By Sheila McLaughlin
The Cincinnati Enquirer

MONTGOMERY - What does Elvis have to do with a church Christmas celebration?

A lot, when the Elvis impersonator's dad is the pastor of Kemper Road Swedenborgian Church & Wedding Chapel.

The Rev. John Billings admits the church's Saturday "Christmas Tribute to Elvis" - that will spotlight his 39-year-old son, Rhett Billings of Deer Park all decked out as "the king of rock 'n' roll" - is a bit unconventional.

"We're pushing the envelope here. For us, this is a first," the John Billings said. "But, if we are having fun - and there is a good sense of faith and honesty and fun together - it doesn't matter if Elvis is up there doing some nice tunes. There is nothing wrong with being rhythmical and full of song."

When Rhett Billings, a budding entertainer, isn't shaking his hips to the tunes, belly dancer and congregation member Teri Friend will keep things lively at the intermission.

The event, from 7-10 p.m. at 9035 E. Kemper Road, also includes bingo, refreshments, raffle drawings and a 50-50 split-the-pot.