Yale Divinity School is traditionally and primarily Christian in character, yet welcoming to people of all faiths and those of no particular faith. We are Christian and inclusive, open to all denominations and perspectives.
YDS was founded as a training ground for Congregational ministers. It continues that work today, albeit in broader and more ecumenical ways. YDS alums have been and continue to be among the most prominent Christian preachers and practitioners of their time, as well as leading teachers of Christian leaders. The YDS faculty is principally drawn from the major Christian traditions, with some coming from other religious backgrounds. Students represent several dozen denominations and faith groups, and sometimes identify with no particular religious tradition. Instruction is provided in the history, doctrines, and polity of all the major church bodies.
Marquand Chapel is the spiritual heart of the Divinity School, the site of daily worship services when school is in session. From traditional worship to brave experiment, from ancient liturgy to post-modern praise, from the heart of America to global forms of worship, Marquand’s mission is to be worshipful, educational, and ecumenical. Worship in Marquand draws on a wide variety of inherited Christian traditions, with the worship of many denominations being represented.
Unlike in many university settings, prayer is common at Yale Divinity School—not just during daily worship in Marquand Chapel, but before many official meetings and other gatherings. Such prayers are usually, but not exclusively, in the Christian tradition.
Yale Divinity School welcomes students with faith backgrounds other than Christian, but it is important to know that the School’s culture is predominantly Christian.