The Herbert Kelly Institute for Anglican Religious Life
Since the mid-19th century Anglican religious life has flourished in many forms and made a rich, if somewhat hidden, contribution to the life of the Anglican Churches throughout the world. Although the membership of many communities may be declining within the Church of England, the religious life nevertheless represents a universal calling that continues to inspire people today.
The Herbert Kelly Institute was founded in 2025 in order to both preserve the legacy and inform the future of Anglican religious life. The work of the Institute comprises the following four strands: Library, Archives, Research and Publishing.
Library
We have an extensive theological library, spread across two sites (the Priory and the Institute), with specialisms in religious life and history, as well as related areas such as contemplative spirituality.
Archives
As well as holding a number of religious archives, we are also engaging with communities, mapping the whereabouts and contents of their archives and helping to improve catalogues, in order to build up a comprehensive database of Anglican religious archives.
Research
We are drawing together a network of scholars of religious life, monastic studies, church history and theology, in order to build relationships with partner organisations, as well as encouraging research and engagement by hosting seminars and conferences.
Publishing
The revived SSM Press will publish volumes relating to SSM, Herbert Kelly, Anglican religious life, and Christian spirituality, as well as other materials such as course handbooks and conference proceedings.
For enquiries about the Institute contact: scholastica.jacob@ssm.org.uk
We are pleased to host 'Scriptorium' at the Institute
Scriptorium is a weekly structured study day for postgraduate students, with blocks of time for independent work interspersed with brief Christian prayers and breaks for refreshments and conversation. Coffee/tea and lunch are provided. PG students of all faiths and none are very welcome.
When: Tuesdays 9am-5pm (if you can’t be there all day, that’s fine – just come for what you can).
Where: The Herbert Kelly Institute, 72 Claypath (come to the blue door and ring the bell).
Cost: Free!
Interested? Do get in touch with Rachel if you have any questions: rachel.e.lillycrop@durham.ac.uk
Speaker Events
Including termly research seminars, hosted in partnership with the Michael Ramsey Centre for Anglican Studies at the University of Durham, as well as other one-off events, such as our ‘KTC Scholars’ programme.
Please note that seminars are now held in the Institute, at 72 Claypath, which is the building on the left at the bottom of the driveway leading up to the Priory (as seen in the picture above).
2026 Programme
Wednesday 11 November, 4-5.30pm
Anglican Communion Office seminar
Canon Dr Christopher Wells
Director of Unity, Faith and Order, Anglican Communion Office
The Theological Basis of Anglican Ecclesiology
Wednesday 25 November, 4–5.30pm
Toby Donegan-Cross
Durham Priory’s Medieval Refectory
Thursday 8 April 2027
3pm Pilgrim Liturgy
Cuthbert Centre for Pilgrimage and Prayer, Durham Cathedral
4pm Rt Revd Stephen Platten
Aidan Cuthbert and Northumbrian Pilgrimage
Herbert Kelly Institute, St Antony’s Priory