The Haven: Ministry center reopens for dorm residents Published Oct. 28, 2008 By Susan Griggs Keesler News staff KEESLER AIR FORCE, MISS. -- The Haven Dormitory Ministry Center is a sanctuary where permanent party dormitory residents can mingle in a comfortable environment free of alcohol and smoke. Keesler is the only base that has two ministry centers for Airmen who live on base, according to Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Francis Lowe. The Fishbowl Student Center is located in the Levitow Training Support Facility, and The Haven recently reopened in Building 4908, one of the permanent party dorms near the White Avenue Gate. Originally opened in 2000, countless Keesler Airmen have found friendship, peer support, mentoring and spiritual growth at The Haven. The center closed about four months ago for renovation, but a ceremony last week marked its reopening. "The Haven is a place where spirituality may be nurtured, friends may gather and individuals may find relaxation in their off-duty hours," remarked Brig. Gen. Greg Touhill, 81st Training Wing commander. "The Haven is a unique, safe place for Airmen to experience renewal so that they'll be better equipped to accomplish the mission." "Nearly $25,000 was invested in The Haven's facelift, so now it looks a whole lot nicer," said Chaplain (Capt.) Scott Jobe. A new tile floor replaced the old carpet, and new ceiling tiles, cabinets, countertop and sink were installed. Old wallpaper was stripped and the walls repainted. Amenities in The Haven include a 61-inch television, VCR, 25-inch TV in another room, microwave oven, game system, piano, stove and refrigerator. There are couches and tables, books, board games, study resources and some of the "comforts of home," like a coffee pot, movie selections, stereo system and dining area. The Haven is open 5-9 p.m., but will also be open sometimes on weekends. The center is coordinated by the chapel staff and designated volunteers. "For the first couple of weeks, we'll be open every night of the week," Chaplain Jobe said. "The Catholic and Protestant communities provided dinner for dorm residents last Sunday and will do so again at 6 p.m. this Sunday, too." There'll be a variety of prayer groups and studies offered in the evenings each week. Some studies will explore leadership, and others will focus on religious or spirituality topics. Chaplain Jobe commented that other studies and activities will be offered later based on the expressed needs of dorm residents. The Haven's activities and other chapel programs are posted on the center's bulletin boards. "The 81st Civil Engineer Squadron transformed The Haven into something beautiful," he noted. "Special thanks go to Master Sgt. Brad Belford, our dorm manager, and Staff Sgt. Jason Guy and Airman 1st Class Jounel Caceres of the chapel staff for their efforts."