About the Chapel

The Chapel is open each day for those who wish to pray, reflect, or just seek some quiet in a beautiful and peaceful place.

Built in the 1470s, the Chapel was the place of worship for the Benedictine monks of the College’s earliest days. Today the Chapel embodies Magdalene's rich heritage: our patron saint's life is depicted in the East Window, and memorials commemorate missionaries, church leaders, teachers, and those who gave their lives in conflict. The simple wooden stalls, are ornamented by candles and the gleaming brass plates which remind us of some of the College’s alumni. Two recent Icons on the East wall are an aid to prayer and candles may be lit here.

There are many ways for students to become part of the Chapel community, through attending services and events, or offering their time, enthusiasm and skills in assisting with worship in Chapel through Bible readings, leading prayers, serving at Communion, running socials or as a Chapel Officer. There are also regular opportunities to explore matters of faith and belief. For more information please contact the College Chaplain, Sarah Atkins.

The College Chapel Choir sing at many regular and special services, more information can be found on the College Choir webpage.

Prayer

Prayer underpins all of Chapel life and ministry. Daily prayer is offered for the College and you are welcome to use these well-worn College prayers to join with us in prayer:

The Collect for the College, said at Morning Prayer

Almighty and Everlasting God, who dost fill all things with thy presence, may thy blessing rest upon this College of St Mary Magdalene, upon the Master, Fellows, Scholars, Staff, and all the members of the same. Prosper their endeavours, promote their studies, and purify their minds even unto the perfect knowledge of thyself; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

The College Evening Prayer

O God our King, whose glory is always to be praised of thy saints, and yet is not able to be expressed: thou, O Lord, art in the midst of us sinners, and thy holy name is named upon us; forsake us not, O God, but at the last day vouchsafe to set us among thine holy and elect, O King, blessed for ever. Amen.