"This isn't about trying to get them to go to one church or another. We want them to go to their own churches," Jenna said. "We just look for the things they have in common with Jesus and emphasize those things." Those who profess no belief don't seem to mind the discussions; they don't feel pushed or excluded.

The Murphys agree their home works better than meeting in a church, for several reasons, not the least of which is the discomfort some teens have in a church not their own. "It would be a rare Mormon kid that would feel comfortable in any other church," Jenna said.

The fear dissipates in a neutral space that can actually feel like home.

Though the Murphys don't know, and haven't met, many of the parents of teens who come to their home, they provide a support network much like that of extended family. "We've tried this year to make it to their concerts and sporting events," Paul said. "It breaks our hearts when they make stupid decisions, but we're so proud of them when they do great things."

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E-mail: carrie@desnews.com