Religion at Millfield
“Chaplaincy at Millfield is an export rather than an import business. Through input at year assemblies, through Christian Crispies and CY (two MAP activities) and through Soul Café (a lunchtime slot with visiting speakers), theological reflection is shared with a much wider constituency than those who simply ‘come to Chapel’.The aim is to sow the seeds of tolerance, patience and generosity and for these and other key virtues to be carried to the four corners of the campus.”
Reverend Philip Harbridge, School Chaplain
Spiritual and Moral Development in the Millfield Community
Millfield believes that true education must be concerned with spiritual and moral development. All pupils of the School, irrespective of their religion, are encouraged to explore and develop their own faith, in an atmosphere of tolerance towards others’ beliefs.
Religions as part of the Millfield Pastoral Care System
Reflecting the open ethos of the School Chapel, the Millfield Chaplains are available for all members of the School, irrespective of faith. At various points in the day, pupils and staff may drop into the office under the Chapel or into the chaplaincy house across from the School gates. Some come by arrangement, others on the off-chance, most because they need someone to listen to them and advise. Whilst the conversation might focus on faith and spirituality, more often than not it will feature characteristic Millfield angst about love, life and feelings of inadequacy in the midst of so much excellence.
Multi Faith Services
The Chaplain is responsible for the ongoing liturgical and spiritual life of the community. Although this doesn’t simply mean running services, the rhythm of regular worship is tremendously important to those who are committed. What really counts are efforts at nurturing these services as a space for spiritual, social and moral development. Short addresses have a key role in this respect – the issues tackled are almost always aimed at a broad audience and have general appeal, so that those of any religion or those of none are equally at home. The School Chapel is dedicated for use as a place of worship for all faiths. Services for Protestants and Roman Catholics as well as a voluntary non-denominational service are held in the Chapel every week. Each year the School arranges a course leading up to confirmation, which is available for Protestant and Roman Catholic pupils. In addition to this Roman Catholics attend Mass in Glastonbury, Muslims, Jews, Hindus and Buddhists meet regularly and contacts with local leaders of these other faiths are being nurtured with a view to mutual visits. Each year every faith represented at Millfield takes an active part in the Start of Year Service held in the magnificent setting of Wells Cathedral.
