Rural Ministry Conference—March 2-4, 2008

Workshop Descriptions

Workshop A –Jim Martin-Schramm

Greening our Congregations

This workshop will introduce participants to a wide range of resources to help congregations address their call to care for creation. These resources include the "Training Manual for Green Congregations" and other resources produced by the Web of Creation program at the Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago; the "Cool Congregations" program and other resources produced by Iowa Interfaith Power and Light; and several study resources produced by the National Council of Churches and various denominations.

Workshop B –Rev. John Reynolds and Elders Craig Johnstone & Loren Rickard

Making Your Multi Point Parish Flourish

In our conversations on the life and work of multi point churches we often speak to what they are not. Why not speak to all they are and can be! In Matt 18:32 Jesus says, “Where two or more are gathered together in my name, there I am in their midst.” In the Presbyterian Book of Order it states Christ has called the Church into being giving it all that is necessary for its mission into the world, for its building up and for its service to God. If we truly believe Christ is present in the Church and has equipped us with everything to do God’s work, what are we concerned about? Experience a fresh view of successful multi point parish ministry from the perspective of the Pastor and elders of the Brooklyn/Malcom Iowa Presbyterian Parish.

Workshop C—Mike Duffy & Craig Lange

How We Farm The Land – Discussion of the Conventional & Sustainable

“As people of faith, we care for God’s creation and encourage others to do so.  Much has been written and said in recent years about “sustainable” and “conventional” ways of farming the land.  What’s the difference?  Is it a situation of good vs. evil?  This workshop provides background and perspective.”

Workshop D—John Crabtree

The Wellspring: How Faith in Rural Communities Provides Our Daily Bread

This workshop will explore ways the Church, and rural Churches in particular, can play a role in creating a better future for rural communities and the people that live there. Historically, rural communities and the rural Church have been wellsprings of American values. Through examining ways that rural Churches can impact public policy, play crucial roles in rural community development and other opportunities, to be “in the world but not of the world” participants will consider whether that wellspring is waning and what actions can and should be taken to change that course. Lastly, the workshop will focus on how much community involvement can lead to both spiritual and congregational growth in rural Churches.

Workshop E—Terry Parsons

Why Church People Act That Way About Money

We've explained again and again about the mission, the vision, the need to pay the staff and keep the lights burning. Why don't they respond? What can we do? Is it possible they cannot hear or understand what we’re talking about? What will it take to get giving where we think it can be? Come for a challenging look at our human needs and the way they affect our behavior, especially when we come to church and money. Learn how to design programs that reach every member of the congregation.