Members of churches from across Teesdale and Weardale gathered at a special service to celebrate the creation of a new deanery.
The service took place at St Mary’s Parish Church, Barnard Castle on Tuesday 7 May. It was led by Revd Alec Harding, Area Dean, alongside lay and ordained colleagues from across the new area.
Bell ringers from both dales rang the congregation into church in celebration.
The new deanery brings together the two most rural parts of Durham Diocese, stretching from Gainford, up Teesdale and across into Weardale. It embraces the Gaunless Valley and parishes from Wolsingham to the top of Weardale at Heatherycleugh.
Parishes from the former Stanhope Deanery have been embraced by the deaneries of Bishop Auckland and Barnard Castle.
The creation of a new, larger deanery allows the placement of resources and people where they are needed most, to allow our parishes to flourish and grow in faith, and to be sustainable for generations to come.
After the service, members of the congregation voted on what the new deanery should be called with the most votes being cast for ‘Durham Dales’.
Revd Alec Harding said: “There’s no denying that our rural churches are under extreme pressure at the moment with small congregations, fewer clergy, increased administration and diminished resources to care for buildings. That said, despite all our challenges, hopeful Christian people across the Dales continue to offer faithful service to their communities and the deanery can help us to support one another.”
The amalgamation has been welcomed by parishioners who see it as a positive step in working together to share challenges and experiences:
“I'm excited to join; lovely to join our new friends in Weardale.” Sue, Gainford Parish
“I'm looking forward to working together.” Geoff, Gainford Parish
“We are similar rural areas with similar concerns and ministry.” Clare, Gainford Parish
“I'm in total agreement and looking forward to working together.” Kathleen, Stanhope Parish
“It is a positive move forward.” Sue, Heatherlyclough
“Together we are going to succeed.” Jo, Heatherlyclough
“Rather nice - we are stronger with more of us.” Hilary, Stanhope Parish
“Happy in this new deanery.” Sheila, Stanhope Parish