SANDI SOARS

Like Amy Grant, Christian pop singer Sandi Patti is reaching out to a wider audience by playing traditional pop venues like the Pacific Amphitheatre and by using contemporary rock and pop-music frameworks for her messages of salvation.

Backed by a vocal trio and an orchestra Saturday at the Pacific, the Indiana-born singer demonstrated a voice of crystal-shattering power and range during her 2 1/2-hour show. Synthesizers and pounding, pre-recorded rhythm backing were used in several songs, but Patti’s voice was at its best on soaring ballads. One, “Love in Any Language,” is the type of uplifting song that might find pop-radio play alongside the likes of Whitney Houston.

Unlike some gospel artists who explore how faith can overcome human struggles, Patti bypassed the doubts and conflicts and opted for sheer celebration. While she obviously appeased the 9,000 faithful at the Pacific, Patti’s real challenge will be to reach the unconvinced.