Overview
- Dollywood’s Robert F. Thomas Chapel operates as a quiet, interfaith refuge inside the park, a feature uncommon at major U.S. theme parks.
- Weekly Sunday services are led by Chaplain Joey Buck, a 30‑minute gathering of prayer, scripture, and hymns he has overseen for about 16 years.
- During the Smoky Mountain Christmas event, the schedule expands to additional 4 p.m. services, though the park is closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
- The chapel opened in 1973, predating Dollywood, and is named for Dr. Robert F. Thomas, a traveling physician and preacher credited with delivering Dolly Parton.
- An interactive, spontaneous choir invites guests to participate each week under the longtime leadership of Ms. Cricket Russell, who has served for roughly three decades.