The Fort Belvoir Religious Education Center officially reopened to the public Aug. 17 - three months after closing its doors for renovations.
In a ribbon-cutting, Chaplain (Lt. Col.) James King thanked everyone who worked on the building and gave “extra special” thanks to the chaplain assistants who helped get the center ready in time for this year’s Vacation Bible School.
Just the night before, the center greeted 275 kids who pre-registered for VBS. King said that’s an increase of nearly 100 children from last year.
“This is a great occasion for not only our children, but for the entire community,” King said. “I’m looking forward to all the wonderful moments that will take place inside this building.”
Garrison Chaplain (Col.) Philip Hill said it’s quite remarkable for an installation like Belvoir to have so many different denominations supporting soldiers.
“It gets me excited to see children so enthusiastic about attending Bible school. This center is a symbol in teaching children what to know about their god,” Hill said. “I’m proud of my Army and proud of my country for allowing something like that to happen.”
Deputy to the Installation Commander Stephen Brooks, who once attended religious education classes at Belvoir when he was a boy, was one of several participating in the ceremony. He said Belvoir has one of the strongest religious communities he’s ever seen and that community members don’t have to look far for motivation.
“If it’s motivation you’re looking for, I encourage everyone to come watch our children and volunteers in action during Vacation Bible School,” Brooks said. “As an installation, we will maintain our chapels and facilities the best we can. That’s a promise.”
Installation Command Sgt. Maj. Gabriel Berhane credited the chaplains for their leadership and the more than 60 volunteers helping out with this year’s Vacation Bible School for their hard work and dedication.
Upgrades to the center include new window blinds, flooring, room dividers and new kitchen appliances. Chaplain (Maj.) Felix Sermon Jr. said restrooms have also been updated and a new door-locking security system has been installed.
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