Franciscan Seminar Series

Franciscan Seminar Series – 2026

To mark the 800^th anniversary of the death of St Francis, the Franciscan Friars in Durham are pleased to offer a series of three seminars on Franciscan themes for the parishioners.

These gatherings will provide an opportunity to reflect more deeply on the spirituality and legacy of St. Francis in a welcoming and prayerful setting.

The seminars will take place at the friary on the following Tuesdays:

·        12 May

·        23 June

·        22 September

Each session will begin at 7:00pm and will last for approximately one hour.

All are warmly invited to attend.

No Children's Liturgy this weekend at St Joseph's

Children’s Liturgy – St. Joseph’s

Please note that there will not be Children’s Liturgy this week, and it will resume on Sunday 3^rd May. 

We would love some more volunteers to join our small team of children’s liturgists at St. Joseph’s 10.30am Mass on Sunday mornings. 

Even if you’re not sure but would like to know more, we’re happy to answer any questions you may have

Diocesan Questionnaire and Bishop Stephen's Pastoral Strategy

Thank you to all parishioners who responded to the diocesan mission discernment questionnaires. 135 written responses were received, each with rich comments and valuable food for thought. As well as sending a reflection on the responses to our diocese, the parish council will use the ideas and comments received to inform future planning for our parish.  In reviewing the questionnaires, it was incredible to see how many groups and events are thriving as a consequence of the hard work and devotion of parishioners.

Thank you to everyone who continues to contribute so generously. Whilst the future of all Catholic communities remains uncertain, it is very clear that the Parish of the Durham Martyrs will continue to grow and flourish because of the dedication, positivity and commitment of our congregation.

Further details of the responses will be shared in due course by the Core Group of the Parish Council.

Message from Bishop Stephen – Pastoral Strategy

Thank you to all parishes who have completed and returned their reflections as part of our diocesan pastoral strategy. I, together with others, look forward to reading and praying through your discernments in the Spirit.

It is not too late for returns to be made if you are yet to submit.  

We next move to a second phase as we invite local parishes to discern together in their partnerships, or with others in their neighbouring area. Information and updates will be shared on our website.

Please keep this discernment in your prayers as we seek to respond to the Lord’s call to worship Him and serve our communities in a flourishing and sustainable manner.