Saturday Night Alive!
By Mark Goldstein

      Who says Christians don't know how to have fun? Not the organizers of Christian Café, a nightclub-type event held on the third Saturday night every month at Sabbath Grace Fellowship, a non-denominational church in Apopka.

      The church, which describes itself as "A safe place to grow as we journey together with God," focuses on creating activities designed to attract individuals who, for whatever reason, do not feel comfortable in a church atmosphere or have had a negative church experience in the past. Christian Café, which is open to the public, is a "safe" environment where people can experience Christ in a non-traditional Christian activity. Boris Kovach, Café founder and leader of the café band explains, "It is important that we create that safe atmosphere where our guests feel extremely comfortable." He admits that he is a bit confused in that Christian Café was designed to target singles and married couples ages 25 to 40 with an alternative to the typical bar scene. However, Kovach says, "Even with the contemporary music, folks over 70 years old regularly attend. "

      The goal of Christian Café is simple – be a good influence and make a lot of friends. Doors open at 8PM and food and non-alcoholic mixed drinks can be purchased at the "bar." The house band begins at 8:30 featuring contemporary Christian music, and additional entertainment includes skits, improv, audience interaction, and karaoke. One evening even Elvis showed up! Though Christian Café officially closes at midnight, people want to hang around as long as possible because they think it is just a cool place to be.

      When asked why he has such a passion for the program, Kovach, whose long-term vision is to see Christian Café available every Saturday night says, "I want us to be able to offer a quality time where people can enjoy themselves, make lasting connections, and no one ever goes away disappointed."

      Sabbath Grace Fellowship is located at 207 Semoran Commerce Blvd. in Apopka. For more information on Christian Café go to www.yoursafechurch.com, or call 407-814-SAFE (7233).