Welcome to The Orwell and Deben Rural Benefice, a multi-parish benefice of eight churches situated in beautiful countryside between the River Deben and the River Orwell in East Suffolk. All eight of our village churches are medieval listed buildings with fascinating histories which have been used for prayer and worship for six centuries, or more. Each church is open every day and sits at the heart of its own village community. While retaining our individual identities, all the churches work in collaboration with one another in the benefice, fully supported by the Rector and an experienced Ministry team. The current service pattern enables each church to have two services each month: Morning Prayer and Holy Communion. On the fifth Sunday a Benefice service is held in one of the churches in rotation. There is a growing readiness within the congregations to travel between the parishes for services, bible study and fund raising events.
The Orwell and Deben Rural Benefice is committed to the safeguarding of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We follow the House of Bishops guidance and policies and have our own Parish Safeguarding Officers, (PSOs). The Diocese of St.Edmundsbury & Ipswich’s Safeguarding pages contain vital links and information including contacts for the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor (DSA) who advise our PSOs. If you are concerned that a child or adult has been harmed or may be at risk of harm please contact the DSA. If you have immediate concerns about the safety of someone, please contact the police and the relevant local authority Children or Adults Services.