Grace 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 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.
From 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.
The 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.
An 18-year-old musician, who started his journey aged ten as apprentice organist at St. Mary's Gainford, has been awarded a prestigious scholarship at St. David’s Cathedral in Wales.
This summer, St Alban’s Church in Windy Nook hosted a holiday club that brought children together to explore creativity, build friendships, and grow in confidence. The club was funded by the government’s Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF) and Communities Together Durham, and delivered in partnership with theatre company Damn Cheek.
Young people from across the North East took part in a Youth Assembly hosted at St Michael and All Angels Church, Houghton-le-Spring, on the anniversary of the 2024 General Election.
Students from three Church of England secondary schools across Durham Diocese recently took part in a special day of pilgrimage, walking barefoot along the ancient Pilgrim’s Way to Holy Island.
As part of the Flourish Partnership between St John’s Church and St John’s CE Primary School in Shildon, a joyful baptism recently took place within the school—an inspiring moment that reflects the strength of the growing relationship between church, school, and families.
Last week, a group of clergy gathered at the Ravensworth Arms in Lamesley for a celebration event, to mark their completion of the Launchpad programme, designed by national Christian youth work charity, Youthscape.
