Children and Families at the University Church

Children of all ages and families of all shapes and sizes are valued members of the worshipping community at St Mary’s. 

During the 10:30am service, there is a crêche space available with a selection of books and toys, in the Newman Room (behind the glass brick wall) next door to the baby changing facilities. Families are welcome to use this space for as much or as little of the service as they wish; the service can be heard via speaker in the Newman Room. Breast/chest feeding is welcome in all parts of the church. Noise cancelling headphones are available on request.

Godly Play (3-10)

Godly Play takes place monthly in the Old Library on the first Sunday of the month during the first 45 minutes of the 10.30am Sung Eucharist. It offers an open-ended approach to biblical stories with an emphasis on encouraging children’s innate spirituality through creative exploration.

Saplings (primary school age)

Saplings is our new monthly group in the Old Library on the third Sunday of the month, beginning on the 17th August 2025. It is a child-led initiative and will offer opportunities to explore Christian teaching through movement, storytelling, drama and craft.

Special Events

We hold workshops and interactive drop-in events at key times throughout the Christian year. Please consult the What’s On Guide and Calendar for our latest events.

If you have any questions, or would like to discuss particular pastoral/inclusion needs, please contact the Revd Sorrel Shamel-Wood, our Children, Schools and Families Chaplain: sorrel.shamel-wood@universitychurch.ox.ac.uk