Ministry in the Small or Rural Church

This course will explore the nature of the small church and its place within the context of society, the ecclesiastical world, the local community and the lives of individuals. How we determine health in the small church will be considered. Participants will bring their experience and issues as a partial basis for examining the uniqueness of ministry in and through the small church. Consideration will be given to theological, sociological, psychological, cultural and demographic factors which affect the small church. Special emphasis will be placed on issues of leadership for renewal. Teaching will be through lectures, group seminars and student presentations. Evaluation will be through submissions of report, seminar presentation and a final research paper.