Mega Church Development: How Dag Heward-Mills Builds Churches That Grow
The term “mega church” often brings images of crowds, massive auditoriums, and polished programs. But in the ministry of Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, a mega church is not just about the number of people—it’s about the depth, the discipleship, and the strength of the church family. His approach to church growth is holistic, intentional, and deeply spiritual. It’s not about gathering crowds—it’s about building people.
Bishop Dag teaches that God is interested in big churches because big churches mean many souls have been won and are being discipled. Jesus wants His house full, and the book of Acts describes churches multiplying daily. So, a mega church is not a worldly achievement—it is a kingdom responsibility.
The Foundation of Faithfulness
Before any church can grow, it must be healthy. That’s why Bishop Dag emphasizes the importance of loyalty, strong leadership, and faithful service. A church cannot expand if its structure is weak. His teachings on loyalty have shaped the culture of the United Denominations Originating from the Lighthouse Group of Churches (UD-OLGC), creating a strong foundation that can support growth.
He believes that mega churches are built through the work of many faithful people—not just the charisma of one preacher. Every usher, singer, pastor, and church worker plays a part. The development of a mega church is the result of collective sacrifice, consistent teaching, and spiritual vision.
The Role of Lay Ministry
One of Bishop Dag’s most impactful strategies in building mega churches is the use of lay ministry. He has raised an army of unpaid, dedicated workers who serve in various capacities—preaching, counseling, teaching, organizing, and even planting churches. These lay ministers make it possible for churches to grow rapidly and sustainably.
By empowering everyday believers to serve in ministry, he multiplies leadership without multiplying payrolls. Lay ministry is not second-rate—it is the engine room of church growth in his model. People are trained, trusted, and released into real ministry work, and the results speak for themselves.
Preaching That Builds
Bishop Dag’s preaching and teaching are also key drivers of church development. He teaches in series, builds themes week after week, and delivers the Word in a way that transforms thinking and shapes behavior. His books are used as curriculum across his churches, ensuring that every member is being taught with consistency and depth.
Growth is not just numerical—it is doctrinal. His churches are known not just for their size, but for their strength in the Word. He doesn’t shy away from teaching about holiness, loyalty, sacrifice, and the cost of discipleship. This is what gives his churches stability, even as they expand.
Evangelism That Brings the Increase
No church becomes mega without a strong emphasis on soul winning. Bishop Dag has created a culture where evangelism is part of everyday church life. His members are encouraged and trained to witness, invite, and follow up on new converts. Outreach is not a department—it is a lifestyle.
Crusades, outreaches, campus ministries, and Sunday services are all designed to reach the lost and grow the Church. The focus is not just to bring people in, but to turn them into committed followers of Jesus Christ.
Conclusion: A Church That Looks Like Heaven
Mega church development in the ministry of Bishop Dag Heward-Mills is not a formula—it is a calling. It is the result of decades of faithfulness, vision, hard work, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel. His churches are filled with people from every walk of life, worshipping together, growing together, and reaching the world together.
They are a glimpse of what heaven will look like—multitudes from every tribe and tongue, gathered around Jesus. And through Bishop Dag’s ministry, that vision is becoming a reality on earth.