BALTIMORE -- In an effort to curb the pain at the pump, many business, such as hotels and car dealers, have begun offering cheap or free gas. Even churches have begun to capitalize on the approach, pairing gas with the word of God.

On Monday, Middle River Baptist Church in Baltimore County offered discounted gas at a BP Station for three hours. The gas was sold for about 50 cents less than current rates, News4 reported.

About 100 customers lined up to take advantage of the offer.

The church's pastor said he got the idea from several other churches around the country that have been offering free and discounted gas in an effort to boost their congregations.

Other churches in Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, Georgia and Missouri have offered gas incentives in similar outreach programs.