A controversy has erupted at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport after Pastor Tom Ascol, a Southern Baptist leader, reported being denied entry into the airport’s chapel while a Muslim-led prayer service was taking place. Ascol, who had just visited the grieving family of his late friend, pastor and scholar Dr. Voddie Baucham, recounted hearing an announcement that “all are welcome” to a prayer service. Expecting Scripture to be read, he instead found the chapel converted into a space lined with prayer rugs and led by an imam. When he attempted to enter, he says he was stopped at the doorway and told he could only come in if he removed his shoes. Refusing to comply, Ascol left, later posting on social media about the incident and sharing photos that fueled widespread reaction.

The situation has sparked outrage online, with many pointing out the irony that the chapel was originally dedicated to honor U.S. military service members. Critics argue this is not an isolated event, but part of a larger trend where shared public chapels are being dominated by Muslim-only services, effectively excluding Christians and other faiths. Similar complaints have surfaced at Houston’s Bush Intercontinental Airport and Orlando International Airport, the latter having invested taxpayer money to build gender-segregated Islamic prayer rooms with mosque-style features. Ascol’s account has ignited debate about religious freedom, equal access to public facilities, and whether America is subtly shifting to accommodate one faith at the expense of others.

SOURCE: RAIR Foundation