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Introduction

Gary A. Goreham

Welcome to Volume II of the Rural Social Science Education course The Rural Church in America. In Volume I of the course we addressed the church in its rural context. We examined the unique characteristics and dynamics of the rural church, how it is affected by its context, and how it responds to its ever-changing context. In Volume II, we will explore the pastor's ministry to the rural church and the rural church's ministry to its community.

Pastoral care and general considerations for rural ministry are explored in Unit 6. Unit 7 focuses on special group ministries for youth and the elder. The eighth unit addresses religious education and Sunday school, evangelism and outreach, preaching and worship, and weddings and funerals. Unit 9 explores issues of leadership, administration, clergy-lay relationships, and organizational issues in the rural church. Finally, Unit 10 deals with clergy preparation for rural ministry through seminary training and continuing education and the future of the rural church.

An examination either of Version 1.1 or 1.2 of The Rural Church in America course materials reveals several differences between them and the this Version 2.2. The unit on youth and elderly ministries is a new unit broken out of the original Unit 7. The original Units 9 and 10 are combined in this version. Several of the older articles were eliminated and newer ones have been added. We trust that these changes will make your study more up-to-date, useful, and enjoyable.

The format of Volume II is similar to that of Volume I. Each unit is comprised of an introduction to a collection of readings. Forms are available in each unit to describe, interpret, and evaluate the articles you read. A brief bibliography is provided for those who wish to delve deeper into a unit. Each unit includes a set of projects from which you may select activities to conduct a self-study of your church. The readings, projects, and discussion are geared to provide a deeper understanding of the rural church and, thus, enhance the ministry of the pastor and the church in rural context.

Much of the value of a course such as this comes from discussing your discoveries with the other members of your group. Be sure to complete your readings and projects well in advance of each group meeting. That will give you ample time to reflect on what you have discovered and prepare to share your findings.

As you participate in this course, please evaluate and recommend improvements or additional readings. In this way, you can help future participants. Evaluation forms will be provided by you facilitator, return them to your course facilitator, or send them directly to me at the address below. We are grateful for the time you take to complete and return the forms.