50 Most Influential Churches in America
- Published Aug 01, 2005
According to a recent survey, these are the 50 most influential churches in America. The article contains pictures of most of the pastors. My favorite is Bishop Eddie Long (# 30) of New Birth Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia. No surprise to discover that Saddleback is # 1 and Willowcreek is # 2. Among the top ten, I had never heard of "Church of the Resurrection" in Leawood, Kansas. Come to think of it, I've never heard of Leawood, Kansas. Two father-son duos made the list. Charles and Andy Stanley pastor different churches in Atlanta, while Ed Young, Sr. and Jr. made the list for churches in Houston and Dallas, respectively. The article contains fascinating tidbits about churches and pastors that did and did not make the list, including the First Baptist Church of Hammond, Indiana, made famous by Jack Hyles. Several of the churches that made the list are turnarounds, churches that were dying until a new pastor came and brought new vision, new life, and ultimately new growth. The article certainly offers great hope the future of church growth in America.
On July 1, Harvest House released my newest book, The Healing Power of Forgiveness.)
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