Chapel People
The Dean of Divinity (which is what we call the College Chaplain) is The Revd Dr Andrew Bowyer. As Pastoral Chaplain to all members of Magdalen, whether or not they attend Chapel, he can be called on in Cloisters 4:2 for advice or help without appointment. He officiates at most Chapel services, preaches regularly, trains readers and intercessors, and is always delighted to prepare people for baptism, confirmation or marriage.
In addition to his responsibilities for services, he facilitates a broad range of activities outside Chapel, including the Stokesley Society, Chapel Fellowship, student discussions with visiting speakers, and the College’s annual retreat.
The Revd Dr Andrew Bowyer
Dean of Divinity
Room: Cloisters 4:2
Tel: 01865 276027
Email: andrew.bowyer@magd.ox.ac.uk
The Sacristans
The Sacristans are friendly students responsible for organising the altar servers who assist at every Sung Eucharist and at Benediction. They always enjoy training up fellow-students who would like to learn how to swing a thurible (the incense-pot) or carry a candle in procession.
This year’s Sacristans are Caroline Wyatt, Kathryn King and Alexander Lang.
The Verger
The Verger, Joan Jones, is likely to be the first person you see when you come to a service, since an important part of her job is to welcome you and help you find a seat. By long-standing custom, choral services at Magdalen start precisely on time (with the ringing of the bells in the Great Tower), so it’s always a good idea to arrive five or ten minutes early if you can.
Assisting and Honorary Chaplains
The Dean of Divinity receives liturgical assistance from the Fellows’ Chaplain, The Revd Professor Robert Gilbert (Fellow in Biochemistry) and Assistant Chaplain, Mr James Chegwidden, and from Honorary Chaplains, The Reverend Professor Sabina Alkire and The Reverend Elaine Bardwell. The Founder’s Chaplain, Dr Ralph Walker, leads prayers commemorating departed Benefactors of the College on appointed occasions in the course of the academic year.
The Chapel and Choir PA
Melanie Bennette
Room: Cloisters 2
Tel: 01865 286701
Email: choir@magd.ox.ac.uk