Heartland Chapel Rededicated Ahead of Oklahoma City Bombing’s 30th Anniversary

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Heartland Chapel, a symbol of resilience and unity in Oklahoma City, was rededicated Thursday, marking the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing. The ceremony took place at 2:45 p.m. at the chapel, the first structure built after the tragic event on April 19, 1995.

The rededication drew multiple religious leaders, emphasizing the chapel’s role as a beacon of light for the community. ‘Regardless of what religion you or others follow, we want you to remember that God is present. That’s what that symbolism is,’ said Josue Araujo, lead pastor at First Church OKC.

Imam Enchassi from the Islamic Society of Greater Oklahoma highlighted the chapel’s interfaith roots, stating, ‘To celebrate the collaboration, we built this interfaith chapel. And we called it, appropriately, the Heartland Chapel.’

The chapel has served as a gathering place for various faith groups during difficult times. It symbolizes not only peace but also healing within the community. ‘Each of us has a responsibility to repair the broken world. While it’s not our duty to finish that work, neither are you at liberty to neglect it,’ said Mike Korenblit of the Jewish Federation of Greater Oklahoma City.

As part of the rededication, speakers reflected on the chapel’s significance and its mission to bring people together. ‘May all who enter find comfort, regardless of their faith or tradition. May this chapel be a shelter for the weary, a sanctuary for the seeking, and a meeting ground for hearts open to one another,’ Enchassi added.

The chapel underwent significant refurbishments leading up to the ceremony, enhancing its space for reflection and prayer. Among the updates were the replacement of flooring, refinishing cedar benches, and improving the landscaping. Araujo noted, ‘The entire chapel was weathered and needed updating,’ to restore its beauty and purpose.

The Heartland Chapel was constructed soon after the bombing, originally envisioned by the late Rev. Nick Harris to provide a sacred space for healing and contemplation. Community members and interfaith groups collaborated to create this peaceful sanctuary, which remains open 24 hours for all seeking solace.

As the community commemorates the 30th anniversary, the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum plans additional events to honor the victims and survivors. Araujo believes the chapel will continue to play an essential role in uniting Oklahomans for generations to come.