Christian Life

Christian Life at the University of Richmond offers students, staff, and faculty an opportunity to integrate their faith commitments with their experiences in the campus community. Our programs and services are intentionally welcoming in nature and draw upon the broad Christian tradition.

On-Campus Worship

Three services are held on a weekly basis during the academic year.

Catholic Mass is held at 5 p.m. on Sundays in the Chapel. Visiting priests preside, and students direct the music and serve as lectors, ushers, and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is generally available before and after Mass. 

Kairos Christian Service is held from 8-8:30 p.m. on Tuesdays in the Chapel. Led by members of the Chaplaincy staff and students who serve on the Kairos Leadership Team, the service includes scripture, hymns, contemporary music, prayer and candle lighting. 

Mid-day prayer is held from 12:30-12:45 p.m. on Wednesdays in the Chapel. This 15-minute service includes scripture readings for meditation, opportunities to share a concern on your heart, and a brief time of silence. It is a quiet, peaceful, and reflective way to pause midday and center oneself. 

Holiday Services 

The Chaplaincy also leads services in observance of the major holidays in the Christian year. The fall semester features the annual Candlelight Festival of Lessons and Carols in partnership with the Department of Music. Spring semester includes services for Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, Palm Sunday Mass, an Easter Sunrise Service, and Easter Mass.

Christian Life Programming

The Flamming program provides opportunities and resources for students to grow deeper in their faith and to prepare for lives of faith, leadership, and service.  This programming includes weekly Bible study, first-year community group, a fall retreat, summer internship opportunities, and multiple events throughout the semester for fun and fellowship.  

Pilgrimage Program

In the past, the Chaplaincy has hosted pilgrimages to the Taizé community in France and led walking pilgrimages along St. Cuthbert's Way in the United Kingdom and the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

Campus Ministries

The Chaplaincy also works in partnership with eleven Christian campus ministries that represent a variety of denominations. Each of these ministries is facilitated by a campus minister who serves full-time at UR, in a local congregation, or in the local chapter of a national Christian organization.