The challenges of rural ministry are addressed in a new report aimed at releasing the energies of clergy and lay people for mission in the countryside.

Helpful reports and resources that aim to provide advice, guidance and recommendations for dioceses, parishes, PCC and clergy on rural mission and growth.

The Church of England has over 10,000 churches in rural areas and 40% of those who attend church go to rural churches. We are committed to supporting rural churches in their mission and helping them to grow.

Church of England national funding for features such as improved broadband and pooled administrative support have given rural parishes a boost.

Parish revitalisations, work with children, young people and families and training for mission in rural areas are among a range of programmes to spread the Christian faith backed by the latest round of grants awarded by the Church of England.

A £1.3 million award has been made to a Church of England diocese to help expand its work spreading the Christian faith to people with previously no contact with church in towns and rural communities.

Anniesland had a small, ageing congregation, and maintaining a large building was too much for them. The congregation resigned themselves to the fact that their church would be demolished. Talking with Sanctuary - a housing association - they realised that together they could provide both a new church and housing on their site.

New report shows strategic funding awards are making a ‘significant’ difference to the mission of the Church of England, with growing levels of investment in the revitalisation of parishes and in the most deprived areas of the country.

The Rural Affairs Group of General Synod is primarily a consultative group that works to support the mission and growth of the rural Church of England. It is chaired by the Rt Revd Richard Frith, Bishop of Hereford.

Southwell and Nottingham’s diocesan vision for Growing Disciples Wider Younger Deeper includes The Potting Shed Church, started in 2017 as part of a Strategic Development Fund (SDF) grant.