‘I want people to connect with God’ | Christ Chapel at Churchill Downs creates space for worship | Derby 150 [Video]

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — As excitement builds for another Kentucky Derby, there’s work being done behind the scenes to prepare not only The Run for the Roses, but other races, as well.

Many people who work there also live on site.

With busy schedules, church meets people where they are. There’s a chapel on the backside of Churchill Downs called Christ Chapel. It provides clothes, food, and worship opportunities primarily for people working on the backside.

“Without God, I mean, He wakes you up in the morning to do this seven days a week. It’s hard work. You’re away from your family four months out of the year. He’s the provider. That’s all I can say,” Michael “Homie” Wise, who works on the backside and attends services at Christ Chapel, said.

Wise said he’s been working with horses for years and his job duties include a little …