Church services held at House of Blues in downtown Houston

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- At the House of Blues in downtown Houston, there's a new act in town and it's here to stay.

"City Church Houston" has adopted the concert venue as its new home for Sunday worship.

At first glance, the lead guitarist on the main stage coupled with funky art on the walls and beer behind the bars, makes it seem like you're at a rock concert. But listen closely and you can hear the band is singing about Jesus and the bar is closed for business. Because it's not just another concert, it's church.

"I've come to concerts here my whole life. Born and raised in Houston. It's a dream to have church here," said Julie Carpenter, who is part of the congregation.

"City Church Houston had its first service on August 23. Since then, people have packed HOB for the 45 minute service each Sunday. They're averaging 600 people a weekend.

Will Goodwin and his family are back a second time:

"I work downtown and to come downtown Sunday morning to be with a bunch of people worshipping, it's fun," Goodwin said.

It may take some getting used to.

"I have to say it's a little crazy to drop my two year old off and nine month old off in the other venue for church," said Ashlea Taylor laughing.

But overall, people seem excited for the hip worship space.

"There was a lot of appeal with it being at the House of Blues!" Christina Goodwin said.

"We wanted to be in a space to reach people that live in urban Houston," said Leo Schuster, lead pastor.

Schuster says music and art is a big part of their spiritual message, so the HOB venue was the natural fit.

"We thought meeting in a space like house of blues would be less threatening and more inviting," he said.

Services are every Sunday at 10:30am.