One Church, One Microphone, Two Hopefuls (K & D)

By JODI WILGOREN

ELWEIN, Iowa, Jan. 11 — A half-hour into the rollicking Sunday service at Antioch Baptist Church in Waterloo, the time came for visitor introductions.
Typically, about five people take the wireless microphone to say a few words. But on this Sunday, eight days before the Iowa caucuses, Antioch's cup runneth
over.

"Good morning, and God bless all of you," said Representative Dennis J. Kucinich of Ohio, who joined Howard Dean, the former governor of Vermont, clapping and swaying with the congregation of about 100. With Mr. Kucinich were 15 supporters and campaign workers, all praising God and their candidate, mostly in that order.

"Peace and blessing to you all," said Nate Wilks, all but offering to escort voters to the caucuses.

Dr. Dean, who has lately been trying to inject religion into his campaign, was, for once, overshadowed by Mr. Kucinich, having lined up only a handful of supporters for the guest-introduction time. While Dr. Dean has had African-American churches on his itinerary many recent Sundays, this one was unusual for taking up two hours on his schedule and offering him not even two minutes of speaking time. At his turn, Dr. Dean praised the choir, not the Lord.

"If Dennis Kucinich doesn't win the White House, I hope I do, and if I do, I'm going to bring the choir with me to Washington, D.C.," he said. "You are unbelievable."

bit more

dp