Next week could be the church's country western band, or maybe the 100-member gospel choir. Godwin said with a laugh. The songs grow louder as the gym fills, the harmony of eight singers replacing the pre-service hush of some traditional churches. About 20 high school students, some with dyed yellow hair, occupy the bleachers front and center. Graying men in blue polyester suits lead their wives to seats next to jeans-clad boomers.
Interracial couples are common.
Under Hutcherson's direction, the church works to attract the Eastside's unrecognized diversity. Pastor Al Veillette said. Its nontraditional trappings combined with its fundamentalist message make Antioch seem like two different churches at the same time. The entire church comes pre-assembled. Undeniably modern irony fills the gym.