Christian Clubbing: Thou Shalt Rock

By Sarah Sturmon Dale

Club Three Degrees in Minneapolis, Minn., boasts all the night-life staples, like pool tables, DJs and live bands. But a few things are missing, like alcohol, cigarette smoke and music with racy lyrics. That's because the club, scheduled to open this week, is the city's first downtown Christian nightclub. Until recently, it was housed in an out-of-the-way spot that used to be a rock-'n'-roll bar. "We see this as a mission," said the Rev. Nancy Aleksuk, who has managed the club's move to its new $3 million venue with a capacity of 1,700. The relocation comes as Christian entertainment is increasing in popularity and visibility across the U.S. Russell David Hobbs, founder of The Doors, Christian nightclubs in Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, says his clubs have done so well that next year he is opening a third, in Plano, Texas. In Hallandale Beach, Fla., more than 600 people attended the August opening of Club Mighty, a once-a-month Christian nightclub created by insurance agent Sheldon Bland. "We get believers and nonbelievers," said Bland. "People are looking for an alternative to the typical club scene."

--By Sarah Sturmon Dale