ST MARY'S CHURCH is set in the beautiful moorland village of Lastingham on the southern edge of the North York Moors National Park. We are part of a family of churches, the Lastingham Benefice, in which we seek to show God's love for all in real and practical ways, learn more about the Good News of the Gospel, and be inspired by what the Holy Spirit does in our lives and in our community.
We offer a warm welcome to everyone of whatever tradition or none. Our church family is made up of all types of people, some who have been Christians for many years and others who are just starting out on the messy road of faith. And we believe that everyone is equally important to God, regardless of age and gender, and whether you regard yourself as a 'churchgoer' or not.
Founded by early saints, Lastingham has been a place of prayer, peace, hospitality and Christian mission for well over 1000 years. This beautiful ancient church of St Mary is particularly famous for its unique crypt, which was built on the site of the AD 654 monastery, and is where St Cedd is believed to be buried. You can find out more about our history in Our History.
Under normal circumstances the church would be open during daylight. However, at the present time we are unable to welcome our many visitors as we would wish to do.
The Church is open on Thursday mornings from 10am to 12noon for Private Prayer and you are welcome to visit then. We are sorry the Crypt will remain closed to the public for the time being. Sunday Eucharist will be held each Sunday at 10.45am here in Lastingham
As you come to this beautiful part of North Yorkshire, we hope that you are still able to share with us the joyous sense of peace and God's love that can be found in the heritage of centuries of Christianity in Lastingham.
We look forward to being able to welcome you back to our church when Covid-19 restrictions allow.
Covid -19 church opening restrictions
St Mary's Church Lastingham
is only open from 10am to 12noon
onThursdays for Private Prayer
Holy Communion Service
held each Sunday at 10.45am
Remembrance Services will only be
at St Chad's Hutton le Hole
and Christ Church Appleton le Moors
both at 10.45am at the
War Memorials
Please see Calendar for services being held at the
other parishes in the Benefice
