Resourcing Rural Ministry offers an in-depth exploration of the key aspects, challenges and opportunities of mission in a rural church. Relevant for ordained and lay leaders alike, the book covers subjects ranging from encouraging evangelism in a multi-church group to making best use of church buildings. Containing a wealth of real-life case studies and suggestions for follow-up, this ecumenical publication draws on the expertise and resources of the Arthur Rank Centre (ARC), which has served the spiritual and practical needs of the rural Christian community for over 40 years. This book contributes to ARC's Germinate programme of training, development and support for rural multi-church groups of all denominations. Resourcing Rural Ministry was first developed by Simon Martin as Training and Resources Officer at the ARC. Additional chapters have been contributed by the Revd Caroline Hewlett, Rona Orme and Becky Payne and the final text has been prepared and edited by Jill Hopkinson. 'This book is packed with helpful resources and background theology that will aid the rural church to be a vibrant and relevant presence in today's society.' Revd Peter Ball, Mission and Training Officer, Eastern Synod of the URC 'Read these contributions and you'll be excited by a wealth of experience, insight and resource.' Rt Revd James Bell, Bishop of Ripon

Faith and the Future of the Countryside is a practical and theological handbook for rural ministry today, offers up to date resources for theological reflection, preaching and practical action in response to issues affecting rural congregations and whole communities in the 21st century. Practitioners in a variety of Christian denominations address the concerns of rural communities today, helping you to understand key issues in the context of mission and respond both pastorally and prophetically. Topics included are the changing profile of rural communities, health and wellbeing, the politics of food production, the rural economy, the local effects of climate change, the pastoral mission of the rural church, spirituality and the countryside and more.

This practical and theological guide to rural ministry comes from the Arthur Rank Centre, the national resource and training centre for rural churches of all denominations. It runs courses and conferences in rural ministry and this practical book has emerged from its many areas of expertise and experience. Focused especially on the needs of those - lay and ordained - who already help to run local churches in rural areas, those preparing for ministry in such a context, and for those who provide pre- and post-ordination training, this welcome volume explores: pastoral skills for rural ministry, leadership models for rural contexts, multi-church ministry, developing lay ministry and leadership, the distinctive values of rural churches, vocational pathways for rural ministry, whether mission be explicit or implicit, and appropriate continuing ministerial education for rural contexts. Illustrated with real life examples and supported by theological reflection throughout, this will be essential reading for engaged in rural ministry.