Tim Tebow draws big crowd to Easter service

Washington, Apr 9 (ANI): Tim Tebow drew a crowd of almost 15,000 to Easter Church service on Sunday.

The worshippers flocked to Celebration Church in Georgetown, Texas, nearly 20 miles north of Austin to hear the newest New York Jet speak.

Travelling more than 100 miles to get there in some cases, churchgoers gathered in fields for a music-filled outdoor service. And dozens of school buses started arriving before sunup Sunday, with Tebow fans eager to catch a glimpse of the deeply devout Christian football star.

"I only got about four hours sleep, I was so excited," People magazine quoted Amanda O'Hara, a worshipper who arrived from San Antonio around 4:30 a.m. said.

"He doesn't hide who he is. Parents should see him as a role model."

Reportedly, a church spokeswoman said that Tebow recently reached out to church Pastor Joe Champion about visiting his congregation.

Easter Sunday happened to the best date for the football star, she said.

"In Christianity, it's the Pope and Tebow right now," Champion said.

"We didn't have enough room to handle the Pope."

During the service, NFL quarterback joined the pastor on stage for a 20-minute interview.

"It's OK to be outspoken about your faith," said Tebow, the son of former Baptist missionaries who became known in his college playing days for wearing Bible verses in his eyeblack.

According to Sports Illustrated, Tebow cited a line from the Pledge of Allegiance, when he was asked about his thoughts on what the country needs to improve.

"First and foremost is what this country was based on: one nation under God," he said.

"The more that we can get back to that," he added. (ANI)