Pastor Tom Ascol recently encountered a rather disheartening surprise during a supposed “prayer service” at the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport, an experience he candidly described as falling drastically below his already modest expectations.
Even he couldn’t have anticipated the degree to which this “service” would indeed contrast with his low hopes for it.
Ascol gained considerable attention online after recounting his frustrating ordeal:
While I awaited my flight back from visiting Voddie’s family, an announcement at @DFWAirport invited “all” to a “prayer service” in the airport’s chapel. With a heavy heart, I approached, carrying the hope that at least some Scripture might be read. To my dismay, I found an Imam-led Salah instead. pic.twitter.com/p6GhJ4IESB
— Tom Ascol @tomascol (@tomascol) September 26, 2025
Ascol’s trip had been to pay respects to the family of Voddie Baucham, a significant figure in Christianity who had recently passed.
Describing the moment, he noted, “As the announcement echoed in Terminal D, inviting ‘all are welcome’ to the chapel at gate D40, I felt compelled to participate—naively believing there might be some semblance of ecumenical spirit.”
However, what awaited him was far from the familiar readings of the Bible he had envisioned.
After receiving multiple requests for interviews concerning this incident, Ascol took to social media to further detail his experience. “The announcement was repeated, ensuring no passerby could miss it,” he explained, sharing his thoughts on the nature of the gathering that awaited visitors.
“As I arrived, my heart was heavy, knowing my flight to Cape Coral was imminent. My expectations were low; I anticipated perhaps an insipid blend of various faiths, but I hoped nonetheless for a scriptural moment.”
“Upon peering inside the chapel, I saw several individuals kneeling on mats, led by an Imam, while a prayer resonated near the entrance. Reality sank in; what was being offered to those who attending was a Muslim prayer service,” he continued.
Determined to witness the proceedings, Ascol approached the door, only to be met with an unexpected obstruction.
“As I moved to enter, the Imam swiftly blocked my way and, while gesturing towards a chair at the back, insisted I remove my shoes,” he stated. This clear indication that the gathering was exclusive to Muslims spelled the end for Ascol’s brief foray into interfaith prayer.
While the experience may have rattled him, it ultimately fortified his convictions.
This incident has compelled me to engage in more fervent prayers, seeking revival for believers, conversion for those outside the faith, and restoration of Biblical truth in our communities. Believers, unite in this purpose. 12/12
— Tom Ascol @tomascol (@tomascol) October 1, 2025
On X, Ascol expressed his dismay that such a misleading representation of worship could unfold in a public venue, citing the mismanagement by DFW Airport authorities. “As a Texan and an American, I find this deeply troubling, but as a Christian, it provokes my spirit for the honor of Christ,” he declared.
“This incident has pushed me to advocate for prayer more than ever,” Ascol reiterated, urging fellow believers to join him in seeking divine intervention.
This article originally appeared on The Western Journal.
