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TechnoratiWith the growth of charismatic Christianity in the United States, a Barna Group study set out to dispel myths about the movement that is typically associated with gifts of the Holy Spirit such as speaking in tongues. One of the major myths the study identified was charismatic churches strictly belonging to its own group of denominations when in reality, charismatic churches cross denominational boundaries.
7. Wicca Experts Encourage Christians to Engage America's 'Fastest-Growing' Religion
Marla Alupoaicei, one of the authors behind the book Generation Hex, warned Christians about Wicca, claiming it to be the fastest-growing religion in America. With most eyes monitoring Islam, Wicca is growing "under the radar," the author said. Alupoaicei hopes to educate Christians on the movement that is little-known and encourage believers to reach out to Wiccans, rather than avoid them.
8. Joel Osteen Maintains Homosexuality as Sin
While many Christians question the theology of Joel Osteen, pastor of the largest church in the country, he affirmed that he and the leaders at Lakewood Church believe homosexuality is sin. Osteen had met with Jay Bakker, son of Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker, who made a failed attempt to convince Osteen, among other prominent pastors, to change his view on gays and lesbians.
9. Obama Suggests Jesus Christ Not the Only Way to Heaven
As then Democratic presidential contender Barack Obama's faith was under much scrutiny, a report by The Associated Press revealed that Obama does not believe in the exclusivity of Jesus Christ. The now president-elect said he believes non-Christians who live moral lives are also "children of God" and that his late mother, who was not a believer, is in heaven.
10. Outreach 100: Largest and Fastest-Growing Churches in America
For the first time since Outreach magazine started compiling its annual report of the largest churches in America, all 100 churches listed among the largest had 7,000 weekend attendants or higher. With seven churches reporting attendance averages of exactly 7,000, "The Outreach 100" this year included 103 churches, whose combined attendance was 1,128,451 – an increase of 111,527 people from 2007. Topping the fifth annual list again this year was Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church in Houston with 43,500 attendants.
