Chaplaincy FAQs
Q:What does the Chaplaincy do?
A:
The Chaplaincy supports students and staff in everything to do with religion, belief and spirituality. There is a full time (Christian) Chaplain and a multi-faith team of voluntary Faith Advisers all of whom are available for advice, support and prayer. The Chaplaincy looks after the prayer spaces, offers a programme of events and activities, and provides a focus for the faith communities in the University.
Q:
So what if I’m not religious?
A:The Chaplain and Faith Advisers are here for everyone in the University. Whatever your beliefs you will find support and welcome at the Chaplaincy.
Q:
Where can I go to pray in the University?
A:
Penrhyn Road: There are two rooms for prayer in Spirituality and Faith Centre in Town House, Penrhyn Road. The “Prayer Room” (TH010) is used for Islamic Prayer with a screen allowing men and women to pray separately with adjacent wudu washing facilities. The “Quiet Room” (TH008) is a flexible space of prayer and reflection for individuals and groups. Kingston Hill: Male and Female Prayer Rooms in Hut 1 on the Terrace Level. These rooms can be used by all traditions. Please use the shower rooms upstairs in Kenry House for wudu. Roehampton Vale: At the moment there is no dedicated prayer space at Roehampton Vale. Students meet for prayer using available rooms; room availability is shown on a screen in the entrance to the Hawker Wing. Knights Park: please use the Spirituality and Faith Centre at Penrhyn Road.
Q:
How can I find a local church or place of worship?
A:
Look for “Places of Prayer” on the Chaplaincy website www.kingston.ac.uk. More information is kept at the Chaplaincy office, please get in touch with us for help and advice.
Q:
Are there Faith Groups I can join in the University?
A:
There are a number of KUSU Faith Societies run by and for students: at the moment these cover Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Sikhi. All are active and welcome new members. If there isn’t a Society for your religious group, why not start one – we’d be happy to help, but always check out the existing societies first. Get in touch via KUSU or the Chaplaincy.
Q:
If I need to talk to someone in the University how can I get in touch with the Chaplain?
A:
The Chaplain is working full time in Student Services and is available in the university during office hours. There are chaplaincy drop ins at various campuses. The university has a series of Faith Advisers working with the chaplaincy covering Judaism, Islam, Sikhi and Hinduism as well as Christianity. The chaplaincy works in partnership with the faith communities of Kingston and can put you in touch with someone from your own faith tradition. Check StudentSpace or our webpages for details.
Q:
Is the meat in the canteen Halal?
A:
A mixture of halal and non halal food is served in the university. Produce will be clearly labelled, so it is easy to check.
Q:
What if my religious obligations and times of prayer clash with the University timetable?
A:
There is no automatic right of time off for religious obligations, but the University will try to make reasonable adjustments wherever it can. It is your responsibility to contact your course leader as soon as possible if there is a conflict. The chaplaincy can help and advise.
