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Two other cathedrals are also great examples of public places that are also sacred. One is Saint James Cathedral in Seattle, which attracts thousands not only for worship but also because of a renewed dedication to the performing sacred arts. The other is San Fernando Cathedral in San Antonio, which continues to honor the colorful customs of the Mexican Americans who worship there at the same time that it speaks to the civic issues of the day. Does the search for sacred space have anything to do with belonging to an organized religion? Some studies now show that attendance at worship in the so-called mainstream religions is in decline while the evangelical denominations are attracting large numbers.2 A recent trip to Brazil helped me realize the significance of the Pentecostal religious movement, especially in the lives of poor people, and how mainstream religions may be losing their appeal. At one time Brazil was ninety-nine percent Roman Catholic. Now, by some estimates, only seventy-five percent practice Catholicism. One Sunday I was taken to a Pentecostal service on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro. Twelve thousand people were there! And they filled this "cathedral" with the same standing-room-only crowds at two other services. Thirty-six thousand people traveled on foot and by bus and car that day, from the barrios and the favelas, looking for encouragement as they wrestle with the problems of everyday life. The liturgy was not in a traditional form. A charismatic preacher, a single musician, and large numbers of hospitality ministers tended to the flock. Even this gringo felt welcomed. This same megachurch movement has taken hold in the United States, attracting the "seekers" who are tired of the shallow sermons, worn out rituals, archaic liturgical languages and musical repertoires that are the staples of some of the main stream denominations. There is no research indicating how long the newer religions will endure. However, the combination of gracious hospitality, social outreach, inspiring preaching, invigorating music, and a strong reliance on sophisticated media technology has quickly become a refreshing antidote to the dusty worship practices of the "old world" religions. The architectural style of these megachurches is best described as the big box variety that can be constructed quickly and inexpensively. Typically there are no bells, stained glass windows, crosses, images, or altars. Only a welcoming sign along the road identifies the structure as a religious building. 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | Contents |
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