Gospel service celebrates 40th anniversary Published June 14, 2011 By Susan Griggs 81st Training Wing Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, MISS. -- June 23-26, the Keesler gospel service celebrates its 40th anniversary as the oldest continuously running gospel service in the Air Force. "The service has seen many military and civilians since its inception in 1971," said Chaplain (Capt.) Ralph Elliott Jr. "The service is also well known for cultivating a community where 'everybody is somebody.'" The theme for this year's celebration is "Pressing Towards The Mark" from Philippians 3:14, "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." Scheduled events are: June 23 -- 4:30-6:30 p.m., fellowship reunion for past and present members, Triangle Annex; 7 p.m. , praise service, Triangle Chapel, followed by fellowship and refreshments, Triangle Annex. June 24 - 7-8:30 a.m., physical conditioning, Crotwell Track; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., throw back 70s picnic, marina park; 6-10 p.m. fellowship choir rehearsal, Triangle Chapel. June 25 - 7-10 a.m., prayer walk from Larcher Chapel to the beach, continental breakfast; 6-11 p.m., gala at the Bay Breeze Event Center, black tie or mess dress with worship service, dinner and dancing. June 26 - 9 a.m., congregational picture in front of Triangle Chapel; 10 a.m. to noon, gospel service, Bay Breeze Event Center followed by light refreshments. For more information, call 377-0327 or 424-8331. Click here to watch a video about the Keesler Gospel Service.