The latest news from across the Diocese of Durham.
Contact the Communications Team regarding a news story or press release.
Diocesan News
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.
Rick Simpson elected by College of Canons as the next Bishop of Durham
First published on: 12th March 2026On Wednesday 11 March, the College of Canons of Durham Cathedral formally elected the Venerable Rick Simpson as the next Bishop of Durham at a historic ceremony at Durham Cathedral.
A prayer for Iran
First published on: 9th March 2026A prayer for Iran by the Rt Revd Dr Guli Francis-Dehqani, Bishop of Chelmsford
Revd Canon Dr Jennifer Cooper to be next Canon Chancellor of St Albans Cathedral
First published on: 8th March 2026The Revd Canon Dr Jennifer Cooper, currently Director of Initial Ministerial Education (IME) in the dioceses of Durham and Newcastle, is to be the next Canon Chancellor of St Albans Cathedral.
Young adults gather for ONE WAY conference
First published on: 5th March 2026From 27–28 February, around 150 students and young adults from 14 churches across the North East gathered for the ONE WAY Conference, an ecumenical event bringing together Christian student and young adult communities with a shared heart for church unity.
Stepping Out of the Noise: Join the March 13th Pilgrimage
First published on: 27th February 2026The partnership between GATHER, The Hearth, and The Auckland Project has matured over the last two years into a reliable rhythm of pilgrimage. We are excited to share a new experience day this spring as we return to Bishop Auckland on March 13th. There is a genuine sense of anticipation from our team about journeying alongside those who attend; we've seen firsthand how these days foster deep connection, and the feedback from past events continues to be a real encouragement.
The Venerable Rick Simpson to be the next Bishop of Durham
First published on: 19th February 2026Downing Street has announced that His Majesty the King has approved the appointment of the Venerable Rick Simpson, currently Archdeacon of Auckland, as the next Bishop of Durham.
Stranton Church celebrates weddings through the years
First published on: 29th January 2026All Saints Stranton is marking its 900th anniversary with a special exhibition celebrating weddings held at the church over the years.
Narrow defeat on Gladiators was still a victory for curate Rachael
First published on: 29th January 2026A curate in Durham Diocese has expressed her joy after excelling on BBC TV show Gladiators.
