STUDENTS & YOUNG ADULTS
St Columba's URC warmly welcomes students & young adults (18 - 35 year olds). Below are some ways in which this age group can participate in the life of our church.
Social activities
The students and young adults at St Columba's URC often have lunch together on Sundays.
Student Outreach Worker
Kirsty Smith
Student Outreach Worker
Kirsty Smith is our new student outreach worker - Kirsty works part time across St Columba's URC, New Road Baptist Church and Wesley Memorial Methodist Church and provides pastoral support for students along with helping to create a welcoming environment. She graduated from Oxford in 2023 with a BA in Geography so understands some of the struggles with balancing academic pressures with the rest of student life. Kirsty is very passionate about creating opportunities for students in Oxford to find Christian community in safe and inclusive spaces. In her spare time she enjoys singing, often performing in the Wesley Memorial Choir, and is a proud supporter of Sunderland AFC.
Contact email: studentoutreach@saintcolumbas.org
Phone number: 07441 123060
Pastoral care and support
Our Minister and Elders provide pastoral care and support to the students & young adults of St Columba's URC, with each individual being assigned an Elder.
Leading worship services
Throughout the academic year, there are usually three services led by the students and/or young adults of St Columba's URC. These provide opportunities for individuals to write & preach sermons, write & lead prayers, and choose the content & style of the service. These services are normally preceded by a planning and preparation event, which includes food.
Chaplaincy to students in the reformed tradition
Part of our Minister's duties is chaplaincy to students in Oxford whose church life/faith is in the reformed tradition. She is willing to give talks for students at colleges and other places of student gathering around Oxford.