It sounds more like you hate the idea of classical composers moreso than their music. I hold a Bachelor's degree in music and I guarantee you that I have not yet scratched the surface of the music offered by classical composers from whatever eras. You'll find that much that you currently listen to and enjoy has very strong roots in the music of people you might not like or even appreciate, but the roots are there all the same. When it comes to music, you will eventually have to learn the music of people you don't care for and there's simply no way around that if you have any desire to study the art at any depth.
Personally, if I had your choice, I'd focus on the classical first and then hit up rhythmic - what I'm assuming to be more contemporary pop or worship music type playing - later. Secondly, drop whatever assumptions you have about ye old composers. They won't help you in the long run.