University of Derby Chaplaincy

21/05/2026

Today, faith leaders from five major religious traditions came together to share sacred texts in a safe and respectful environment. Each leader presented a selected text, explained why they had chosen it, and reflected on its personal and spiritual significance. Their presentations were followed by thoughtful and engaging questions from participants.

The event was organised as part of Faith and Belief Month at the University of Derby. It provided a valuable opportunity for dialogue, reflection, and mutual understanding between people of different faiths and beliefs.

We would like to share some reflections on the texts and the conversations they inspired.

20/05/2026

Morning all, just a quick heads up that Charity Lunch has been cancelled for today and next Wednesday.
Thank you for your understanding and sorry for any inconvenience.

06/05/2026

If you're looking for something to do this evening, one of our Chaplains, Catrin,
is hosting a free film night showing
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,
at St John the Evangelist Church
(on the corner of Mill St and Brook St, next to Princess Alice Court).
Doors open at 6pm and the film starts at 6.30pm.
It's free entry with refreshments for sale.

06/05/2026

The Faith and Belief Network, in collaboration with the Chaplaincy, recently organised a wonderful coffee morning, giving colleagues a chance to come together, connect, and enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed and welcoming space.

As May is celebrated as People of Faith and Belief Month at the university, this was a meaningful opportunity to recognise and appreciate the diversity of beliefs within our community.

If you’re looking to make new connections, socialise, and be part of an inclusive and supportive environment, the Faith and Belief Network is the perfect place for you.

We also concluded the gathering by reading the Universal Peace Prayer, reflecting on unity, understanding, and harmony.

15/04/2026

Exciting news!
We're off to Oxford for the day on Thursday 7th May.
Join us for a trip to Oxford, a walking tour of the city, and an extra special tour of Merton College.

Our minibus will leave from the Multi Faith Centre (MFC) at 9.30am on 7th May 2026.
The plan for the day is -
12pm - Arrive in Oxford (please bring a packed lunch/money for something to eat). We'll take a walking tour of the city focusing on sites of interest associated with J. R. R. Tolkien (scholar and author of The Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit), and C. S. Lewis (scholar, theologian, and author of The Chronicles of Narnia).
2pm - Special guided tour of Merton College, where Tolkien was a Professor.
3.30pm - Either free time or the opportunity to complete the Walking Tour.
5pm - Meet back up to eat together, before we leave Oxford at 6pm.
9pm - At the latest, we arrive back at the MFC.

Please wear shoes suitable for walking as we will cover a lot of ground!

COST & BOOKINGS
There is no charge for this trip, only a £10 deposit to guarantee your place. Your money will be returned to you on arrival in Oxford.
Closing date: Fri. 1st May.
If you make a booking & need to cancel before the closing date, your deposit will be returned.
However, if you cancel after the closing date, your deposit is non-refundable.
Bookings to be made through Chaplaincy, with deposits paid in cash only please.

For more details please email us at [email protected], pop into our office in the Multi Multi-Faith Centre or comment below.

19/03/2026

Yesterday, the University of Derby organised a faith trail for PGCE Secondary trainee teachers, which included visits to a cathedral, a Gurdwara, and a mosque. The purpose of this experience was to provide trainees with direct exposure to a range of faith traditions and to deepen their understanding of religious diversity within educational contexts.

Throughout the visits, trainees were introduced to key beliefs, practices, and community roles associated with each place of worship. In addition, discussions with faith leaders focused on the challenges that pupils from diverse religious backgrounds may encounter in schools, and how teachers can foster inclusive classroom environments that promote respect, understanding, and a strong sense of belonging.

The places of worship were notably hospitable, welcoming, and generous in sharing their time and knowledge. Trainees engaged actively, asking thoughtful questions and demonstrating a genuine interest in the perspectives offered by the faith leaders. This dialogue was highly valued and contributed meaningfully to their professional development.

Overall, the opportunity to learn directly from faith leaders and to experience places of worship first-hand is likely to have a significant and lasting impact on the trainees’ future practice, particularly in supporting inclusivity and responding sensitively to the needs of pupils from diverse faith backgrounds.

12/03/2026

We had the honour of organising an Iftar dinner for university students, and Alhamdulillah it was a massive turnout with around 60 students attending from different backgrounds.

It was truly a beautiful evening filled with unity, meaningful conversations, and engagement. Students came together to learn about the spirit of Ramadan, build new connections, and share in a moment of reflection.

Iftar is more than just sharing food — it is about community, compassion, and bringing hearts together.

Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the evening such a success. We look forward to many more gatherings that promote understanding, friendship, and togetherness.

26/02/2026

Quick reminder that Noodles with Philosophy is taking place today at 12.30pm in the Multi-Faith Centre.
All are welcome

18/02/2026

16/02/2026

Tomorrow evening, our Assistant Anglican Chaplain (Catrin),
is hosting a Pancake Party
at St John the Evangelist Church
(next to Princess Alice Court).
6-7.30pm, 17th Feb.
Come join us in this tradition of eating sweet treats. We have vegan and gluten free as well as traditional pancakes and toppings.