The Captiva Chapel by the Sea is ready to welcome the community back for its 77th season, with inter-denominational weekly services resuming this Sunday, November 9, at 11 a.m.
These services, which will run weekly through April, are led by the Rev. Dr. Doug Dortch. This season marks the final year of a three-year ministry for Rev. Dortch and his wife, Judy, following the chapel’s tradition for its ministry leaders.
The first service of the season will feature Holy Communion and congregational hymns, with music provided by Lynne Dugan, who is celebrating her 19th year as the chapel’s music director.
A Building Raised and Ready
This is no ordinary start to the season. The chapel is welcoming worshippers back to a building that has been through a remarkable recovery.
“Our 120-year-old building has withstood many hurricanes, but last year’s Milton pushed it off of its foundation,” the chapel shared.
Thanks to the efforts of chapel leaders Bob Johnson and Jake Miller, along with Davie Shoring Co., the historic building is now “four steps higher and leveled,” securing it for the future.
This resilience means attendees can once again choose to sit inside the newly supported building or enjoy the service from the “colorful folding chairs” outside—a preferred spot for many regulars. Following Hurricane Milton, the chapel was also rewired with new speakers to ensure those seated outdoors have a perfect audio experience.
How to Attend
- In-Person: Services are at 11 a.m. on Sundays. The chapel advises guests to “Please come early and be careful while parking,” as the lot is shared with the Captiva Civic Association. Parking is restricted to one side of the road only, per the fire chief’s request.
- Online: For those unable to attend, the weekly service will be livestreamed on Facebook. It will also be posted afterward on the chapel’s website and YouTube channel, where services from the past season can also be viewed.
For more information, visit https://www.captivachapel.com/ or call 850-322-9752.
