field to some degree and then it would be up to those owners to change to get a chance to compete within the market place.
What if Mega-Churches or groups did the same? Rather than gutting our youth ministries or young adult programs and saying too bad, teach us how to thrive. Now, I know the mega’s have events that equip the body. They host larger speakers, conferences, and concerts that smaller groups could not afford. That certainly helps, but there are some other things I’d like to see them do.
I’d like to see mega movement youth leaders and youth pastors
- Join a local network- Many times these leaders will say they do not have time. Bunk! Come hang out with us.
- Teach us something- Share what you know with us. Teach us how to draw students or have an awesome camp.
- Partner with us- Bring your awesome drama team or band to our group.
- Reach out to us- I want to hear from you, not your people. Mega groups draw criticism because of isolationism. Break down the walls.