Christian retailers received a ribbing and some encouragement during CBA Comedy Night, which drew approximately 350 conventioneers to a section of the Valencia Ballroom at the Orange County Convention Center.

"Do we have some Christian retailers here?" comedian Nazareth asked. "God bless you. I don't want to be in your shoes. A homeless man comes into your store and takes a Bible. 'Sir, you've got to pay for that.' He says, 'God's Word (is free).' 'Sir, that's at the hotels.' "

The president of the Christian Comedy Association, Nazareth also poked fun at the different sections typically found at Christian bookstores, including an area for Catholics and Pentecostals. "If you say 'Hallelujah,' go to aisle four. If you don't say anything, go to the DVD section," he said.

Nazareth also encouraged the retailers. "I know some of you are hurting in Christian retail," he said. "God is in control. God will take care of you."

Rick Cassel, who brought his son, Tyler, and daughter, Jessica, told Christian Retailing that comedy night was "outstanding." "I loved it," said Cassel, whose wife, Kathy, is an author for Rainbow Publishers & Press. "It helps everyone relax and unwind."

Jessica, 17, said she enjoyed the show even though she was called up to the stage along with two other audience members by ventriloquist David Pendleton. "I was nervous being up there, but it was a lot of fun," she said.

Jim Whitaker, CBA chairman and co-owner of New Life Christian Stores in Lynchburg, Va., said that he tries to attend comedy night because "it helps to bring a little joy." "This year we need more (joy) than ever," said Whitaker, who noted that his father-in-law recently died. "My wife and I were looking for an opportunity to laugh. This is a good outlet. It's a well-attended event."

Pendleton and Nazareth are featured artists with Bananas Comedy, promoted as the No. 1 comedy brand for the Christian market. The pair's performance was sponsored by EMI CMG Distribution and Guardian Studios.

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