IN THE PASTORAL PASTORATE
The benefits of the rural church far outweigh its disadvantages.
Stephen McMullin
July 1, 1987
A visitor from a large city shook my hand after the service. "Isn't it ridiculous," she said, "that this little church even stays open? The smartest thing would be to shut it down." I suspect many people would agree with her. I would not. Rural churches offer great opportunities for witness and ministry. By their very nature, they have positive qualities that are difficult to develop in an urban setting. But for some reason when the rural church is mentioned, more people think about problems than about potential. They have visions of infighting, minuscule budgets, and maligned, underpaid pastors. Perhaps from the vantage point of a large urban church, the small rural church seems far removed from the center of Christian mission. But in my years of rural ministry, I've seen the powerful witness and ministry of the country church. Many notions about the country church need adaptation. Myths
Most people assume rural churches are small churches. But are they? Sometimes, but not always. I am pastor of two rural churches, one with twenty-four members and the other with ninety-nine. In our denomination, 68 percent of the churches have fewer than seventy-five members, and many of these churches are found in urban areas. Just being rural does not mean small. Well then, at least we know the members are all farmers. Think again. One of my frustrations is guest speakers who come loaded with farm humor and animal illustrations. These speakers seem to expect people to arrive for church straight from the pumpkin patch. Farming is important to the economy of our area. My churches are in the center of the potato industry, and the parsonage is surrounded by a huge potato field. Some church members are farmers. But most are businesspeople, teachers, ...
Like the preview? To read this complete article
and 18,013 more in the archive—JOIN NOW!
Easily find high-quality, well-researched materials that provide a Christian perspective on topics ranging from headlines to history.
Start using this invaluable tool TODAY for preparing your Bible studies, presentations, class lectures, sermons, meetings, and more.
|
It's easy and quick to join:
Brought to You by Christianity Today Int'l |  |
|
| 
Find similar articles
E-mail this page
