A church dedicated to St Michael has stood on this site for over 1,000 years. For most of that time it has been known as "Bishopwearmouth Parish Church". In 1998, following the grant of City status, the Church was redesignated as "Sunderland Minister": possibly the first Minister Church in England since the reformation. We made history in May 2007, when, with the adoption of Biscop as Sunderland's Patron Saint, the church was redesignated as an Extra Parochial Place with the addition of St Benedict Biscop in our title. The Bede Chapel (to the right of the High Altar) is set aside for quiet prayer. The Blessed Sacrament is reserved there, the prayer candles may be lit at the entrance to the chapel.
While visiting the MInster why not call into Biscop's@theMinster our on site cafe for tea, coffee, cakes and light lunches open daily 10am to 3pm