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By JAY LINDSAY Associated Press Writer WATERTOWN, Mass. (AP) It's tough out there for a new church, especially in New England.

But several Christian denominations see potential in a region that recently overtook the Pacific Northwest as the least religious in the country.

Some of the denominations follow conservative ideology and argue that the region's churches have suffered by straying from the original message of the Bible.

Others say mainline churches suffered because they failed to reach out into their communities.

In Watertown, Mass., Pastor Chris Bass recently started the Redeemer Fellowship Church in the former home of a 19th-century Congregational church.

The church is now a core of about six families, but he hopes to spread his message of salvation by serving and loving his neighbors.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 10-28-09 0554CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list