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.
Saturday, 29th November 2025 - Day of Intercession and Thanksgiving for the Missionary Work of the Church
The Collect of the Day:
Eternal Father, whose Son Jesus Christ ascended to the throne of heaven that he might rule over all things as Lord and King: keep the Church in the unity of the Spirit and in the bond of peace, and bring the whole created order to worship at his feet; who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
From Common Worship
A Prayer for all those affected by the recent fire in the Tai Po district of Hong Kong:
Most merciful God, who blesses and comforts those who mourn, have mercy on the people who have lost their loved ones to the Tai Po fire; comfort their troubled spirit, and embrace them with your love in this dark hour, that they may not fall into despair.
O Lord, comfort also all those who have yet to know the whereabouts of their loved ones, who are now burdened with worry; calm their souls as you calmed the waves, that they may have hope in the face of the unknown.
Grant strength and safety to all those who are working on the front lines, racing against the clock – the firefighters, the search and rescue teams, the medical workers, the police officers, the social workers, and all the volunteers at the supply lines and shelters – may their love for others reach those in need, and may they return home safely.
And we pray for the people of Hong Kong, for resilience in the face of this tragedy, and for loving fellowship between neighbour and neighbour, that they may lend a helping hand to the afflicted, making known the love of Christ where it is needed most.
This we pray in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
From Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hei - The Hong Kong Anglican Church (Episcopal)
A Collect for the Day of Intercession and Thanksgiving for the Missionary Work of the Church:Almighty God, who called your Church to witness that in Christ you were reconciling the world to yourself: help us so to proclaim the good news of your love, that all who hear it may be reconciled to you through him who died for us and rose again and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
From Common WorshipA Prayer for those who have Lost Hope:
Heavenly Father, we lift up those whose hearts are heavy and spirits are dimmed. For those who feel they have lost hope, we pray you reach them with your comfort and strength. Remind them they are not alone, and surround them with your peace that surpasses understanding. If they cannot find the words to pray, let them know you still hear the cries of their hearts. Bring light into their darkness, provide a sense of your presence, and grant them a reason to hold on. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Original Source Unknown
St Oswald's, Durham Charity No. 1196296
