What gives a life, an object, or a story its value, and who decides? This series explores how origins are traced, lost, contested and re-imagined. From DNA testing to disinformation, art to artifice, displacement to the theology of recognition, our speakers explore issues related to known provenance, and the meaning of 'no provenance'. View the Michaelmas Term 2026 chapel card.
11 Oct: Revd Dr Helen Orchard, Chaplain and Fellow: 'Whence we came'
18 Oct: Prof Carrie Vout, Professor of Classics, University of Cambridge and Fellow of Christ's College: 'God's image?'
25 Oct: Dr Sophie Kay, Professional Genealogist and Geneticist, Khronicle: 'The many forms of family'
1 Nov: Prof Mona Siddiqui, Professor of Religion and Society, Kings College, London: 'Who taught us our first prayer?'
8 Nov: Prof Robert White, Emeritus Director, Faraday Institute for Science and Religion: 'Origins: theological and scientific reflections'
15 Nov: Shayan Sardarizadeh, Senior Journalist, BBC Verify: 'Content provenance and the challenges of disinformation and AI'
22 Nov: Prof Giorgia Dona: Professor of Forced Migration and Refugee Studies, University of East London: 'Provenance: where from, where to? A brief reflection on refugees' journeys and belonging'
29 Nov: The Advent Carol Service: 'Whence He came'
Other services this term include the Choral Requiem for All Souls' Day (Monday 2 Nov at 6.15am) when the choir will sing the Faure Requiem, and Compline on 20 Oct and 10 Nov at 9.15pm.The Christmas Carol Service, and Commemoration of Benefactors are services for college members.
The Chapel stands in First Court, at the heart of the college, as a place of worship, reflection and enquiry. It is also a focus for the college community, where all are welcome. The Chapel is open every day, for those seeking a time of quietness, or to pray. For those who prefer a non-Christian space to pray and reflect the college also has a Multi-Faith Prayer Room near the library, to which there is 24 hour access.
The Chapel stands in First Court, at the heart of the college, as a place of worship, reflection and enquiry. It is also a focus for the college community, where all are welcome. The Chapel is open every day, for those seeking a time of quietness, or to pray. For those who prefer a non-Christian space to pray and reflect the college also has a Multi-Faith Prayer Room near the library, to which there is 24 hour access.
Christ's College has one of the finest mixed-voice choirs in Cambridge and, during Term, the Choir enriches the worship of the Chapel by singing Evensong on Thursdays (6.30pm) and Sundays (6pm). Coming to Evensong is a wonderful way to hear the Choir, explore spirituality, and get to know a lively community of students, staff and Fellows.
The Chapel is used for a variety of services in Full Term, and weddings during the University vacation. It is also used for musical events and rehearsals during term-time. All services and events that use the Chapel space (including any visiting speakers or performers) are managed by the Chaplain. Please contact her on chaplain@christs.cam.ac.uk for details.