VENTURA, CALIF.- Jokes abound when you transform an historic church complete with 96 foot steeple into a romantic B&B called Victorian Rose. One couple has invested all their time, energy and large sums of money into turning a church into a hotel, and the guests who visit and spend the night report their stay is "heavenly".

When Nona and Richard Bogatch converted a 110 year old Victorian Gothic Cathedral (complete with stained glass windows and church steeple) into a romantic B&B, they added extra touches you don't often see during church services-cherubs standing next to bathtubs, waterfalls, and guest rooms that would have caused the founders of an 1888 Southern Methodist Episcopal Church to shriek in horror at the thought-unmarried couples sharing a bed in the "Lord's House" without the sanctity of Holy Matrimony.

My how times have changed! For those seeking a romantic getaway or unique accommodations, this church (B&B) has all the makings of an A+ experience. The Sanctuary breakfasts include fine china and gold flatware, complimented by fragrant fresh flowers, while overlooking the parlor sanctuary with all its treats for the eye to see. This is bed and breakfasting in grand style. The breakfast muffins and pastries are all gourmet. Daily wine & cheese receptions provide great beginnings to an evening out on the town in Ventura, sampling some incredible gourmet fare, then strolling the Ventura Pier.