Reviving Faith: The Remarkable Growth of 2819 Church in Atlanta

Sat Dec 06 2025 17:09:32 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

An inside look at how Pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell's raw and authentic approach has attracted a diverse and vibrant congregation at 2819 Church, transforming it into a lively hub for young adults seeking spiritual fulfillment.

2819 Church in Atlanta has undergone a transformation from a small congregation to a thriving community with over 6,000 weekly attendees, driven by Pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell's passionate preaching and engaging worship experience. The church attracts a predominantly young Black audience, showcasing a dynamic and powerful atmosphere that resonates with those seeking authenticity in spirituality. This article explores the church's rapid growth, challenges faced by the leadership, and the deep connections being formed among its congregation members.

ATLANTA — The rise of 2819 Church in Atlanta has been nothing short of extraordinary. Once struggling with fewer than 200 attendees, the church now attracts over 6,000 members weekly, with lines of eager young adults forming as early as 5:30 a.m. to secure a spot for Sunday worship.

Pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell, who leads the congregation, emphasizes a no-nonsense approach to spirituality, with his messages often leaving his audience in tears. Known for his energetic style and relatable storytelling, Mitchell’s sermons resonate deeply, particularly with a predominantly young Black audience at a time when traditional religious involvement among young adults is declining.

2819 Church takes its name from a Bible verse in Matthew 28:19, urging believers to spread the Gospel widely. This nondenominational, theologically conservative congregation stands out not only for its growth but also for its community engagement, attracting diverse members who yearn for more than just motivational talks.

Preaching Without Filters

Mitchell's preaching style is raw and unfiltered. He combines candid reflections on his life experiences—ranging from struggles with addiction to feelings of inadequacy—with a deep, unwavering commitment to faith and transformation. Churchgoers appreciate how he challenges them spiritually, emphasizing the importance of grappling with sin and the need for genuine repentance.

There’s life in what God has commanded, noted Elijah McCord, a 22-year-old attendee, reflecting on the powerful connection between Mitchell's messages and their everyday realities.

A Community Transformed

As attendance has soared, the church has faced logistical challenges, including outgrowing its previous venue. With the recent move to a larger facility, the congregation continues to prioritize community through small groups—affectionately called “squads”—to foster deeper connections among members.

Church leaders, including ministries director Tatjuana Phillips, are constantly adapting to meet the needs of this growing congregation. Moreover, the church hosts prayer events that draw thousands, demonstrating its impact beyond regular services.

We’re constantly tinkering. We’re constantly fixing things, Phillips remarked, highlighting the dynamic environment as the church navigates this phase of rapid expansion.

As the congregation gathers each Sunday, the atmosphere of fervent worship and community is palpable, with passionate praise music and heartfelt prayers marking the experience. Mitchell’s belief that every individual matters profoundly impacts attendees, paving the way for many to rediscover or strengthen their faith.

In a world where many young people have distanced themselves from traditional religions, 2819 Church stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that authenticity and connection can reignite spiritual fervor.