'What is the Peak Park Rural Development Enabler?" is a question I am often asked.
Instead of being stationed to a circuit, I am stationed to work in the three districts that cover the Peak Park, Sheffield, Nottingham and Derby and the North West England District. I know it sounds huge, but I work predominantly within the Peak Park boundaries alongside any rural chapel or even group of Christians that feel they would like to develop mission in their rural areas. Including with our ecumenical colleagues where possible.
I am passionate about keeping rural mission on the agenda, I am concerned that we might simply close and sell chapel buildings without first considering 'how can we best be church in this area?' If selling is involved as it may well be, how are we continuing to support and care for the spirituality of people in rural areas?
I fear the development of an 'Urban-centric' church and possibility of people with little to no understanding of living in the local rural areas heavily influencing the decisions around mission priorities and rurality.
I fully embrace finding new ways to 'be church' that are Spirit lead, God centred, relevant and appropriate to today and the local rural location.
Some of the projects I have been working are
So if you are interested in developing or exploring anything rural, please do get in touch (even if you are not in the Peak Park) it's always good to chat through ideas and share experiences. I look forward to meeting you.