STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- The Bible and beer -- believe it or not, the two can go together. In fact, it's been happening every Sunday night for nearly a year at the Phyrst Bar in downtown State College.

"I've been going to church all my life, and it's time to take the church to the people," said Jeremiah Kingshipp, pastor of the Phyrst Church and part of Penn State's Christian Student Fellowship, or CSF.

"We're taking it to them, just like Jesus did in his time," added Buzz Roberts, another minister with CSF.

One student experiencing the service for the first time told WJAC-TV news that many students aren't interested when you invite them to a typical, organized church service.

"But when you say, 'Hey, we're done with studying. Do you want to go to the Phyrst, hear a message, grab a drink, or not?' It's easier. It's about hearing a message and getting to congregate," said Patrick Wilcock, a Penn State student.

Kingshipp moved to Centre County in the summer of 2007. He said it didn't take long to realize the bar scene was a huge attraction for Penn State students. He contacted several area bars, but they didn't want him to hold a religious service inside their businesses. That's when CSF contacted the owners of the Phyrst.

"All I wanted was an hour on Sunday nights to share the word, and they were cool with it," said Kingshipp.

And that's how the Phyrst Church started in the fall of last year. While some Christians might have a problem mixing alcohol with the Word, Kingshipp says that's not the point of the ministry.

"Is this going to offend them? To be honest, I don't care," said Kingshipp. "And my reasoning is they're already saved and they have a mission on their heart on how to save people. Well, so do I. And this is it."

Kingshipp said about eight area churches are in support of his "church in a bar" ministry, and they pray for him often.

"I know there's always going to be an issue with alcohol. But I'm trying to teach balance and moderation, acceptable versus beneficial behavior," added Kingshipp.

Students attending the service understand that message.

"I was extremely interested to come," said Justin Kearns, a Penn State student. "I gave it a shot, and I really liked the message and the community atmosphere."

And it's a laid-back one -- with music, ministry, and perhaps some Molson. About 50 students and area residents come out to hear the gospel every Sunday night, something Kingshipp hopes will go on for a long time to come.

"This isn't just a church in a bar, it's a revival," said Kingshipp. "God is doing amazing work."