Over Half a Million in Church Debt-Why?

Effects of the economic downturn have infiltrated every aspect of our lives in the past few years. Schools, businesses, students, graduates and a variety of people are doing what they can to get through financially trying times. Churches are apparently no different. This week in the headlines, the Crystal Cathedral Ministries in Orange County, noted as being one of the county’s landmarks and mega-churches filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The tune of this church’s debt rings in at $55 million, according to msnbc.com.
 
As an Orange County resident I am very familiar with this cathedral and literally drove past it every day for three years on my way to work. It’s a beautiful building and venue no doubt about that but I always asked myself, are these extravagant luxuries (i.e. immaculate landscaping and gardens, big screen t.v. monitor advertising events and services on the street corner and not to mention daily maintenance to keep the cathedral in shimmering condition) necessary? A place like the Crystal Cathedral to me just begged the question, could the money this church receives be put to better use instead of cosmetic upkeep of the property?
 
I don’t propose to imply that the Crystal Cathedral is $55 million in debt solely from property expenses or pageant festivities and things of that nature. I do however believe that in many of these high profile religious facilities somewhere along the line they lose sight of what’s truly important. Religion is sacred, controversial and subjective to each of our individual ideals. But I think it wouldn’t be too presumptuous to say that in most religions the essential task of unifying people and helping the less fortunate is something many faiths share. So why not use these millions of dollars to maintain humble venues with extravagant charity programs that feed the homeless, establish community programs for underprivileged children and outreach programs for low income families. The success of a church that can gain tremendous member following and popularity like the 10,000 member congregation the Crystal Cathedral boasts is a great thing. Perhaps focusing on less flash and more fundamental community elements though might help the cathedral recover and avoid future financial hardships from mounting.
 
Church scandals in the headlines are nothing new. From money woes to improper sexual controversies and everywhere in between, churches are not immune to the imperfect nature of man. They are, after all run and established by man, so why would they be? I know of another church, though I draw a blank of the name, also in Orange County easily visible off the 405 freeway near Fairview Ave. that has gorgeous statues, flamboyant landscaping and beautiful architecture that leads me to wonder how many millions they spend on cosmetic and material accessories. I have nothing against places of worship being beautiful but I can only hope that underneath these luxurious facades churches aren’t just exploiting the faith of their followers for business.