Incirlik members meet at ‘Crossroads’

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jeff Nevison
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  The 39th Air Base Wing Chapel not only offers a place of worship for many diverse faiths, but also a place for personnel to meet for different activities that aren't necessarily specific to any particular religion. 

"The chapel has a duty to the community that expands beyond weekend services devoted to specific religious beliefs," said Chaplain (Maj.) James Tims, 39 ABW head chaplain. "We cater to the needs of everyone here." 

Along with this duty, the chapel sponsors different activities at the newly-renovated Crossroads Café, located on D. Street across from the consolidated club. 

"The Crossroads Café has supported the community for over 10 years," said Staff Sgt. Aaron Smith, 39 ABW Chapel assistant. "It's a place for single and unaccompanied personnel to relax; it doesn't have the distractions of a smoky bar or alcohol and it's an alternative to sitting alone in a dorm-room or drinking at the club." 

One event the chapel service sponsors at the Crossroads Café is "Unaccompanied Night," where single and unaccompanied Airmen can come together on the last Saturday of every month. 

"It is very important for Airmen to have an avenue where they can connect with peers in a social or low-threat environment," said Sergeant Smith. "The 'unaccompanied night' provides an opportunity for everyone here unaccompanied or single to meet people they can relate to." 

Dependants are also welcome during other times. For example, "Club Beyond" is a group of Incirlik Unit School students who socialize every Friday night at the Crossroads Café. 

"Club Beyond is a great way for Incirlik's teenagers to come together," said Ms. Maryann Barker, Crossroads Café director. "Not only do the kids get a free meal and play games, but they can also talk about things that are on their minds without repercussions." 

As far as chapel-sponsored programs, there are also a multitude of meetings held in the chapel itself. For instance, Alcoholics Anonymous is a community outreach program. 

"Chaplains are not just here for spiritual guidance," stressed Chaplain Tims. "We support the whole-person concept and care for the well-being of everyone. When people seek help, we want to be able to facilitate in their search. 

For more information on chapel programs and services, or to find out about the various groups that meet at the Crossroads Café, call the 39 ABW chapel at 676-6441.