A church A church

Churches and worshipping communities

The Diocese of Chelmsford brings together more than 500 Church of England churches and worshipping communities across Essex and East London.

We are the second largest Diocese in the country in terms of population serving a population of more than 3 million people. We celebrate our huge diversity in terms of geography, demography, ethnicity, culture and church tradition.

A church near you 

Wherever you live, there is a Church of England church that is always there for you through life’s biggest moments – and at other times togo.  

Serving local communities

Our churches and worshipping communities are at the heart of their local communities across Essex and East London. This has particularly been the case in recent years as many of our communities have faced extraordinary challenges as a consequence of the COVID 19 pandemic and the current cost of living crisis. 

The news stories below provide an example of the work that they do. 


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Latest news from our churches and schools

women's priests 1994

Celebrating the thirtieth anniversary of the first ordination of women to the priesthood in Chelmsford Diocese

30 April 2024

The 30th April 2024 marks 30 years since the first women were ordained as priests in Chelmsford Diocese. To celebrate this important milestone, we have produced a video looking back on that time with a message for those considering ordained ministry today.

Honorary Canons

Collation, Installation and Admission of Canons

28 April 2024

On Sunday 28 April, people from across the Diocese gathered at Chelmsford Cathedral for the Collation, Installation and Admission of 33 Canons. 

Growing Good at Christchurch Three Mills

Growing Good at Christchurch Three Mills

15 April 2024

The Growing Good Toolkit is a free six session course helping churches explore the connection between social action, discipleship…

Philip, David and Vevet

Maundy Money awarded in recognition of outstanding Christian service

28 March 2024

Her Majesty The Queen presented Maundy Money to three recipients from Chelmsford Diocese at this year’s annual Royal Maundy Service.

Street Pastors

Street Pastors: Bringing an expression of God’s love to our communities

22 March 2024

Mike Tricker, Licenced Lay Minister (LLM) in the Parish of Wickford and Runwell is also a Street and Rail Pastor.

Mark Spencer Ellis

Chaplaincy at Snaresbrook Crown Court

20 March 2024

Mark Spencer Ellis writes about his chaplaincy role which involves supporting those who visit and work at Snaresbrook Crown Court.