Working in rural and village ministry is full of unique challenges and joys. Geographical isolation can easily lead us to feel we’re struggling alone, yet rural areas are close to God’s heart and are crucial to seeing our nation changed. So whether you’ve recently moved to a rural area or have lived there all your life, join us as we affirm, encourage and bless one another in the ministry to which God has called us.
Hosted and led by experienced rural leaders, this two-day forum will feature inspiring talks by Pete Atkins and John Coles, practical seminars and workshops, and relaxed times of worship and ministry. And of course there will be the invaluable opportunity to meet with like-minded people who know and understand your situation.
Feedback from 2010
‘A great time to renew and make friendships, space to be part of worship rather than lead it, and be reminded of why we do what we do.’ Katie Tupling, Hathersage, Bamford & Grindleford Benefice, Derbyshire
Guest speakers
John Coles took over the leadership of New Wine from David and Mary Pytches in 2001. He is involved in the development of the Church Leaders’ Network and has an increasing role representing New Wine in the wider church community. He is an associate minister at St Barnabas in Finchley, the church he led for 20 years.
Pete Atkins, with his wife Kath, is part of the Groundlevel Network in Lincolnshire, which exists to support and care for local churches and ministries. He is a hands-on church planter, and helped to initiate and design the Mission Shaped Ministry Course. Pete is also part of the Fresh expressions advisory to Rowan Williams.
Hosts
Rosie Bunn from Stoke Holy Cross, Norwich
David Bartlett from St James’ Southrepps, Norwich
Beverley Stark from Ironstone Village family of churches, Melton Mowbray
Colin Davis from Chittlehampton with Umberleigh, Devon
Cost
Deposit £15
Full fees received by 30 November 2010: £99
Full fees received after 1 December 2010: £110
Limited funds are available to help with costs, please enquire.
Book online now
The conference will start at 10am on Tuesday and end at 4pm on Wednesday. Prices include all meals and accommodation on Tuesday night, based on a shared room. Some single rooms are available for a £20 supplement. The number of single rooms available is limited, so please book early.
Extend your stay
If you are coming a long way, or would like some extra time to unwind away from your church before the conference starts, why not come the night before? Stay overnight at Hothorpe on Monday 31 January for just £68 per person or £45 each for a shared room (breakfast included). Please call 0845 437 8656 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to confirm availability before booking.
Terms and Conditions
- Places can be reserved with a £15 deposit but full fees must be received by 1 January 2011; or 30 November 2010 for the discounted rate.
- All cancellations must be received in writing by 1 January 2011, otherwise full fees will be forfeited.
- Bookings are transferable if requested in writing.