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JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. – The Langley Chapel opened its doors and became a sanctuary for service members and their families on June 29, 1935. Now, 90 years later, it still stands as a spiritual resilience and sacred connection at Joint Base Langley–Eustis, Virginia.
As the Chapel celebrates this remarkable milestone, its legacy is brought to life through stories of hope, healing, and heritage from those who have worshipped and served within the church.
For U.S. Air Force Capt. Martin Lister, 633d Air Base Wing chaplain, the chapel’s 90th anniversary impacts him both on a personal and professional level.
“Every day, during my five-mile run, I reflect on my calling as a chaplain,” said Lister. “I am reminded of two truths: we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, and the mission that began in 1935, continues to this day.”
“We still have a sacred responsibility to build bridges between the military and civilian religious communities in 2025,” said Lister. “I pray that the work I do each day continues to honor and extend the legacy that began nearly a century ago.”
According to Lister, the Chapel’s history is filled with multiple milestones, one being the revitalization of the Chapel Annex into a thriving space for ministry and connection.
“These moments remind me of the rich heritage we’re entrusted with,” explained Lister. “And the responsibility we have to ensure every Airman feels seen, heard, and supported.”
Today, the Langley Chapel remains a spiritual cornerstone for the JBLE community, offering around 10 services weekly, including Catholic, Protestant, Earth Based, and more.
“The Chaplain Corps is trained to provide spiritual care through every phase of military life; from deployment to grief, from transition to celebration, we walk with Airmen every step of the way,” said Lister.
The Chapel’s mission embraces all faith backgrounds. Following U.S. Air Force directives, the Chaplain Corps ensures the free exercise of religion for all, offering faith-specific rites, spiritual accommodations, and connections to local religious leaders.
“Our diverse team is united in purpose,” said Lister. “To ensure every member of our community has the opportunity to grow spiritually and feel supported.”
For Carolyn Cobb, 633d Air Base Wing protestant parish coordinator, the Langley Chapel is more than just a place for spiritual worship; it’s family. Her journey with the chapel began in 1986, during one of the most difficult times in her life. Facing personal loss, a new assignment, and the responsibilities of motherhood, she found hope in the Chapel’s embrace.
“It became clear the Langley Chapel was where we belonged,” said Cobb. “Our daughters were baptized here. I was ordained here. But more than that, we were loved here.”
From its historic dedication in 1935 to the recent 90th anniversary celebration, the Langley Chapel hosted countless ceremonies, memorials, and sacred gatherings.
As the Chapel enters its 91st year, Lister envisions an even deeper impact.
“I hope Langley Chapel continues to be a sanctuary for spiritual growth and sacred connection,” Lister says. “A place where Airmen and families can explore their faith with courage and authenticity.”
“Fellowship has always been the heartbeat of this chapel,” Cobb says. “It has nurtured us through every season of life.”
| Date Taken: | 07.03.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 07.03.2025 14:34 |
| Story ID: | 513017 |
| Location: | HAMPTON, VIRGINIA, US |
| Web Views: | 2 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Langley Chapel Celebrates 90 Years of Faith, Service, and Legacy, by A1C Adisen Smith, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
