The Chapel
2009 is the 150th Anniversary of the Chapel's consecration. Please see our flyer for information on the special events and services we are holding to mark this milestone.
The Chapel is hard to miss when you come into the College. It is a classic example of the Victorian Gothic revival, designed by George Gilbert Scott and consecrated in 1859. The interior is a beautiful and peaceful space, cleaned and restored in 2007.
The Chapel is a deliberately inclusive place which belongs to the whole College. People of all faiths are welcomed through its doors, as are those who have no religious convictions, and it is open all day for those seeking the opportunity to sit and reflect. The Chapel also has a wonderful acoustic and is a much sought-after venue for musical concerts and special services. Exeter has a fine choral tradition and a highly-respected mixed-voice Chapel Choir, conducted by the undergraduate Organ Scholar, which makes tours in Britain and overseas.
There is a lively Chapel community, which draws together people from many different Christian denominations, as well as those exploring religious faith and broader spiritual issues. There are daily opportunities for Christian worship at morning and evening prayer, as well as Choral Evensong three times a week. Sunday services consist of a morning Eucharist, followed by a good breakfast provided by the Chaplain; and Choral Evensong, usually with a guest preacher. Students are welcome to assist in Chapel services, and to participate in the regular discussion groups, retreats and other opportunities provided to explore and question faith.
The Chaplain
The Reverend Dr Helen Orchard has been Chaplain of Exeter since 2006 and lives in College (staircase 9, room 8). As well as being responsible for the day to day life of the Chapel, the Chaplain is part of the overall welfare provision of the College. She is available to speak in confidence with any member of College concerning any matter and aims to support all who are part of the Exeter community, regardless of their religious beliefs or background.
See a virtual tour of the Chapel (external link)
