Somerville College Chapel, Non-denominational chapel at University of Oxford, England
Somerville College Chapel is a non-denominational chapel at Oxford University, built in 1935. It features stained glass windows by George Bell, an organ crafted by Harrison & Harrison, and displays a Greek inscription above its entrance.
The chapel was built in 1935 with funds from alumna Emily Georgiana Kemp, marking a shift away from traditional religious requirements at Oxford colleges. This construction allowed the college to create a modern, more inclusive space for people of different faiths.
The chapel honors remarkable women through plaques on its walls, including Constance Coltman, Dorothy L. Sayers, and Margaret Thatcher. These memorials show how the space celebrates and preserves the stories of female contributors to the college community.
The space hosts regular concerts, choir performances, and reflection sessions that blend musical events with personal contemplation. Visitors should expect an intimate setting with good acoustics and can inquire about upcoming events during their visit.
The chapel is led by a Chapel Director rather than a chaplain, giving it an unusual administrative character. This structure allows for both traditional Christian worship and the welcoming of speakers from different faith traditions.
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