Mars Hill Church, Hollywood: Strategic Relaunch Analysis
written by a member of the WCB
Mars Hill Church in Hollywood: Strategic Relaunch Analysis
Cultural Landscape
Hollywood represents a uniquely challenging environment for a conservative evangelical church like Mars Hill. The religious landscape is increasingly polarized, with significant tensions between conservative and progressive Christian perspectives.
Demographic Challenges
Religious Composition
Recent religious landscape studies reveal critical trends:
Protestant identification has declined 11 points since 2007
Evangelical Protestants now account for 23% of U.S. adults, down from 26% in 2007
The share of Americans identifying with religions other than Christianity has increased from 4.7% to 7.1%
Political and Cultural Dynamics
Christian landscape in urban areas like Hollywood is characterized by:
Increasing political polarization
A growing emphasis on social justice
Challenges with racial and cultural inclusivity
Potential Relaunch Challenges
1. Theological Positioning
Mark Driscoll’s historically confrontational approach which was once described as making “Pat Robertson seem warm and fuzzy” would likely face significant resistance in Hollywood’s progressive environment. The church would need to:
Soften its theological rhetoric
Demonstrate genuine community engagement
Address historical criticisms of leadership style
2. Cultural Adaptation
Mars Hill’s previous model of maintaining a “cool” exterior while holding conservative theological positions would be particularly challenging in Hollywood. The church previously allowed members to keep “their retro T-shirts and intimidating facial hair” while requiring them to “abandon their feminism, premarital sex and any ‘modern’ interpretations of the Bible”
3. Demographic Alignment
Current Christian demographics reveal significant challenges:
53% of liberal Christians are non-Hispanic White
Mainline Protestant churches are 86% White
Growing demands for genuine inclusivity and representation
Strategic Recommendations
Relaunch Approach
Radical Transparency: Address past leadership controversies directly
Community-Centric Model: Prioritize social justice and community support
Inclusive Leadership: Develop a diverse leadership team
Flexible Theological Interpretation: Create space for nuanced spiritual discussions
Potential Positioning
Emphasize community service
Create platforms for dialogue
Develop programs addressing local social needs
Build bridges with diverse community groups
Potential Outcomes
The relaunch faces significant challenges but is not impossible. As one religious leader noted, “God never needs a majority. All he needs is a faithful remnant.”
Critical Success Factors
Genuine humility
Demonstrable commitment to community
Willingness to listen and adapt
Transparent leadership model
A Mars Hill Church relaunch in Hollywood would require a fundamental reimagining of its previous model. Success depends on the ability to transform from a confrontational, doctrine-first approach to a compassionate, community-engaged ministry.