In 2014, Chiefs owner Clark Hunt launched a vision he had since his childhood: the chance for people to attend a church service while at an NFL game. From there, the Faith and Family Chapel was built. Located next to the southern corner of Arrowhead Stadium, just behind the press box, the Chapel is home to a non-denominational worship service every Sunday morning on which the Chiefs have a home game scheduled at noon.
“What started as a simple pregame service has grown into something much bigger,” said Cedric Hardimon, pastor at Life.Church East Kansas City, in an interview. “Thanks to dedicated volunteers who believe in creating an authentic church experience, whether at the stadium or in a traditional church, Chiefs Chapel now draws larger crowds each week and has become a meaningful part of the game day tradition for many fans.”
Hardimon says that he values the vision from the Hunt family immensely. “You shouldn’t have to choose between church and football on Sunday. A former player perfectly captured why this matters. He flew in from Florida for a game and was disappointed about missing church, but as he walked past our tent and heard worship music, he stopped in his tracks. He could worship right there at Arrowhead before kickoff. That’s the heart of Chiefs Chapel: bringing church to where the fans are.”
Chiefs fans no longer have to decide between church or early Sunday games.
Game ticket or not, everyone is welcome at Chiefs Chapel. Admission is free, and you come as you are—in your Chiefs gear, jerseys, face paint, beer in hand, whatever makes you comfortable. The service is open to everyone and ensures no one has to choose between their faith and their fandom.
Chiefs Chapel was even featured on the Today Show last fall after the Week 10 game against the Denver Broncos.
If you’ve never been before, here’s what to expect: Volunteers will welcome you at the chapel doors with free coffee and donuts. The service, which begins at 10 a.m., features high-energy worship followed by a biblical message that’s relevant and encouraging. Everything wraps up at least an hour before kickoff, giving you plenty of time to get to your seats or back to your tailgate. The atmosphere is family-friendly and relaxed—kids are welcome, there’s no dress code, and no pressure.
“Think of it as your regular Sunday church service, just earlier and at the stadium. Whether you’re a season ticket holder or just in town for the game, we’d love to have you join us before cheering on the Chiefs,” Hardimon added.
With the Chiefs experiencing the success that they have, they are often featured in the Sunday afternoon slate or in prime time, meaning Chiefs Chapel has been less and less frequent. Last year, the franchise only hosted one noon kickoff game—before the Chiefs defeated the Broncos in Week 10 on a last-second blocked field goal by Leo Chenal.
There are three noon game day Chiefs Chapel sessions this season: this Sunday, Oct. 19 (Week 7 vs. Raiders), November 23 (Week 12 vs. Colts), and December 14 (Week 15 vs. Chargers).
You might be wondering: Do the Chiefs go to the event themselves? “While players and coaches are preparing for the game during our service time, we do regularly see their families at Chiefs Chapel,” said Hardimon.
Joel Driskell, worship pastor at Life.Church, has led worship at several Chiefs Chapel events. “Chiefs Chapel brings Chiefs Kingdom together in a unique way—it’s become a place where rival tailgate groups worship side by side, where families create new game day traditions, and where out-of-town fans immediately feel at home,” said Driskell.
“We’ve seen it strengthen the sense of family that makes Chiefs Kingdom special. Fans tell us it helps them start game day with the right perspective and gives them something meaningful to share with their kids beyond just football,” Hardimon added. “It’s also become a gathering spot for fans to pray for the team, the city, and each other. Essentially, it adds a layer of depth to the game day experience that reinforces what Chiefs Kingdom is all about—community, family, and passion.”
The first Chiefs Chapel of 2025 will be held on Sunday, October 19 at 10 a.m. CT—shortly before kickoff for the Las Vegas Raiders' visit.