Chaplains and Faith Advisors
Revd Dr Piotr Ashwin-Siejkowski
Coordinating Chaplain and Interfaith Advisor (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday)
Piotr.Ashwin-Siejkowski@brunel.ac.uk
+44 (0)1895 267552
Piotr was born and brought up in Poland, however he is Anglican priest. Piotr is available to all students and staff on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. He runs our Wellbeing/Spirituality Book Club (Monday), Christian Prayer Group (Tuesday) and Movie Club (Friday). Among many of his interests are history of early Christianity, New Testament and the biblical languages.
Rabbi Gavin Broder
University Jewish Chaplain - London Region (The London University Jewish Chaplain is situated in London but works closely with the Brunel Chaplains)
rabbibroder@mychaplaincy.co.uk
+44 (0)7811286664
www.mychaplaincy.co.uk
Gavin 'Rav Gav' Broder - Facebook
Rabbi Gavin Broder (fondly known as Rav Gav) arrived in London in 2000 after serving as the Chief Rabbi of Ireland and working as a rabbi in three other Jewish communities. Born in South Africa, he’s raised five sons and also has three grandchildren. Rav Gav works across all London universities and is available to support staff and students at Brunel.
Paola Gotti Morgan
I am Paola, a Catholic wife and mum. I have been part of the Movement 'Communion and Liberation' since my early teenage years, a community where I've discovered the possibility of a personal relationship with Christ.
In His companionship, through every day reality and with the Church, I am discovering who I am and that everyone and anyone's heart is made for nothing less than Happiness, Truth and fulfilment.
As a chaplain, I am eager to offer my support to whoever, of any faith or no faith, wants to share questions, struggles, and discoveries.
Please, come and see me every Monday at Brunel University, The Meeting House, 9-4pm, or contact me at paola.gotti-morgan@brunel.ac.uk
Faith advisors
Dr Antoifi Abdoulhalik
Antoifi is our Muslim Faith Advisor
Mandhir Gill
My current role is Head of Quality Assurance within the Directorate of Student and Academic Services. Having been an active member of my local Sikh community for many years, I have had the privilege of not only living by the teachings of Sikhism but also sharing these profound principles through various roles, including teaching at community classes and leading youth groups. My journey has been deeply enriched by the values of equality, service, and the pursuit of spiritual growth, which are central to Sikhism.
My cultural background and personal interests have led me to explore and gain substantial knowledge about Hinduism. This has equipped me with a unique perspective on the commonalities and distinct characteristics of both faiths, enabling me to foster a deeper understanding and respect among individuals from diverse religious backgrounds.
I am keen to bring my passion for spiritual guidance, interfaith dialogue, and community service to the team. I believe in the power of faith to inspire positive change, promote mental and spiritual well-being, and build bridges between different community groups. With my experience in facilitating religious events, leading educational sessions, and providing pastoral care, I am confident in my ability to support and enrich the spiritual life of our community.
My commitment to promoting inclusivity and respect for all faiths aligns with Brunel’s values. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to a supportive and vibrant community where students and staff of all backgrounds feel valued and understood.
Senani Thotabaduge
I work as the Corporate Systems Manager in Information Systems at present. I have worked in Brunel Information Systems for the last 17 years.
I am from Kandy, Sri Lanka, with a comprehensive education in Buddhism with culture and tradition, I am honoured to serve as a Faith Advisor for Buddhism at Brunel University London. My role allows me to guide and support the university community in spiritual and ethical matters, drawing on the rich teachings and practices of Buddhism.
Peter Jelfs
I joined Brunel in 2020 and am Professor of Accounting in the Business School. I will be one of the Faith Advisors representing the Christian faith.
Chaplaincy
The Chaplaincy is both a place and a team of people. We offer opportunities for students and staff to unwind and to explore faith and spirituality. We support students and staff of all faiths and none, welcoming everyone regardless of belief or background.
Where to meet us
The Meeting House is a dedicated space unlike anything else on campus. When you step through the door you immediately step away from the pressure of university life. Here you can slow down, soak in the peace of the Quiet Room or enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the lounge area – all for free! The Meeting House is generally open Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 16:00 during term time.Chaplains are available to offer a listening ear, personal help and advice, and spiritual support. You will always be met with a warm welcome and a respectful attitude. You don’t need to make an appointment – simply drop-by and enjoy the sanctuary offered. One-to-one appointments can also be scheduled if preferred via email (meeting-house@brunel.ac.uk) or by referral from the Student Welfare Team (studentsupport@brunel.ac.uk).
Prayer Spaces
We’re committed to supporting the faith and spiritual needs of everyone at Brunel. We know that for many students and staff practising their religious devotion throughout the day is fundamentally important to who they are. This contributes to the rich diversity of our community, and we have appropriate prayer facilities on campus for this purpose. We have a multifaith prayer space, based mid-campus in Hamilton 004; dedicated Muslim prayer rooms with ablution facilities in the Isambard Amenity Building and a small prayer space in the Meeting House (no ablution facilities). Muslim Friday prayers usually take place in the Netball Hall. Please note this may occasionally vary depending on sports and event bookings. Weekly location announcements are communicated through relevant student communication channels.
Quiet room
The Quiet Room in the Meeting House is a small, peaceful room which is available for prayer, meditation and reflection, or just to be alone. This space is open to all faiths and world views — users are asked to maintain silence and respect while inside.You can use this space to pray, meditate or just sit and gather your thoughts away from the clamour of daily life.
If you would like to book a specific time to use the Quiet Room, contact: meeting-house@brunel.ac.uk
Community
It is important to feel a sense of belonging, especially when you’re far from home and sometimes living in a different country. New friends can be made and existing relationships deepened through the many and varied activities hosted at the Meeting House. Not all of these have a religious nature but help all to feel part of the Brunel community as a home from home.