God has protected this beautiful house of worship over the last 20+ years. Most of the buildings at Fort Ritchie have been heavily vandalized. Many buildings had doors kicked in, windows broken out, holes in the walls/ceiling and the list goes on. The chapel was also slated to be demolition when the base closed but for some reason the building was never knocked down. We sing praise for these blessings.

There were many things that need to be done before the doors could be opened. Because the building was slated for demolish we had to go thru rezoning and occupancies with Washington County. The heating/air was brought up to modern and efficient systems, bathroom were updated, stage had drywall work done then painted and finished with a beautiful rugged cross and deep cleaning of the chapel. 

During the summer of 2024 we began to focus hard on the foundation of the church and what Sunday worship would look like. We have a rotation of pastors, a mix of worship, and children's ministry. While there are still many things to do we are now able to have regular Sunday service at 10 am weekly. We will stay focused on keeping the main thing the main thing! That's Jesus and teaching the word of God.

We continue to make renovations to the chapel. Over this next year we hope to replace storm windows that protect the stain glass, repair stain glass, fresh paint, pews bolted down, update light fixtures and other small things. One day we would take the restoration further by refinishing the hardwood floors that have been covered over and replace the siding.  

We know this chapel holds many great memories to so many close and far. It is for this reason we want to give everyone the opportunity to help us revitalize the chapel. We have a goal to raise $50,000 in effort to  continue to revitalize the chapel. This $50,000 doesn't have to be all cash donations. It can be in kind giving of your professional services or items needed. Maybe you are a professional contractor and can provide a service that could help check one of the projects off the list.

Please pray as we walk in faith to revitalize the chapel and start a church for the mountain top community.  To give a cash donation you can click here (https://ritchiechapel.churchtrac.com/give)  When the online giving link pops up click to the chapel realization category

Thank you for coming along side of us! To God be the glory!