ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to explore, using empirical data, the identity and relevance of chaplains within a University setting. Three theoretical models of chaplaincy are explored: the parish model, the sacramental model and the denominational church gathering model. There are a number of theoretical models of University chaplaincy espoused by reflective practitioners in the field of Higher Education. The directive from the National Conference of Bishops spoke of the focus of University chaplaincy as being apostolic and evangelistic. Giles Legood, in his reflection upon University chaplaincy, suggests that there will always be a tension for chaplains between the work of gathering individuals and engaging with the structures of the institution and those people who work within them. When such tensions arise, it seems to the reader, that one useful way forward is to identify the models of chaplaincy in use and to ask how relevant such models are in terms of engaging with students for the sake of the Gospel.
