Angelica Casas

After forming a band called the Jesus Kids, Angelica Casas, 16, and her twin sister, Alejandra, plan to rock the faithful in the church halls.

Casas, a senior and editor of her yearbook at John Jay High School, has been in the band for four months.

"I've always wanted to be in a band, because I love music," said Casas, who plays a keyboard her mother bought her.

Casas' inspiration comes from people and other artists, especially the band Passion Pit. "The Reeling" is her favorite of their songs.

Casas' band wasn't originally meant to be called Jesus Kids.

"We were going to use the Second Coming or Stigmata, but we thought nobody would understand," Casas said.

She and fellow band members plan to write their own songs. They practice three hours every Monday.

Casas also devotes her time to her church youth group. She gives speeches on topics, such as friendship, that are related to their studies.

"The one up there (God) greatly appreciates that," Casas said. "I love helping people, knowing that someone benefits from what I do. It's great."