What does the Australian ministry, a charismatic Evengalical church, neoliberal tech companies, and the state of late-capitalism all have in common? Yes girls and gays, it’s the beginning of our ongoing mini-series / extensive deep-dive covering the wild and disturbing world of the newly emerging megachurch: Hillsong. Starting as an independent Pentecostal branch off the long-standing Australian institution, Hillsong spread across multiple countries and continents bringing in now over a 100,000 members each week, plus half a million online, watching and engaging in their radical and new-wave form of religious and spiritual practice. From their record-breaking Christian-rock albums to the multiple independent college programs and pricey-stage productions, Hillsong is a vast network of contemporary Instagram-ready entertainment venues veiled under the promises of the Spirit and the Gifts of God. Our series begins with a background and context of their ministries’ inner-workings, plus explanations for how their brand grew to such large numbers, and why their glitzy celebrity connections have brought their beliefs into the American consciousness. We will over the next few weeks roll out the inevitable part two and three, continuing on with our research into who exactly works and funds the church, and the terrifying scandals connected to it, and why celebrities seem unable to talk about it. It’s gonna be a ride, so strap in! Eating For Free is a bi-weekly gossip podcast reporting from the edge of the internet! We're a new wave of celebrity reporters at a time when pop culture is increasingly chaotic and media lacks the ability or moral direction to make sense of this capitalist nightmare! Do you have a tip for us? Got some hot gossip? Need to get any questions off your chest? Call our hotline at Call 1-810-EAT-FREE (1-810-328-3733) or send us an email at questions@eatingforfree.com! Become a Patreon backer for exclusive access to weekly bonus episodes and more! You can also find us on our website, Twitter, and Instagram. For behind-the-scenes gossip and access, join our exclusive Facebook group: Girls & Gays (G.A.G.S.)!  Joan Summers: Twitter, Instagram. Matthew Lawson: Twitter, Instagram. Part 2, Part 3, Part 4  Article Links: Hillsong Pastor Carl Lentz Wears Supreme And Is Friends With Justin Bieber (HBO, Vice) The Evangelical Charismatic Movement (Wikipedia) Organizational Structure (Wikipedia) Hillsong Expansion Timeline (Hillsong Annual Report 2018) How Hillsong Church conquered the music industry in God’s name (The Fader) How Hillsong and Other Churches Use Effective Marketing and Branding Strategies (Faithfully) How Hillsong Crafts Compelling Digital Marketing Campaigns (Hillsong) Inside the Hillsong Church's money-making machine (The Sidney Morning Herald)