Everything you ever wanted to know about... Warwick's Chaplaincy
"Everyone is welcome."
Many staff members will be aware that we have a multi-faith Chaplaincy here on campus at Warwick.
But do you know who can use it, where it is, what kinds of activities take place there, and why you might visit?
We chatted to Dr Gurnam Singh (Sikh Faith Adviser) and Reverend Annie McCormick (Anglican Chaplain), to find out everything you need to know...
What do Chaplains and Faith Advisers do?
Reverend Annie McCormick (Anglican Chaplain): Chaplains and Faith Advisers support those who wish to explore their faith or spirituality - they provide a valuable listening ear to anyone on campus: students and staff.
Dr Gurnam Singh (Sikh Faith Adviser): Chaplains can be engaged in a variety of ways. We support University committees, work with faith organisations in the community, meet students one-to-one, support bereaved staff and students, maintain multi-faith spaces across campus, and create an inclusive, welcoming community through all of our activities.
Tell us about the newest team member...
Annie: Dr Romain Chenet is our newest Faith Adviser. He’s an Indo-Tibetan Buddhist (Kagyu by upbringing), but is familiar with Southeast Asian Buddhism as well. Romain is excited to network with Buddhist students and staff across campus: supporting them to practise their faith, networking them with local Buddhist groups and raising awareness of Buddhism. Romain is also a Senior Teaching Fellow in the School of Cross-Faculty Studies and Director of Undergraduate Admissions.
"Faith, food and friendship" - the motto of the Chaplaincy team. From left to right: Shaykh Imran Suleman (Muslim Chaplain), Reverend Annie McCormick (Anglican Chaplain), Father Peter Conley (Assistant Catholic Chaplain), Sheila Hope (Chaplaincy Co-ordinator), Dr Romain Chenet (Buddhist Faith Adviser), Rabbi Fishel Cohen (Jewish Chaplain), Joanna McCree (Chaplaincy Co-ordinator), Deacon David Palmer (Catholic Chaplain), Dr Gurnam Singh (Sikh Faith Adviser), Professor Vicki Squire (Buddhist Faith Adviser), Reverend Mark Rowland (Free Church Chaplain).
There are many team members in the Chaplaincy, of many different faiths. How does this work?
Gurnam: Along with supporting individual needs, the Chaplaincy also fosters connections between communities - as a Sikhism lead, I've had the privilege of collaborating with colleagues from various faiths and none. These interfaith dialogues have not only enriched my understanding of different worldviews but also allowed me to share the beauty of Sikhism with others. These connections promote unity and harmony among diverse groups.
Annie: It's integral to our way of working that all faiths and belief systems share a respect for one another. This demonstrates the importance of listening, respect and understanding, and giving space in our busy lives to be open to the views and beliefs of others.
Can any staff member visit the Chaplaincy, regardless of whether they have a faith?
Annie: The Chaplaincy facilities are for people of all faiths and no faith. We are an inclusive space - everyone is welcome.
Our Chaplaincy team notices people and celebrates their individual worth regardless of who they are or where they have come from, or what they believe. Just like the Wellbeing team, we offer care and support to both students and staff, recognising the need to support the whole person in their University life.
Gurnam: We also have specific facilities on-site for people who do have a faith. For example, Islamic prayer facilities are provided in our Prayer Hall. We also have kosher and halal kitchens, to make sure everyone is able to use the spaces available to them.
Who else might visit the Chaplaincy?
Gurnam: Many in our community will be facing personal, professional or academic struggles. The Chaplaincy provides a safe and non-judgmental space for those people
Annie: We have a wide programme of activities for all to attend, including religious and community social events organised by Chaplains, such as the craft café. In the evenings, the Chaplaincy is used by student faith societies to hold their events.
Can I come to the Chaplaincy to rest or be quiet?
Gurnam: The Chaplaincy is one of the more tranquil places on campus, and many of our users come here to find some peace in the busyness of university life.
Staff and students are very welcome to use the space to relax, study, reflect, pray, meditate or find support. There's a small kitchen where you can make a drink, as well as toilet facilities, social areas, and places to study.
Annie: You might have spotted a quiet courtyard between the Chaplaincy, Senate House and the Arts Centre - you can use this to sit, meditate, practice mindfulness, or just unwind.
The Chaplaincy is a catalyst for celebrating the rich tapestry of beliefs and cultures present at Warwick. Events such as interfaith gatherings, festivals, and cultural exchanges bring students together to create a harmonious campus environment, where every student feels welcomed, valued and respected.
- Dr Gurnam Singh, Sikh Faith Adviser