Who's On First...

...and second, third, home plate, across the outfield, and in every one of the 45,000+ seats in Anaheim Stadium? Saddleback Church, that's who. California's largest congregation will be celebrating its 25th Anniversary in a big way on April 17th. The church (or mega-barn as a this and this blogger friend who don't think much of big churches refer to it and other mega-churches) has rented out the stadium, and for the first time in many, many years, will conduct only one service this weekend. Even with 45,000 seats, only about half of the total church roll will be able to attend.

I'm sure this will get some media attention next weekend, and some may accuse the church of bragging or hubris by choosing such a high profile location for their event, but I can understand exactly why they're doing it this way. Saddleback Church has gotten so large that it's physically impossible for the entire church to worship together at one time (another frequent criticism of mega-churches). This weekend a whole bunch of us will have the chance to share the experience, all in one place and all at the same time. It should be really fun and will certainly point out the amazing blessings that God has sent our way.

I'll post a first-hand report on the celebration next weekend.

The last time I attended a religious event at the stadium was the final night of the 1985 Billy Graham Crusade when over 80,000 people filled the park. At that time the stadium had more seating than it does now, but there were still over 20,000 people sitting in the outfield grass. It was an amazing evening, and I expect next weekend's service will be just as amazing.

By the way, I posted my thoughts on Big Churches vs. Small Churches a few weeks ago.

UPDATE: Here's my report on the celebration.