There’s an interesting piece in the NYT about a trend of megachurches getting involved in local economies as part of their outreach. From real estate to shopping centers to housing to sports arenas, more and more churches are consciously expanding into the business realm. The article nicely summarizes the positive aspects of this (boosts the local economy, makes the church a more integral component of the community, fits into community outreach efforts) as well as the downsides (confusion over tax status, concern over church-and-state issues).
I’ve always liked the idea of a church as an active, contributing member of its community, rather than a closed-off mini-community that keeps to itself—so the idea of a church being involved in local business doesn’t bother me. But still, with the sheer scale of the economics involved (millions of dollars, in many cases), one hopes that these churches are proceeding with as much discernment and accountability as possible.
What do you think? Does your church have extensive ties to the business community, and if so, how has that aided or hindered its ministry? How does your church understand its role in the local community?
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December 6, 2007 at 10:34
The church I used to attend in Indiana (Muncie Alliance Church) runs a coffee roasting business as well. I felt like nearly every week we would hear stories about how the pastor or some other person in the church was able to connect with individuals because of that business.
December 6, 2007 at 17:11
My philosophy is.. I didn’t come to take sides, I came to take over. I love the idea of the church owning businesses in the community. I hope that each business that run by a church makes a huge impact on everyone that comes through the door. Sometimes we can not get everyone who needs to come to church, so what better way then to run the businesses in the community and bring the church to them. I am a member of a Megachurch, and regardless of what the senator says with his probe, I know and see what my pastor, Bishop Eddie Long does for the community. If the government wanted to learn how to manage money they should have just asked.
December 9, 2007 at 21:33
I am seeing this trend too.
I am torn. It could either be a really great thing or it could be very very distracting.
Ive watched non-profits and churches get pulled into fund raising using MLM/Network Marketing tactics and it is an ugly thing.
My concern would be that the church would lose its focus.
I am not as learned as I could be about the bible. Is there any examples of the church running businesses?