Laughlin chapel welcomes new priest

  • Published
  • By Laura Salazar
  • 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Those who frequent Laughlin's chapel will soon be seeing a new face when Father Tom Edelen, Laughlin's new priest, arrives.

"Becoming the full-time priest for Laughlin is a special opportunity that has been laid in my lap to minister to God's people. I'm very excited to sermon to servicemen and women and their families," said Edelen.

Edelen was born in Japan to an Air Force family. After moving around the U.S., he attended Steven F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas before entering the seminary.

"I have been a priest for 10 years. I'm currently assigned to a church in Trinity, but I've had the opportunity to address churches all across Texas. I've been in Paris, Clarksville, Longview and Marshall," said Edelen.

Edelen volunteered to move to Laughlin when he saw a need for a priest. The Laughlin chapel has been without a full-time priest for more than 11 months.

"I was ecstatic when I heard the news Father Edelen would be joining us at Laughlin. He is from Texas, so I know he'll be a great fit. He will bring a huge morale lift," said Chaplain (Maj.) Dwayne Keener, 47th Flying Training Wing chaplain.

Keener said Edelen will give the chapel the opportunity to have a Catholic program by holding daily mass as well as having an active religious education program for the Laughlin community.

"I will always be available to talk to a person, even if they're not Catholic. I won't try to take people away from their religious beliefs. I believe we're building up God by building up each other," said Edelen.

To help welcome Father Edelen to Laughlin, the chapel held a Fair by the Chapel here Aug. 21. The fair was open to the Laughlin community and offered food and games for all ages. Additionally, the fair provided information on how to become more involved at the chapel and services provided, including Sunday school, youth groups and Vacation Bible School.

For information on these opportunities, please contact the chapel at (830) 298-5111.