February 07, 2025
Lake County Journal
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Lake County Journal

NSGL Religious Ministry team leads Forrestal Village Chapel revival

By NSGL Public

The main worship area is looking spic and span after efforts by NSGL’s Religious Ministry Team, First Lieutenant Division and Public Works Department, along with sailors from Training Support Center. (John Sheppard)

Residents of Forrestal Village housing may have noticed activity surrounding the Forrestal Village Chapel. This is because the Religious Ministries Team, led by LS1(SW/AW/EXW) Rashaad Essex, is busy readying the chapel for use by Naval Station Great Lakes (NSGL) chaplains once again.
    The last time the chapel was in use as a chapel was 2008. At one point, part of the chapel in use as the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society Thrift Shop, which is now located in Bldg. 26 on mainside. 
    "We are excited to have a presence again in our housing," said Capt. Carlos Ortiz, the lead chaplain for Navy Region Midwest (NRMW). "We expect to reopen in late summer or early fall."
    The chapel was built in 1960 for use by housing residents, and will once again provide religious services, religious education, and Bible studies.
    Essex is quick to acknowledge help he has received from other NSGL departments, including First Lieutenant Division and Public Works Department (PWD). Training Support Center (TSC) also has supplied sailors.
    MM1 Gabriel Loop, First Lieutenant Division, is supplying much needed equipment. RP1 Juan Bejarano, NRMW Chaplain's Department, is providing logistical support. FC1 Greg McBride, TSC, is providing much-needed manpower. "PWD is providing some assistance that the Religious Ministries Team cannot do," said Essex.
    New furniture, carpeting, blinds, and general repairs are next up for the chapel renovation.
    NSGL will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the reopening of the chapel. "The target timeframe is late September, or early October," said Cmdr. Mike Thibodeau, NSGL executive officer.