Open house at the chaplaincy centre

IN Beit quad’s East Basement, staff and students can take time out from busy lives and reflect in a bright, light chaplaincy centre.

From left, Andrew Willson, Susie Snyder, Charles Sargent, Cathy Bird and Alan Gyle in the chaplaincy prayer room

The centre, with its peaceful prayer room, office and meeting room, is the result of a students’ union iniative which aimed at providing a focus on welfare, wellbeing and the care of the student. It also sells Fairtrade goods, directly benefitting those who grow the ingredients or make the products sold.

“We hope to have created a safe and useful place for people to come,” said Alan Gyle, Anglican chaplain to Imperial and the Royal College of Art who  has been joined by Cathy Bird, Methodist and Free Church Chaplain, Andrew Willson, Anglican chaplain, Ivor Netto, Roman Catholic Chaplain and Charles Sargent, Chaplain to the school of medicine. Susie Snyder, chaplaincy assistant, joined in September.

“The response to the centre has been good so far. It enriches the overall provision of welfare resources for staff and students.”

Formally opened in October by the Bishop of London, Rt Rev Richard Chartres, and broadcaster Trevor Phillips, the centre has hosted inter-faith discussions while Tony Coleman, MP for Putney, joined others in reflecting on the events of 11 September, as part of a series of  lunchtime discussions entitled Where do we go from here?

A series inviting people from different voluntary organisations to speak, giving others the opportunity to volunteer, attracted people from Christian Aid and the Night Shelter project.

“Staff come here for prayer and to be part of discussion groups,” added Andrew Willson. “At a time when a lot are under pressure, it’s a useful resource where they can talk in safety and be listened to in total confidence, while also having the opportunity to explore theology if they want to and reflect on ethical issues.”

Carols by Candlelight
11 December 18.00
Holy Trinity Church (Prince Consort Road)