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, 22nd November 2025 - The Commemoration of St Cecilia, Martyr at Rome, c.230
The Collect of the Day:
Heavenly Father, whose blessed Son was revealed to destroy the works of the devil and to make us the children of God and heirs of eternal life: grant that we, having this hope, may purify ourselves even as he is pure; that when he shall appear in power and great glory we may be made like him in his eternal and glorious kingdom; where he is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
From Common Worship
The Collect for St Cecilia:
Gracious God, whose servant Cecilia served you in song: Grant us to join her hymn of praise to you in the face of all adversity, and to suffer gladly for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
From The Book of Common Prayer according to the use of the Episcopal Church
A prayer for people who spend their time caring for others:
Loving God, we acknowledge you as the exemplar of being our lifelong carer. May your presence as the ultimate carer surround those who provide care. May their selfless giving, compassion and care by enlivened and enriched by your Spirit and the inspiration of your sacrificial love. Help those who care to seek your face, build connections that are mutually enriching, and stay the course even in times of loneliness, grief, rejection, and frustration. Help others to see and recognise carers for all they do for our most vulnerable- in love duty and responsibility. Amen.
From Embracing Ministries within the Anglican Diocese of Canberra & Goulburn, part of the Anglican Church of Australia
St Oswald's, Durham Charity No. 1196296
