‘The rural agenda is broad and demanding and churches are well placed to play their part in addressing it.
The changes and challenges mean this is an exciting time to be the church in the countryside and there are many excellent examples of churches being bold and creative in seeking to sustain an effective Christian presence in our rural communities. I am delighted to support the churches in this task.’
Revd Graham Jones is a Methodist minister with over 20 years experience of ministry in a range of contexts. Graham is committed to finding creative solutions to the many challenges facing the rural church and to encouraging the church to play a full and active role in the life of rural communities.
The National Rural Officer for the Methodist Church and the United Reformed Church, based at the ARC, serves England, Scotland and Wales on behalf of both churches and works across the Methodist connexion.
Up to two-thirds of all Methodist churches and a quarter of URC churches are located in rural communities, facing many distinctive challenges and opportunities. There is also work to be done in addressing the urban-rural divide and the many issues which impinge upon all communities and people, wherever they are situated.
Working in partnership and supporting the imaginative ecumenical post of Rural Officer the two denominations are displaying their commitment to this vital agenda. Locating the post at the ARC makes a significant contribution to the Centre’s life and work and allows the churches to benefit from the added value of the Centre’s profile and reputation.
The role has a number of facets, including:
- encouraging and supporting the life of the churches in rural communities
- resourcing the networks of Rural Officers across the Districts and Synods
- acting as an advocate and champion of the rural church within the denominations
- facilitating the churches engagement with the wider rural agenda and articulating the churches’ voice on rural issues
- developing new projects and playing an active part in the work of the ARC
Links
Rural Presence (a Methodist interactive website for the rural church)
