The Chapel is a fine Victorian building (1874), which was once the parish church of St Peter-le-Bailey. There has been a church on or near this site since the twelfth century. Originally, the church was closer to Oxford Castle, hence 'le-Bailey'.
The College Chapel is a place of worship with an open and inclusive ethos, as well as being used for many other purposes by the College community such as musical rehearsals and concerts, meetings and lectures, plays and other artistic events, social events and dinners. An easy way to find out more about the Chapel is to visit the frequently asked questions page.
The main services of the week are on Thursday and Sunday evenings. The Thursday service is at 6.15 p.m. and the Sunday service is at 6.00 p.m. Both are based on the traditional service of Choral Evensong and are led by our fine choir. They include excellent choral music, a psalm, two readings from the Bible, and some prayers and hymns. On Sundays there is a short address (about ten minutes), usually from a guest preacher.
There is also a regular midweek Holy Communion service: details can be found on the Term page. The Chapel is usually open during the day to all College members as a place of peace and quiet for prayer and reflection.
All our services are open to members and staff of the College and to their guests and other visitors to the College. You are guaranteed a warm and unobtrusive welcome. Full details of services, including those for special occasions such as the Advent Carol Service, are given on the Chapel Term Page.
By individual arrangement and subject to appropriate formalities, the weddings, baptisms and funerals of College members, alumni and staff and their families may take place in the Chapel. Please contact the Chaplain, Dr Michael Ward, for further information.