The latest news from across the Diocese of Durham.
Contact the Communications Team regarding a news story or press release.
Diocesan News
Growing deanery networks for children and youth ministries across the Diocese
First published on: 16th July 2026There has been lots of encouraging progress as our Children and Youth Ministry deanery networks continue to grow, creating opportunities for collaboration, encouragement, and shared learning.
Volunteers get ready to serve the next generation by completing Catalyst course
First published on: 16th July 2026A celebration was held at Ridley Hall in May to present over 100 participants from around the UK with their certificates in recognition of their involvement with the Catalyst course, which aims to equip and connect those who work with children and young people in the local church.
Young people come together for Secondary Schools Pilgrimage to Holy Island
First published on: 9th July 2026More than 60 young people from Church and community schools across the Diocese gathered for this year’s Secondary Schools Pilgrimage to Holy Island, walking across the causeway together on Tuesday, 7 July.
Reflecting on Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month across our Diocese
First published on: 6th July 2026As July begins, there is much to give thanks for while reflecting on a full and meaningful Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) History Month across the Diocese of Durham.
New deacons and priests ordained
First published on: 29th June 2026Over the weekend of Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 June 2026, seven new deacons and nine new priests were ordained by Bishop Rick during services at Durham Cathedral.
World’s top 10 honour for Hartlepool church school
First published on: 25th June 2026A church school in Hartlepool has been named among the world’s top 10 for helping children to overcome significant challenges in their lives.
Lanchester EP School reach finals for two national awards for excellence
First published on: 19th June 2026Lanchester EP school has recently reached the finals for two national awards for excellence. In the first, run by the Times Educational Supplement (the TES) the voluntary controlled church school has secured a place amongst the final eight schools across the UK in the category ‘The Primary School of the Year’. For the second award run by Pearson Education, the EP school has been awarded Silver for the ‘Making a Difference - Primary School of the Year’ award.
Next Archdeacon of Auckland announced
First published on: 21st June 2026The Bishop of Durham is delighted to announce the appointment of the Revd Stephen Edmonds, currently Acting Archdeacon of Doncaster in the Diocese of Sheffield, as our next Archdeacon of Auckland.
Church of England apologises for role in post-war historical adoption practices
First published on: 18th June 2026Bishop of Durham, Rick Simpson's response following the Church of England's apology for its role in post-war historical adoption practices and support for those affected.
Durham Cathedral welcomes school leavers for 2026
First published on: 10th June 2026This week, more than 1800 year six pupils from 52 different schools have been welcomed to Durham Cathedral for leavers’ services as they prepare to transition to secondary school.
