Chinese Youths Tiptoe Into Christianity

"Jesus' birthday, faith and giving presents!" Da-Zhi, a jokester with a smile and a Phoenix Suns tank top, shouted out when asked what the holiday is about. He lives across the street from the church and started attending Sunday school in fall 2005 for a simple reason: "He said they had macaroni and cheese," pointing to Richard Yung, 11, who was sitting next to him and lives in the same apartment building.

When another boy, Ken Wu, 13, was asked about the nature of God, he squeezed his eyes shut and pressed his hands together, seemingly in a shy gesture about a new concept.

"He's awesome," Da-Zhi prompted in a whisper.

"And mighty," Ken added.

Right now, the church and Christmas are part of an expanding social support system for the children as much as anything else.

"Christians believe in a God--just, like, one God," said Xiao Li, "and praying to him." Asked if he did those things, his answer was quick: "No."

On Saturday, the meaning of Christmas was 25 youngsters running around Wong's father's Fairfax townhouse, playing cards and eating piles of chicken and fried noodles at a holiday party Wong and peers hosted. The house was quiet for about a minute, just before dinner, when Wong said grace.

"God, I hope this house isn't in ruins at the end of the night and that none of these kids spill," he said with a big grin.

"We thank you for this time and this food. And we thank you for sending us your son and for bringing us together. Praise in Jesus' name."

And then dozens of little voices replied: "Amen."