ATLANTA (AP) — Attendance at the nondenominational 2819 Church has soared, with young adults waiting in long lines to participate in Sunday worship. The church, led by Pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell, has seen its weekly congregation grow from fewer than 200 attendees in 2023 to approximately 6,000 today. Many worshippers arrive as early as 05:30 to secure a spot, with the atmosphere outside resembling a lively block party fueled by Christian rap music and enthusiastic volunteers.
Inside the sanctuary, the mood shifts dramatically as attendees engage in heartfelt worship. Mitchell captivates his audience with his dynamic preaching style, which is characterized by a direct approach to biblical teachings. He emphasizes the urgency of his messages, often speaking about the importance of faith in the context of life and death. “It is life or death for me,” Mitchell stated, likening his role as a preacher to being on the front lines of a battle for souls. His sermons, which emphasize the need for spiritual transformation, have gained traction online and have led to significant attendance spikes at various church events.
The church’s name, referencing Matthew 28:19, reflects its mission to spread the Gospel and make disciples among all nations. While the congregation is diverse in age and race, it predominantly attracts young Black adults, a demographic noted for its declining church attendance in America, according to research from the Pew Research Center.
Connecting with the Youth
Warren Bird, an expert on church growth, points to the significance of leadership in attracting congregants. He describes Mitchell as someone who “speaks a language” that resonates with young people. Churchgoers cite the pastor’s authenticity and his willingness to share his personal struggles, including his past with drugs and mental health challenges, as factors that deepen their connection to his message. One attendee remarked, “When he speaks, I believe him,” highlighting the impact of Mitchell’s candidness.
Mitchell’s sermons often challenge the feel-good messages prevalent in many churches today. He aims for authenticity, stating, “I’m preaching without watering that down.” This approach appeals to a generation seeking genuine spiritual guidance. Attendees like Donovan Logan, 23, appreciate the straightforwardness of Mitchell’s messages, acknowledging that they may not always be comfortable but are necessary for personal growth.
Experiencing Growth and Challenges
The rapid growth of 2819 Church has posed logistical challenges. Recently, the church moved into a new building, having outgrown its previous location in a high school. During the first few Sundays at the new venue, the church added additional services to accommodate the influx of worshippers. This trend was particularly evident during a recent prayer event at State Farm Arena, which drew around 40,000 participants, far exceeding the venue’s capacity.
Mitchell, who has been preaching for over a decade, attributes his church’s success to a pivotal spiritual awakening he experienced during a trip to Israel. He now preaches without prepared notes, focusing on the needs of his congregation. Despite his accomplishments, he expresses feelings of being “ill-equipped” for his role, reflecting on the responsibility he feels for the souls in attendance. “I shed a lot of tears because I feel often ill-equipped, undeserving,” he shared.
As the church continues to grow, staff members, including Tatjuana Phillips, the ministries director, are tasked with managing the increasing number of attendees. They emphasize the importance of community through small groups, known as “squads,” to foster deeper connections among congregants.
The worship experience at 2819 Church has become a significant draw. Congregants describe a palpable sense of the Holy Spirit during services, enhanced by vibrant music and an atmosphere of prayer. “The worship is crazy. The Holy Spirit is just there. Like, tangible presence. You feel it!” expressed Desirae Dominguez, 24, capturing the essence of the church’s environment.
As 2819 Church continues to thrive, it remains committed to its mission of fostering spiritual growth and community engagement. Mitchell’s passionate preaching and the church’s dynamic worship experience are drawing in a generation eager for meaningful connection and faith.
