The Christian Faith

Christians believe in One God who has revealed Himself as Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  God is the Creator of all that exists.  In Jesus, He enters fully into humanity. Jesus is raised from the dead and the power of sin and death are broken.  Christians share in His Risen Life through faith. The Holy Spirit is the power of God who works through human weakness. 

Worship, and especially the Eucharist, is central to Christian life. Prayer is fundamental to discipleship. The Bible is regarded as the basis of belief but understanding of authority may differ.  Christians have a personal commitment to Jesus as Lord and Saviour. Christians commend the Gospel to all. Justice, care for the poor and the environment are central to Christianity.

Christians in York

 
Christians of many traditions are present in York and increasingly work together whenever possible. York Minster is the most famous of many ancient churches here. The system of parishes (especially Church of England and Roman Catholic) means that clergy are charged with providing pastoral care for all residents and visitors. Christian involvement can be seen in Church schools and by Christian staff in LEAs and private schools. York St John University is a Church of England College welcoming all comers and respecting diversity. The chaplaincy is ecumenical, as is that at the University. Christian chaplains are to be found in hospitals, prisons and many areas of city life. Christians take initiatives in building trust between people of world faiths in the city.

The Christian Advisers

Bishop David and Mrs Mary Smith are Christian members of YSJ’s Spiritual Care Team. Mary was a magistrate in Bradford for 13 years and part of the multi-faith chaplaincy team in Bradford Royal Infirmary. She has worked with the Citizens Advice Bureau in Northumberland and Kent. David served for 28 years in the Diocese of Newcastle before becoming Bishop of Maidstone. From 1990 – 1992 he was also Bishop to HM Forces. From 1992 – 2002 he was Bishop of Bradford. Mary and David were both greatly involved in multi-faith and multi-racial work in Bradford and also visited Sudan and Pakistan.

Mary is a lay visitor for the chaplaincy at York General Hospital and a volunteer at the York Hospice.  David is a Governor of YSJ and Chair of the Trustees.

Christians of many different variations and denominations are present in York and in the city you will find plenty of churches, some with large and vibrant student populations. Click here for more information about connecting with a church in York, as well as details of other local events for Christian students.

University of York Chaplain website.