A baby boomer, Ms. Allen is older than many attracted to this type of Christianity. She especially likes these new churches' emphasis on art as an expression of spirituality. I'm not a great singer, and it seemed the only way we had to worship God was through singing. Spirit Garage hosts an annual arts event that includes video and performance art. Seattle's Green Lake hosts an art gallery night that brings in art from other churches as well as people who don't go to church.
Community service is also important.
Spirit Garage dedicates 30 percent of its offerings to helping others. Axxess members mentor students, distribute food and, worrying that the city of Arlington doesn't have public transportation, they talk about how they might provide low-income people with ways to get about town. Marty and Patrick Pitts, both 48, are probably the oldest people at a recent Journey gathering. Journey is a better fit, she said. Postmodern groups often have less hierarchy, said Mr. Cecil, whose leadership group meets every week to decide what to do the next Sunday.