We are a Church of England parish with a strong tradition of music in worship, where all are very welcome. As an ancient Church in the centre of Durham, St Oswald's is a reservoir of peace for all who enter it.
The Sunday Eucharist is at 11 am, and we have a play and books corner by the font for any younger worshipper who feels a parent or carer would enjoy it there. Evensong is at 6 pm on Sundays, either in the chancel, or roughly every other week during term time when the usual hymns expand to a full choral setting, in the body of the church. Midweek Holy Communion is at 10 am on Wednesdays, and the church is usually open from 9:30 am till round about 5 pm (or dusk, if earlier) on weekdays.
The latest editions of the weekly news-sheet and music notes are in the 'News' tab, and please ask if you'd like to join the mailing list. Here are links to bell ringing and
choir and concert info. We have a strong connection with
St Oswald's Primary and Nursery School, and with our neighbouring parishes within the Benefice of The Three Saints;
St Mary's Shincliffe,
St Mary's Coxhoe and
St Helen's Kelloe.
Friday, 12th December 2025 - Advent; Ember Day
The Collect of the Day:
O Lord, raise up, we pray, your power and come among us, and with great might succour us; that whereas, through our sins and wickedness we are grievously hindered in running the race that is set before us, your bountiful grace and mercy may speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, to whom with you and the Holy Spirit, be honour and glory, now and for ever.
Amen.
Common Worship.
A Prayer for All Whose Lives are Devastated by War and Civil Strife :
Compassionate God and Creator of all, we are horrified at violence in so many parts of the world. It seems that none are safe and some are terrified. Hold back the hands that kill or maim; turn around the hearts that hate. Grant instead your strong Spirit of Peace – that peace which passes our understanding, but changes lives. Through Jesus Christ, our Saviour.
Amen.
The Anglican Church in Menorca, Part of the Diocese in Europe of the Church of England.
A Prayer for the Season of Advent:
Jesus, hope of the nations, Jesus, comfort for all who mourn, You are the source of Heaven’s hope on earth.
Jesus, light in the darkness, Jesus, truth in each circumstance, You are the source of Heaven’s light on earth.
In history You lived and died, You broke the chains, You rose to life.
You are the hope living in us, You are the rock in whom we trust, You are the light shining for all the world to see.
You rose from the dead conquering fear, our Prince of Peace drawing us near, Jesus our hope, living for all who will receive, Lord, we believe.
Dear God, thank you that Christmas is a time of hope. Thank you that you sent Jesus at Christmas to give us the hope that the world can be a better place. Please help us to play our part in bringing hope and peace to the world.
Amen.
World Day of Prayer - England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
St Oswald's, Durham Charity No. 1196296
