Message from the Chaplain

Being at university is a time to stretch ourselves. Of course this includes stretching our minds, and some may wish to increase their physical fitness as well. But it's also a time to broaden our horizons with new friendships, to exchange ideas with one another, and to work out what's important in our lives.

Friendship

We aim to be a place where people of many cultures and backgrounds can meet and mix in an atmosphere of friendship and engagement. At our Wednesday meal we often have students from every continent coming along — and trying out each other's food!

Faith provision

We host a variety of student faith groups as well as providing a Sunday interdenominational worship service at 11.30am, throughout the year. There is also a Roman Catholic vigil mass on Saturdays at 6.00pm during semester. We are glad to provide information about non-Christian religions.

Finding out for yourself

In a university like Heriot-Watt, with its strong emphasis on science, people often think that science has explained away God. I beg to disagree, and would be happy to give you the reasons! We hold various discussions throughout the year, culminating in the university's Annual Chaplaincy Lecture in February.

Rev. Dr. Alistair Donald, Full-time Chaplain to the University 

Rev Dr Alistair Donald has a PhD in environmental science, and worked in that field in both Wales and Scotland before training to be a Church of Scotland minister. He has a strong interest in the relationship between science and Christian faith. He is also available to students and staff to discuss matters of faith or any other personal matters, with complete confidentiality assured.