KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - A man in Knoxville, Tenn., says he was so consumed by the spirit of God that he fell and hit his head while worshipping.

Now he wants Lakewind Church to pay US$2.5 million for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Matt Lincoln says he is suing after the church's insurance company denied his claim for medical bills.

The 57-year-old has had two surgeries since the June 2007 injury, but still feels pain in his back and legs.

He says he was asking God to have "a real experience" while praying.

Lawyers for the church say he failed to look out for his own safety, and other congregants even saw him on the floor laughing after his fall.