Bible Underpins Palin's Politics

Sarah Palin's pastors say an abiding faith in the Bible is at the core of her personal and political life, the New York Times reports. She attends the nondenominational Wasilla Bible Church. Its links to groups which seek to convert Jews and "cure" gays have caused concern—but townspeople say the unassuming, conservative church is a true reflection of Alaska.

"God has given her the opportunity to serve,” said Palin's former pastor at the Pentacostal Assembly of God Church, which she moved from in 2002. He said Palin contacted him when she first became governor, seeking examples of great leadership in the Bible. He recommended she look to Esther—a beauty contest winner who becomes queen and saves her people from destruction. (More Sarah Palin stories.)