The Orwell and Deben Rural Benefice

Welcome to The Orwell and Deben Rural Benefice, a multi-parish benefice of eight churches situated in beautiful rural countryside between the River Orwell and the River Deben 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 his Ministry team. 

We welcome without reservation anyone who wishes to join us for worship at any of our services.

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. 

What's on

RIDE and STRIDE 2026

Occurring
Saturday 12 September 2026 Saturday at for 8 hours
Venue
Address

All 8 Benefice churches

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Our churches

Safeguarding

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.

Full information about safeguarding in our church can be found in our safeguarding tab.

Safeguarding advice lines