Hillsong and “megachurch” practice: semiotics, spatial logic and the embodiment of contemporary evangelical protestantism

Abstract

“Megachurches” are congregations with a weekly attendance of at least 2000, by one definition and that have been established recently—many of them since the 1980s—in a variety of countries including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand. They are often distinguished and distinguish themselves, from older (including other large) churches by a number of characteristics: a contemporary worship style prominently featuring electronic musical instruments and media, dynamic and charismatic speakers, services geared towards “seekers” rather than mature believers, international links and networks, informality in dress and atmosphere. Megachurches are also commonly congregations dominated by relatively young and well-educated members. Beyond these similarities, the term “megachurch” really covers a wide range of denominational, doctrinal, socioeconomic, linguistic-cultural, branding/image and organizational differences. Scholarly and public opinion has accordingly been strongly divided on the position, values and practices of megachurches. Referring closely to the internationally renowned Australian megachurch, Hillsong, this paper attempts to arrive at an analytical framework for megachurches based on a pragmatic and cognitive approach to megachurch semiotics and spatial practice, in the process defining the megachurch as one which seeks to materialize some of the intangibles of the Christian experience, while foregrounding practices of size and presence.

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