News - Diocese of Durham

Auckland Deanery gathers for Away Day focused on unity

First published on: 17th September 2026

Auckland Deanery gathered at St Brandon’s Church, Brancepeth, on Saturday 12 September for an Away Day to welcome the start of the new triennium and bring together new and returning Deanery members.

Stranton Church celebrates 900th anniversary with tower abseil

First published on: 25th August 2026

All Saints Stranton, Hartlepool, continued its 900th anniversary celebrations on Saturday 11 July with a sponsored abseil from the church tower. Twenty-three brave members of the church and local community, aged from six to over 70, took up the challenge and abseiled down the historic tower.

Church breakfast sparks new community partnerships

First published on: 21st May 2026

At 8am on Wednesday 13 May, St Mary and St Cuthbert’s in Chester-le-Street hosted a Community Networking Breakfast, bringing together 32 representatives from across the local area alongside a team of 15 church volunteers.

GATHER Church Teesdale launches wellbeing partnership with The Hearth

First published on: 24th October 2025

GATHER 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 2025

St 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.

Youth Saints still going strong after nine joyful years

First published on: 17th October 2025

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.

Northern Lights shine bright at sold-out debut concert

First published on: 23rd July 2025

The Northern Lights Community Choir, launched in January 2025, held its much-anticipated debut concert on Sunday, 13 July at St Mark’s Church, Darlington. The sell-out event, attended by over 200 people, was a joyful celebration of music, community and wellbeing.