Who We Are and What We Do

The Society of the Sacred Mission (SSM) is an Anglican Religious Order founded by Fr Herbert Kelly in 1893, and perhaps best known in connection with Kelham Theological College (1903-1972). Since its inception, its aims have been ‘to increase the number of those who give their lives to the Divine Service’, ‘to labour for the conversion and perfection of souls’, and ‘to have regard for the cultivation of Divine Science’.

Today the operations of SSM are centred at St Antony’s Priory, Durham, which offers spiritual accompaniment and training for spiritual directors, hospitality for groups and individuals, and a varying programme of other activities. The Priory is also home to the Herbert Kelly Institute for Anglican religious life, providing an extensive theological library, archival and research resources and regular speaker events. Overnight accommodation is available in the Cottage guesthouse, which has four self-catering rooms for people wishing to spend a few days on retreat.

There is a full timetable of weekday and Sunday services in the chapel (which members of the public are very welcome to attend), as well as the principal festivals of the Christian year. Our worship is in the catholic tradition of the Church of England, and includes significant periods of silent prayer. Please note that if attending services outside of normal office hours (e.g. on a Sunday or in the evening) it will be necessary to access the Chapel via the outside steps.