Chaplaincy at BGS
Brighton Grammar School adheres to the principles and practices of the Anglican Church and acknowledges its contributing role in the development of the boys' spiritual awareness.
Our Chaplains play a positive role in developing the full potential of the boys: physical, psychological, spiritual and religious.
By any standards, the work of the Chaplains is challenging. With significant cultural changes impacting on the educational environment in which our young men are growing up, the contribution that Chaplains can make to good schooling is becoming more and more important.
About Chapel
Chapel life is based on the threefold Anglican tradition of Scripture, Tradition and Reason, with the Sacraments a central part of our devotion. Services are inclusive and open to all boys and staff (teaching or non-teaching), regardless of their personal religious convictions.
There are approximately 150 such gatherings each year, with prayers for people who are sick or who have died, prayers for wisdom and compassion, and stories from the many faith traditions that enliven the spirits of the boys.
Each year, Old Grammarians and other community members are also welcomed to Chapel for significant celebrations.
Our regular cycle of prayer and worship is as much the Chapel’s reason for being now as when it was first begun, more than a hundred years ago.
The Chapel year also includes staff and Old Grammarian weddings, baptisms, reunions and funerals. For more details of our Chapel services and special events, and for information on Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion at BGS, Weddings, or Funerals, click the above links.
Throughout their years at Brighton Grammar School, boys and staff can find that their faith and religious understanding deepen as they grow in the community life of the School. They can begin to reflect more critically on spiritual matters.
Any one of our six Chaplains is always happy to discuss any aspect of the Christian faith, and to assist in preparing for Baptism, Confirmation and/or First Communion.
Parents, Old Boys or Staff of the School who would like to have their children baptised are also encouraged to contact one of the School Chaplains.
Baptism
Baptism is a joyful service involving a public declaration of faith and commitment to God. It offers us a way of entering the fellowship of the Anglican Church. It is another important step on the continual journey towards spiritual maturity.
Confirmation
Confirmation and First Communion are often the next step after Baptism, particularly for those who were baptised as infants. It provides an opportunity for them to affirm for themselves their commitment to the Christian faith.
Confirmation signifies a renewed commitment to the life of the Church, as well as the wider community, through worship and by serving Christ in one another. Those who are baptised as teenagers or adults are normally confirmed at the same service.
Marriage
Brighton Grammar School has long enjoyed a close association with our neighbouring parish Church of St Andrew, where our School Chapel worship is conducted.
When planning their weddings, staff and Old Boys of the School naturally consider the familiar surrounds of the School Chapel as a possible venue. Before making any firm arrangements, however, it is strongly recommended that you contact one of our Chaplains.
Organising a wedding can be time-consuming and complicated, and we will help in every way we can. We are always very pleased to discuss the possibility of an Old Boy or a member of staff being married in Chapel.
Chaplains
Whether it is regarding a marriage or any other matter, you are welcome to contact a chaplain at any time.