BBC correspondent Humphrey Hawksley visits Lancaster, Ohio and finds the battle for America could be one between moderate and extreme Christians -- a mirror image of what's happening in the Islamic world.

Some excerpts:

Lancaster is solidly Republican, more than 95% white, its approach roads are strip-malls, its centre quaint 19th-Century houses, meticulously upkept - and a church on almost every corner. ...

I was in Lancaster with a straightforward mission.

Given that so many in Europe and the developing world are appalled at the policies of President Bush, how far would his supporters actually let him go?

"You want an answer to that, come to my breakfast meeting tomorrow morning," said Pastor Johnson. (note: Russell Johnson, of theFairfield Christian Church)  ...

I threw out the question.

"The president has been sovereignly decided by God to lead this country," said Matt Roberts, a head teacher.

"If we could see abortion come to an end," said Sheriff Phalen. "If the Supreme Court could end this tragedy, I would be elated."

"Would you still support Bush if he wasn't a Christian?" I asked.

"No," came the answer from Pastor Johnson.

But there's other Christian Republicans in Lancaster who think America needs to help its poor, not cut taxes for the rich, and to not build an empire abroad.

It's an interesting piece.