creates an important ethos of team working. Value is found in all the individual resources and approaches within MC as a whole, and in the possibility of a ‘messy’ approach without having a formal MC.
Regional or Local-Level Rural Training Some ecumenical rural training is offered regionally, while a few Anglican dioceses offer similar training, which varies widely in content, delivery and recipients. Not all such attempts succeed (see Section 3). Other denominations offer little such rural training. Lay participation, even when welcome, is seldom significant unless effort is made to deliver locally. ROs are often crucial to the success of such training. Many Anglican dioceses and most other denominations need to broaden or introduce rural training for their own ministers, and ecumenical provision should also be considered.
Hands-On Experiences, Networking and Groups Rural experience days are greatly valued in initial or ongoing ministerial formation, alongside learning in small group contexts and one-to-one mentoring. Local or regional groups, ecumenical or denominational, play a key role in supporting rural ministry and networking is valuable, especially for those in isolated contexts. Sharing with others in similar circumstances is essential. Much valuable input comes less from overt resourcing or training than from these more informal interactions.
Non-Rural Resources or Training • Within the survey Alpha is more popular with rural lay people than ministers or training providers, with substantial denominational differences. It is used far more among Baptist respondents than other denominations, while Anglican lay people are far more positive about it than their clergy. Despite wide recognition, strong reservations are expressed about lack of flexibility and adaptability; unsuitability of approach and content for rural communities, including being too confrontational.
• CPAS’ Growing Leaders trains lay people for responsibility within local churches through a group-centred approach that fits well with the team structures of many rural church groups. However recognition and use are very patchy.
• Open the Book brings dramatised Bible stories and teaching into primary schools, through teams of church volunteers. It builds relationships between church and school, enthuses and involves lay people and encourages further involvement. It enables small rural churches and lay people to work with children and schools.
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