Impact Centre Chrétien (ICC), a rapidly growing evangelical church in France, is nearing completion of its ambitious new campus, L’Autel Royal (The Royal Altar). This impressive project signifies not only the church’s 20th anniversary but also its prominent role in the burgeoning megachurch movement within Francophone Christianity.
Megachurches in France: A Growing Trend
France is witnessing a resurgence in evangelical Christianity, particularly through the rise of megachurches. These large congregations, often accommodating thousands of worshippers, offer a multifaceted approach to faith, encompassing worship services, community outreach, and various activities. Recent years have seen the inauguration of several such megachurches, including the Porte Ouverte Chrétienne in Mulhouse and the MLK space in Créteil. ICC, led by Pastors Yvan and Modestine Castanou, joins the ranks of Paris Centre Chrétien as another prominent evangelical church undertaking a significant expansion project.
L’Autel Royal: A Vision Realized
Located in Croissy-Beaubourg, approximately 20 kilometers from ICC’s previous location in Boissy-Saint-Léger, L’Autel Royal is poised to become the largest evangelical campus in France. The project, initiated in the mid-2010s and actively pursued since 2016-2017, represents a substantial financial undertaking fueled by the contributions of thousands of dedicated donors. The new campus boasts a sprawling 4,500 square meters of building space on over 31,000 square meters of land.
alt
More Than Just a Place of Worship
The main auditorium of L’Autel Royal will seat over 3,000 people. Beyond this impressive space, the complex includes numerous multi-purpose rooms, offices, and a restaurant. The vision for L’Autel Royal extends beyond worship services, envisioning it as a conference center and convention hall capable of hosting teachings, symposiums, musical rehearsals, studio recordings, concerts, and various other events. This multifaceted approach mirrors the model adopted by the Espace Martin Luther King in Créteil. However, unlike the latter, ICC has chosen to directly own L’Autel Royal, a decision reflecting the church’s commitment and the significant financial investment made by its community.
The Significance of “Royal Altar”
The name L’Autel Royal reflects two core aspects of ICC’s identity. “Altar” emphasizes the importance of worship, a central element of the church’s practices. “Royal” underscores the evangelical focus on the Kingdom of God metaphor. This dual emphasis encapsulates the church’s commitment to both spiritual devotion and its broader mission within society.
Pastor Modestine Castanou: A Leading Figure
Pastor Modestine Castanou, affectionately known as “Pasteure Mode,” plays a pivotal role in ICC’s leadership. Her active involvement in the development of L’Autel Royal exemplifies the church’s commitment to empowering women in leadership positions. This approach aligns with broader trends within contemporary African religious leadership and the global redefinition of ministry roles within charismatic networks. Pastor Castanou’s leadership, coupled with ICC’s clear protocols for promoting female participation, highlights the church’s commitment to inclusivity and recognizing the talents of all its members.
A New Chapter for ICC
L’Autel Royal represents a significant milestone for Impact Centre Chrétien. This ambitious project positions the church as a leading force within the French evangelical landscape. While the future remains unwritten, ICC’s commitment to female leadership and its multifaceted approach to ministry suggest a vibrant and impactful future for the church in its new home.
