The Chapel is at the heart of the School's life.
In the 12th century the Benedictine monks of Abingdon Abbey founded the School - we claim St Edmund as one of our first boys - and built St Nicolas' Church, where the School worshipped. In the 16th century the Church became part of the new Church of England. The School continues that parish church link with three annual services in St Helen's and St Michael's Churches.
Since 1903 daily worship has taken place in the School Chapel. Every year of boys has a ten - minute service each week. These services are non-denominational in Christian character, suitable for those of any faith or none. They give pupils and staff an experience of Christian worship; they are invited to participate as they feel able. During a busy week, it is a valuable opportunity to consider matters spiritual with other members of the School family.
There are voluntary services of daily morning prayer and lunch-time Holy Communion on holy days. On Tuesday evenings boarders attend a service, which varies in content, involving the Chapel Choir, a house singing, a visiting preacher, the Eucharist, art, drama and candle light.
Each March a bishop of the Church of England comes to confirm boys who seek the full adult life of the Church. Preparation includes visiting churches, the Cathedral, a university college chapel and a Carmelite priory.
The Chapel now has a whole suite of windows by artist Nicholas Mynheer, a large eagle lectern that bears the date 1694, and memorial plaques for the Old Abingdonians who fell in the World Wars and for some former assistant masters.
Preparation is given to boys who enter the national Cranmer competition, which requires them to read passages from the Church's Book of Common Prayer. A Christian Union group meets weekly and an Alpha course is available for senior boys.
The Chaplain has an important pastoral role for pupils and staff.
