Ekklesia Church of God, which meets in donated space at Baskets for Babies, is a bible-based congregation that’s “tolerant with reservations,” explained Pastor AJ Donier.

The independent, freewill church began in 2008 by Donier and his wife Jennine who were seeking a church that was true to the teachings of Jesus.

This isn’t your typical Catholic church.

There’s no incense. No gothic-style building. The congregation doesn’t believe the pope is infallible. And, the priest, the Rev. Tom Altepeter, is married.

In 1997 Cal Pierce said he heard God call him to Spokane.

That’s when he and his wife, Michelle, left their home in Redding, Calif. and came here to open Healing Rooms Ministries.