Multifaith Spaces at Wright-Patt are open for all Published Feb. 5, 2025 By Alyssa Janeway 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, home to over 38,000 employees from diverse backgrounds, offers multifaith spaces operated by the Installation Chaplain Corps. These spaces provide a welcoming, judgment-free environment for all, allowing airmen to practice their faith. “The purpose of these spaces is to create areas where airmen can practice their faith,” said Capt. Victor Marrero Choe, a Wright-Patterson AFB chaplain. History of Military Chaplains Association The U.S. Army Chaplain Corps was officially established on July 29, 1775, making it one of the oldest branches of the Army. The first chaplains were predominantly Protestant, providing spiritual support to soldiers during the Revolutionary War. Recognizing the importance of faith and morale, General George Washington issued an order on May 2, 1778, at Valley Forge, stating “The Commander-in-Chief directs that divine services be performed every Sunday at eleven o’clock in each brigade which has chaplains… While we are duly performing the duty of good soldiers, we are not to be inattentive to the highest duties of religion.” The Air Force Chaplain Corps was later established in 1949, following the creation of the United States Air Force in 1947. Prior to this, Army Air Corps chaplains provided religious support to airmen. With the Air Force’s independence, its Chaplain Corps developed its own structure, traditions, and mission, ensuring the spiritual resilience of airmen and their families. Both the Army and Air Force Chaplain Corps have played a vital role throughout American history, offering spiritual care, counseling, and ethical guidance to service members in times of peace and war. Message to Airmen Airmen in need of specific faith-based services or worship times are encouraged to reach out to the chapel. “Those who aren’t provided for usually don’t speak up because they’re afraid their faith or views might not be accepted. We’re here to help them find a space where they can practice their faith in a way that matters to them.” religious affairs Senior Airman Caleb Byrd The core capabilities of the Chaplain Corps include religious accommodation, spiritual fitness and leadership advisement. Chapel Community Worship Schedule Catholic Mass Weekday Mass: Monday, Wednesday: 11 a.m. @ Hospital Chapel Tuesday: 11:30 a.m. @ AFIT Chapel Weekend Mass: Saturday Mass: 5 p.m. @ Prairies Chapel Sunday Mass: 9 a.m. @ Prairies Chapel Please contact Catholic Parish Coordinator 937-656-8245 for further information. Protestant Services Sunday Service: 11 a.m. @ Prairies Chapel Please contact Protestant Parish Coordinator 937-257-7427 for further information. Muslim prayer Friday: 12 p.m. @ Hospital Chapel & AFIT For more information on available services or to learn how the Chaplain Corps can support your spiritual needs, airmen are encouraged to contact the chapel staff. The multifaith spaces are open to everyone when not reserved, offering a peaceful environment for all to practice their faith freely. Whether you’re seeking a quiet place for reflection or specific worship times, the Chaplain Corps is here to assist in meeting your spiritual needs. For inquiries, please reach out to the chapel staff at 937-257-7427. Locations and Hours of Operation Area A Locations Area A Office 5030 Pearson Road, Bldg. 219 WPAFB, OH 45433 Kittyhawk Chapel Bldg. 1220 2267 Birch Street WPAFB, OH 45433 (Near the Bowling Alley & Commissary) *Set to re-open Summer 2025 Medical Center Chapel Bldg. 830 4881 Sugar Maple Drive WPAFB, OH 45433 Area B Locations AFIT Chapel Bldg. 640, Rm. 201 2950 Hobson Way WPAFB, OH 45433 Off-base Locations Prairies Chapel Bldg. 682 6568 Chapel Lane WPAFB, OH 45433 (The Prairies at Wright Field housing area) Chapel Community Center (CCC) 648 Chapel Lane Dayton, OH 45431* *Directly behind the Prairies Chapel; shared parking lot