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 Chaplains Corps was officially established on July 29, 1775, with the first formal chaplains being Protestants. On May 2, 1778, General George Washington issued this order at Valley Forge: “The Commander-in-Chief directs those divine services be performed every Sunday at eleven o’clock in each bridge 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 Military Chaplains Association was founded on April 25, 1925, when seven regular and 13 reserve Army Chaplains met and organized the Army Chaplains Association.
In 1940 a representative group of Navy Chaplains accepted an invitation to join the Association which became known as the Army and Navy Chaplains Association. When the Department of the Air Force was established in 1947, the present name was adopted.
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
Monday, Wednesday: 11 a.m. @ Hospital Chapel
Tuesday: 11:30 a.m. @ AFIT Chapel
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
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
Area B Office
Bldg. 50
2130 5th Street, WPAFB, OH 45433
Room 014 Lower Level
*Co-located with Education Bldg. 50*
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