What makes a church?

Faith? Community? An amalgamation of the two?

How about a sprawling campus that stretches nearly a city block, or a cathedral-like monument on the outskirts of town that glows in the distance as a constant reminder for all who pass?

If you’re in Modesto, you can find both. 

Here are some breakdowns of the largest and most well-attended churches in Stanislaus County:

• ST. STANISLAUS CATHOLIC CHURCH – The golden vaulted dome is enough to make this building, which was completed less than a decade ago, standout amongst some of the beautiful and ornate churches around. And when you factor in a parish history that stretches back nearly 150 years and a cradle rich with tradition, it’s easy to see what makes St. Stanislaus so magnetic. Despite being relatively new, this Catholic Church incorporated many of the architectural designs found in the centuries-old cathedrals across Europe. Beautiful stone archways. The bright golden dome. And while many Catholic churches have gone to a more contemporary feel inside – replacing pews with chairs and the like – the interior of St. Stanislaus still maintains that Old World feel. 1200 Maze Boulevard. www.ststancc.org. 

• THE HOUSE – Don’t let the name fool you – this is no ordinary house of God. It houses a full gym for its members. A state-of-the-art preschool. Parking and an entrance for first-timers looking to reestablish their connection with God, or find one that never existed before. And it is massive. Situated where Briggsmore Avenue intersects with Coffee Road, The House stretches for nearly a city block along one of Modesto’s busiest streets and the campus itself extends far beyond what is visible from the street. It looks more like the corporate headquarters for an insurance company than your standard evangelical Christian assembly center. But it draws thousands, serves the community in a multitude of ways, and shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon. And if you can’t make it on Sunday, don’t worry – their services are webcast live. 1601 Coffee Road. www.thehousemodesto.com.