By Carmen M. Hubbard

SIDNEY DEANERY — Bigger isn’t always better. Contemporary is no comparison to tradition. A spiritual mission cannot supersede religious doctrine.

Nevertheless, parishioners north of Dayton recently attended a workshop to learn the appeal of mega-churches and if parishes should adopt their practices.

"I think it’s better to get an understanding of something," presenter Ted Bergh said. "Mega-churches are extremely successful. I can at least tell you what’s happening and why it’s successful."

COURTESY PHOTO

Ted Bergh

Nearly 50 people representing 20 parishes attended the program hosted by the archdiocesan Office of Evangelization and Catechesis (OEC) in Sidney.

"We have a couple of nondenominational churches in the area," said Jane Pierron, regional director of the OEC. "They are attracting a lot of young adults ages 18-20. Pastors and parish leaders talk about what it is that we can do."

"They perform a very good service to people who have no church," Bergh said.

He cited author Rick Warren and his mega-church in Southern California as well as those locally. Most were formed based on marketing strategies to attract people who don’t attend church.

"We don’t evangelize very well and always took care of people who are already Catholic," Bergh said.

But in a consumer media culture of Generation Xs and Ys, marketing a church is no different than any other product to attract thousands or tens of thousands. According to Bergh, local mega-churches were founded by Procter & Gamble marketing executives, not ministers.

These churches created their own creed and don’t require ministers, Bergh said. They also encourage people to believe as they like from Scriptures and sermons.

Parishioners responded with a resounding "no" to incorporating the ways of the Protestant-influenced nondenominational stadium seating, with pastors who encourage people to draw their own conclusions.

"It’s empty entertainment," said Alyssa DeMange of North Star, who attended the workshop with her husband, Jake.

However, people agreed that something needs to be done to keep young adults involved.

"The message needs to be presented in a contemporary fashion," said a Sidney resident, who didn’t want to be identified. "The church has constantly changed to meet the needs of people. Young people today (want you) to meet them where they are."