By Derika Upshaw
Fort Hood Public Affairs
FORT HOOD, Texas —The Fort Hood Gospel Service celebrated their 50th anniversary June 28 at the Lone Star Conference Center.
The gospel service, which began in 1974 at the 19th Street Chapel and is now held at Comanche Chapel, was established to meet the spiritual needs of military service members returning from Vietnam.
At the time, “30% of the soldiers on Fort Hood were Black Soldiers,” said John Sanders, retired chief warrant officer four. “So, the worship opportunity was very simple. There were only three maybe four churches in the area at the time back then that had gospel services. So those particular churches were busted at the seams. So, the Army said, ‘Well, I’m going to release some of the pressure off the civilian infrastructure and open a church on Fort Hood.’”
The congregation saw heavy growth throughout the years, moving locations four times until 1991 when they moved into the Comanche Chapel.
The Comanche Chapel has become a staple within the community. Since its integration, three to four churches have been created within the surrounding community headed by past chaplains. Reflecting on this milestone was instrumental for the church.
“Just looking back, I think it was important for us to take a moment to reflect, to know that we have come this far by faith,” said Chaplain (Capt.) Philibert Meyor. “So just finding this space and this place for us to be able to reflect on the past 50 years, I think that was important, especially for those who haven’t been here for a long time, but they came back just to celebrate these 50 years.”
The members fellowshipped over dinner, had a biblical word from Chaplain (retired Maj.) David Reynolds and acknowledged members that have been part of the congregation since its inception.
“There’s been a lot of progress due to the fact that the young people have taken over from the older people, a lot of them passed on,” said Modesta White, church member and veteran Army military spouse. “I feel grateful to have been a part of this gospel service.”
White received an award as the longest and oldest member of the Gospel service. She was at Fort Hood with her husband during the service’s inception.
Those interested in joining the Gospel Service can join the congregation at 11 a.m. on Sundays at the Memorial Chapel until Comanche Chapel is finished with renovations, slated to be complete later this summer. Services are also streamed on their Facebook page at facebook.com/ComamcheHappeningsNow.
