Canon Dr Jill Hopkinson has been National Rural Officer for the Church of England since 2004. She is a staff member of the Mission and Public Affairs of the Archbishop's Council and is seconded to the ARC as part of the Church's commitment to working collaboratively and ecumenically.
There are 9639 rural Anglican churches in England, 60% of the total number. The church has an important and essential role in rural community life with much to contribute in areas of pastoral care, tackling isolation and community involvement, amongst many others.
Primary responsibilities include:
- Providing advice and information on policy relating to rural communities, food, agriculture and the environment, including briefing for Bishops speaking in the House of Lords.
- Partnership working with external organisations including Government departments, the Rural Coalition and other voluntary and community organisations.
- Research, development and projects to develop the life and work of rural churches.
- Supporting and resourcing of rural churches through publications, online materials, training and speaking.
- Being an advocate for the rural church within the Church itself.
- Supporting the network of Rural Officers.
Jill is an agricultural scientist by training and has worked widely in rural churches and communities. In 2011 she was appointed an Honorary Lay Canon of Worcester Cathedral.
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