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.

Thursday, 4th December 2025 - Advent: The Commemoration of St John of Damascus, Monk, Teacher of the Faith, c.749; The Commemoration of Nicholas Ferrar, Deacon, Founder of the Little Gidding Community, 1637

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 Collect for the Commemoration of St John of Damascus:

Confirm our minds, O Lord, in the mysteries of the true faith, set forth with power by your servant John of Damascus; that we, with him, confessing Jesus to be true God and true Man, and singing the praises of the risen Lord, may, by the power of the resurrection, attain to eternal joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for evermore. Amen.

The Book of Common Prayer According to the Use of the Episcopal Church

A Collect for the Commemoration of Nicholas Gerrard:

Loving God, the Father of all, whose servant Nicholas Ferrar renounced ambition and wealth to live in a household of faith and good work: keep us in the right way of service to you so that, feasting at the table in your household, we may proclaim each day the coming of your kingdom; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

The Book of Common Prayer According to the Use of the Episcopal Church

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