The Agricultural Chaplains’ Association (ACA) has its home at the Arthur Rank Centre and exists to resource those engaged in agricultural chaplaincy through:
ACA’s intention is to help foster the highest ethical standards in its work, and encourage the best possible practices.
It works alongside existing church structures and its members are therefore required to demonstrate that they have the endorsement of their denominations/local church structures. It is open to lay and ordained people who are working in, or who wish to develop further, some aspect of agricultural chaplaincy. The members include working clergy, farmers, researchers, lecturers etc. An important part of the ethos of the association is to provide mutual support amongst the membership and to keep in touch.
The Association typically hosts two members’ meetings each year, often on a regional basis. The coordinator (see below) also produces & circulates occasional ‘agricultural briefings’ for the benefit of the members of the association. It is possible to subscribe to this free service by contacting the coordinator (below). In addition, there is an Association newsletter which is circulated amongst members on a regular basis.
The two patrons of the Association are Sir Donald Curry, and the Rt Rev’d Anthony Russell, the Bishop of Ely and a former Director of the Arthur Rank Centre.
For further details contact the Rev’d Nick Read (agchap@btinternet.com)
Rev’d Nick Read also produces occasional Agricultural Briefing papers, which cover issues of contemporary significance for those involved in agricultural chaplaincy & rural life. They also provide a helpful summary of crucial agricultural issues for people outside the immediate circle of rural support.
