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.

Friday, 5th December 2025 - Advent:

The Collect of the Day:

Almighty God, give us grace to cast away the works of darkness and to put on the armour of light, now in the time of this mortal life, in which your Son Jesus Christ came to us in great humility; that on the last day, when he shall come again in his glorious majesty to judge the living and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Common Worship

A Prayer for Refugees:

We thank you for the blessing of having refugees in England and the opportunity of sharing and learning cultures together. We pray that they feel welcomed into life here as their presence strengthens and enhances our communities. We pray for wisdom to respect diversity and to have an awareness of cultural sensitivities. We thank you for the tireless work of the volunteers and workers supporting the individuals and families, in schools, the coffee mornings and in their homes. We remember that your Son became a refugee and had no place to call his own. Inspire generosity and compassion in all our hearts so that we are fit and able to welcome our new friends into their new homes here among us. We ask this through your Name, Amen.

Together Network. Jane Yeomans, Worker at Transformation Cornwall

A Prayer of Intercession for the Leaders of the Church:

Heavenly Father, in every age you raise up pastors and leaders for your Church to reflect the light of Christ and to lead us in the way of holiness. We thank you for those who have been shepherds of your flock: bless your Church today with gifts of care and nurture, give a pastoral heart to bishops, priests and deacons, and strengthen all who are called to be leaders of your people. Lord, hear us. Lord, graciously hear us.

Common Worship