The latest news from across the Diocese of Durham.
Contact the Communications Team regarding a news story or press release.
Diocesan News
Return of popular Christmas tree festival
First published on: 25th November 2025Sedgefield’s much-loved Christmas Tree Festival is set to return for its fifth time, with organisers reporting an enthusiastic response from community groups. “We are delighted that 35 groups have responded so positively to the theme of ‘Christmas Stories / Christmas Books’,” said committee member Michael King.
150th anniversary celebration for St Simon's
First published on: 17th November 2025On the 26th October St Simon’s South Shields, which is now part of the Parish of Jarrow and Simonside, celebrated 150 years since the original parish of St Simon’s was created.
Stranton Bells ring out to launch 900th anniversary celebrations
First published on: 13th November 2025The sound of celebration filled the air in Hartlepool on the evening of 1st November, as the eight bells of Stranton All Saints Church rang out to mark the launch of a year-long programme of events celebrating the church’s 900th anniversary.
Bishop Sarah's Presidential Address at Diocesan Synod
First published on: 8th November 2025Read Bishop Sarah's full Presidential Address, given at Diocesan Synod on Saturday 8 November, below (or watch above).
Paper prayers take flight in Pelton
First published on: 6th November 2025Holy Trinity Church, Pelton, has unveiled a striking new art installation of origami doves - each one carrying a handwritten prayer from local schoolchildren, congregation members and visitors.
GATHER Church Teesdale launches wellbeing partnership with The Hearth
First published on: 24th October 2025GATHER Church Teesdale has announced a new partnership with The Hearth, part of The Auckland Project in Bishop Auckland, to promote wellbeing through a series of pilgrimage experiences each year. The initiative is designed especially for caregivers and those living with mental and emotional health challenges.
St Cuthbert’s Church in Darlington embarks on major transformation
First published on: 23rd October 2025St Cuthbert’s Church in Darlington is set to embark on a major transformative project as part of its vision to revitalise the historic building into an open, accessible and dynamic community hub of worship, culture and mission.
Affordable pizzas for all in Pennywell
First published on: 22nd October 2025A tasty new food initiative is making sure everyone in a Sunderland neighbourhood can enjoy a Friday night takeaway treat.
Northumbria In Bloom award for Willington churchyard
First published on: 22nd October 2025A church in Durham Diocese has scooped another major award in less than a year.
Youth Saints still going strong after nine joyful years
First published on: 17th October 2025The Youth Saints group at St Mary’s Church, Gainford, continues to thrive as it celebrates nine years. The group is expressing deep gratitude for God’s blessings and praise over the years — from the dedicated leaders God has provided, to the families and children they have come to know well.
