Since 1962 the chapel and chaplaincy has been at the very heart of Canterbury Christ Church University. As a Church foundation institution, CCCU is proud to be part of the Cathedrals group of Universities and a founding member of CUAC (Colleges and Universities of the Anglican Communion). And as such follow the CUAC declaration of ideals
The Identity and Character of CUAC Institutions: A Declaration of Ideals
1. Extending the opportunities afforded by higher education: This is an instinct arising from the Anglican desire to serve and to include, with particular regard to first generation students. CCCU was set up in 1962 by the Church of England as a teacher training college on the grounds of St Augustine’s Abbey with the focus being on education for all and that remains at key value and belief.
2. The priority of conversation: Anglicans recognize that teaching, learning, research and good leadership all involve conversation. As educators, our colleges and universities should affirm the same.
3. Respect for the inherent dignity of the whole person: A fundamental Christian insight, upheld by Anglican tradition, is that all human beings are made in the image of God. Therefore, everyone will be treated with dignity as we seek the formation of whole persons on safe campuses where children and vulnerable adults are protected from abuse and exploitation. As a chaplaincy we are here to serve the entire community and celebrate the unique diverse group of people whom we live and work alongside.
4. Personal character and the shaping of society: CUAC institutions are concerned with the common good and the contribution of the individual to it. They encourage dialogue concerning vocation, service and love of neighbour. Equally, CUAC institutions are concerned with the way the world is, with envisaging how it might be, and working for a better world.
5. Creating sustainable futures: Anglicans understand human beings as members of the community of creation, with responsibility for the wellbeing of the global ecosystem. We will therefore strive to safeguard the integrity of creation, sustaining and renewing the life of the earth and the diverse communities it supports.
6. Learning for life: We prepare students to become life-long learners with an educational mission of developing the knowledge, skills and wisdom necessary for meaningful lives.
7. Respect for faith and reason in the search for truth: In a CUAC institution, reason and faith, philosophical and theological approaches, flourish alongside each other for the better exploration of truth. Academic freedom is part of that search and part of humankind’s liberty to explore the world God has made.
8. Fostering critical self-examination: We wish to foster critical self-examination, seeking to ensure that every aspect of our operation meets our ethical standards.
9. Opportunities for worship and celebration: Creating opportunities for prayer, worship and ministry, alongside individual and communal exploration of faith and spirituality, are an essential part of a CUAC institution.
10.A living connection to the local, national and international Church: A founding and continuing relationship with the Church is the mark of every CUAC institution. The College or University will thereby act as an intellectual resource and critical reflector for the Church.
Drafted by CUAC’s Distinguished Fellow The Revd Jeremy T. Law, D.Phil., Canterbury Christ Church University: Adopted by CUAC Board July 2016, 2020, 2022
On a day to day basis, the chaplains operate an open door policy offering, all members of the community the opportunity to access a chaplain. The hospitality offered here, centres on chaplaincy being a safe space where conversation can happen, enabling the individual to share their story and express their worries and concerns. Chaplains do not promise to have all the answers, what they offer is an opportunity for someone to come along side you, walk with you, listen to you and support you as you think your way forward. Chaplains are part of the VC’s office and as such are outside many of the formal structures of the university, enabling them to offer impartial support, whilst also being fully integrated into the policies and structures.
All chaplains can be contacted, directly via, email, teams or mobile phone (see contacts page for more details)