The Hartford study is out—and megachurches are not. According to new findings that show effective ministry to the masses, giant churches are flourishing with strong doctrine, abundant ministry, little political involvement, and programming that excites members to invite others.

The new survey, completed by Leadership Network and Hartford Seminary's Hartford Institute for Religion Research, estimates the number of megachurches to be more than 1,200—nearly double the number counted five years ago. For the survey, a megachurch was defined as a congregation with 2,000 or more members. Most averaged between 2,000 to 3,000 members.

This growth in megachurches is due to the culturally relevant model, according to Scott Thumma, professor of sociology of religion at Hartford Seminary and primary architect of the survey.

"I am absolutely convinced that megachurches have blossomed, at least in part, because they have responded creatively to the new needs and interests of people in a new cultural reality," Thumma said in a seminary newsletter. "There is much to learn from megachurches, and it isn't all about being big."

The new survey includes data on the many attributes that define the nature and impact of megachurches in North American society. Collectively, the results debunk 11 of the most common beliefs about megachurches, namely:

MYTH #1: All megachurches are alike.
REALITY: They differ in growth rates, size and emphasis.

MYTH #2: All megachurches are equally good at being big.
REALITY: Some clearly understand how to function as a large institution, but others flounder.

MYTH #3: There is an over-emphasis on money in the megachurches.
REALITY: The data disputes this.

MYTH #4: Megachurches exist for spectator worship and are not serious about Christianity.
REALITY: Megachurches generally have high spiritual expectations and serious orthodox beliefs.

MYTH #5: Megachurches are not deeply involved in social ministry.
REALITY: Considerable ministry is taking place at and through these churches.

MYTH #6: All megachurches are pawns of or powerbrokers to George Bush and the Republican Party.
REALITY: The vast majority of megachurches are not politically active.

MYTH #7: All megachurches have huge sanctuaries and enormous campuses.
REALITY: Megachurches make widespread use of multiple worship services over several days, multiple venues, and even multiple campuses.

MYTH #8: All megachurches are nondenominational.
REALITY: The vast majority belong to some denomination.

MYTH #9: All megachurches are homogeneous congregations with little diversity.
REALITY: A large and growing number are multi-ethnic and intentionally so.

MYTH #10: Megachurches grow primarily because of great programming.
REALITY: Megachurches grow because excited attendees tell their friends.

MYTH #11: The megachurch phenomenon is on the decline.
REALITY: The data suggests that many more megachurches are on the way.

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