In Brooksville, Florida, a unique church is revving up the engine of faith by combining it with a passion for classic cars. Hot Rod Church, led by Pastor Gordon “Chip” Winans, meets every Sunday morning at 11 a.m. in a massive garage bay filled with car supplies and stunning vehicles like a 1956 Chevy.
After attending car shows, meets, and club meetings, Winans found that the car community was in need of a new concept. Following a successful Christmas service for hot rodders in 2025, he decided to launch a weekly ministry. “People will pay to go to a car show and see these beautiful cars, but you can come here on a Sunday morning, hear an encouraging word and fellowship with people,” Winans said. Roy Tate, a member of the congregation, echoed this sentiment, “The car culture is a very close-knit community. To have a common place to gather, it’s wonderful.” Tate, who had struggled with his faith after losing his wife in 2019, found solace in Winans’ ministry and is now working on his 1969 Roadrunner with the pastor.
Winans, an avid car enthusiast with a YouTube channel “Chip’s Garage” and 24,000 followers on Facebook, has been a minister for 37 years, including 27 years of missionary experience in the Yucatan jungle. He has found a way to bond his love for automobiles with his calling to preach. “I met Chip at a car show about four years ago and I was struggling through my faith,” Tate said. “We were car buddies, then he started this church and I found my faith again.”
For those interested in learning more about Hot Rod Church, visit their Facebook page or YouTube channel “Chip’s Garage” for updates and information on upcoming events.
Originally reported by Hernando Sun
Sources: Hernando Sun
