Controversy at DFW Airport Chapel
Senator Chip Roy (R-TX) recently reached out to the CEO of Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), voicing concerns over an incident where access to the airport’s chapel was reportedly denied during a Muslim prayer service.
Roy’s letter, which first came to attention through a post by pastor Tom Ascol from Grace Baptist Church in Cape Coral, Florida, referenced a photo that showed the chapel in use for Muslim prayers. Ascol noted that despite the airport’s claim that “all are welcome,” he was not permitted to enter the chapel.
In his letter, Roy indicated that the situation raises significant questions about the management of the DFW chapel. He described it as a space intended for all travelers, operating 24/7. Furthermore, he expressed concern that denying Christian entry into this public chapel contradicts its purpose as a facility supported by taxpayer funds. Roy emphasized that DFW has an obligation to maintain neutrality and ensure inclusivity, warning against any form of religious exclusivity within the chapel.
Roy outlined several questions he wants addressed by McLaughlin regarding the chapel’s policies and access:
- A detailed list of all scheduled services in the DFW Interfaith Chapel, their frequency, and faith affiliations.
- An explanation of the approval process for the Chapel Access Policy, specifically who approved it and the justifications for restricting access.
- Commitment from DFW to ensure practices align with their stated goal of being an inclusive space for all faiths during scheduled services. He stressed the need for transparency with taxpayers regarding chapel policies.
Ascol later shared his experience on social media, clarifying his perspective after receiving media inquiries. He described hearing an announcement about a prayer service scheduled at 2:30 PM and expressed his initial hope that there might be some Bible reading included. However, upon arrival, he saw a space prepared for Muslims, complete with prayer mats and instructions for purification. Ascol felt disheartened then, realizing the service was solely Muslim.
He attempted to enter the chapel but was blocked by an individual who stated the prayers were exclusive to Muslims, leaving him feeling unwelcome. This experience, Ascol later noted, not only troubled him personally as a Texan and a Christian but also sparked broader concerns about deceptive inclusivity by the DFW authorities.
In response to the claims made by Ascol and Roy, a DFW spokesperson stated that the chapel operates as an independent, nonprofit entity and is committed to providing a respectful space for all types of prayer and reflection. The Executive Director, Pastor Greg McBrayer, emphasized the airport’s long-standing tradition of inclusivity and respect for all travelers. He expressed sadness at the claims and reaffirmed that everyone is welcome to observe services without restrictions.
McBrayer added that both a long-standing pastor and a Muslim cleric were shocked by the allegations and that, had they been aware of the incident, they would have clarified that the chapel is open to all. He underscored the importance of maintaining respect within the shared space for prayer.
