Shoeboxes from St George’s – church continues to support disadvantaged children
First published on: 27th November 2025A Sunderland church is continuing a 35-year-old tradition of supporting disadvantaged children in the run-up to Christmas.
News
Return of popular Christmas tree festival
First published on: 25th November 2025Sedgefield’s much-loved Christmas Tree Festival is set to return for its fifth time, with organisers reporting an enthusiastic response from community groups. “We are delighted that 35 groups have responded so positively to the theme of ‘Christmas Stories / Christmas Books’,” said committee member Michael King.
Stranton Bells ring out to launch 900th anniversary celebrations
First published on: 13th November 2025The sound of celebration filled the air in Hartlepool on the evening of 1st November, as the eight bells of Stranton All Saints Church rang out to mark the launch of a year-long programme of events celebrating the church’s 900th anniversary.
Paper prayers take flight in Pelton
First published on: 6th November 2025Holy Trinity Church, Pelton, has unveiled a striking new art installation of origami doves - each one carrying a handwritten prayer from local schoolchildren, congregation members and visitors.
GATHER Church Teesdale launches wellbeing partnership with The Hearth
First published on: 24th October 2025GATHER Church Teesdale has announced a new partnership with The Hearth, part of The Auckland Project in Bishop Auckland, to promote wellbeing through a series of pilgrimage experiences each year. The initiative is designed especially for caregivers and those living with mental and emotional health challenges.
Affordable pizzas for all in Pennywell
First published on: 22nd October 2025A tasty new food initiative is making sure everyone in a Sunderland neighbourhood can enjoy a Friday night takeaway treat.
Northumbria In Bloom award for Willington churchyard
First published on: 22nd October 2025A church in Durham Diocese has scooped another major award in less than a year.
Youth Saints still going strong after nine joyful years
First published on: 17th October 2025The Youth Saints group at St Mary’s Church, Gainford, continues to thrive as it celebrates nine years. The group is expressing deep gratitude for God’s blessings and praise over the years — from the dedicated leaders God has provided, to the families and children they have come to know well.
St Michael & All Angels Church at the heart of Houghton Feast!
First published on: 10th October 2025To celebrate this year's centuries-old Houghton Feast, a group of crafters have come together to create a fabric map of the historic town - stitched with the places, memories and moments that mean the most to the community. The annual 10-day festival, with its rich history dating back to the 12th century, began life as a dedication to the parish church of St Michael & All Angels, which was celebrated at Michaelmas and the ancient church continues to be at the heart of Houghton Feast.
Sing and Shout! There’s a new children’s choir in town
First published on: 17th September 2025A new choir has been launched at St Cuthbert’s Church in Darlington to provide exciting opportunities for children.
