The latest news from across the Diocese of Durham.
Contact the Communications Team regarding a news story or press release.
Diocesan News
Grace Church celebrates first anniversary following year of growth
First published on: 14th May 2026Grace Church, a new worshipping community which meets at St Nicholas, Boldon Colliery within The Benefice of The Boldons, marked its first anniversary last weekend, celebrating a year of significant growth to become an encouraging expression of Christian faith and community life.
Children’s Ministry Networks are growing across the Diocese
First published on: 14th May 2026Children’s ministry can feel isolating — but it doesn’t have to be. Following a diocesan listening exercise, one message came through clearly: those serving children and families want greater connection, encouragement and support. In response, the first Children’s Ministry Network launched in Stockton Deanery in October 2025 — and it’s already becoming a thriving learning community.
Bishop's Advisors for Diversity and Racial Justice attend Royal Garden Party
First published on: 12th May 2026The Diocese’s Bishop’s Advisors for Diversity and Racial Justice attended the King’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday, 6 May, after being nominated in recognition of their contribution to diocesan life.
Consecration of The Venerable Rick Simpson as Bishop of Durham
First published on: 30th April 2026The Venerable Rick Simpson has been consecrated as Bishop of Durham during a service at York Minster today.
New family offering at St Gabriel’s in Sunderland
First published on: 21st April 2026Children and parents are thriving at a Sunderland church following the introduction of dedicated family services.
Durham Lesotho Link celebrates its 40th anniversary
First published on: 21st April 2026The Durham Lesotho Link is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, marking four decades of partnership between the Diocese of Durham and its link diocese in Lesotho.
Mission Enabler reaches out into her new community
First published on: 21st April 2026The latest addition to the team at Sunderland Minster has declared “it’s an exciting time” to be part of church and community life in the city.
Dame Sarah Mullally installed as Archbishop of Canterbury
First published on: 26th March 2026On Wednesday 25 March, the Installation of the Most Revd and Right Hon Dame Sarah Mullally as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury took place at Canterbury Cathedral.
North East organisations unite to tackle food insecurity
First published on: 25th March 2026Over 100 people gathered on Saturday 14 March to consider how we move ‘Beyond Foodbanks.’ The summit, jointly organised by Communities Together Durham and Food Durham brought together over 30 different organisations from across the North East.
Metal thefts cause £22k worth of damage at historic church
First published on: 24th March 2026A Durham church is counting the cost after ruthless thieves stole lead from the roof in three separate incidents.
