Living the pressures of rural ministry: two case studies. (5th August 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rolph, Paul; Rolph, Jenny; Cole, John
• Is Part Of: Rural theology. Volume 7:Number 2(2009)
• Page Start: 99
• Page End: 111
• Publication Date: 2014-08-05
• Subjects: Christian life -- England -- Periodicals; Pastoral theology -- England -- Periodicals; Country life -- Religious aspects -- Church of England -- Periodicals; 253.0942
• DOI: 10.1179/rut_2009_7_2_003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1470-4994

Abstract

Abstract : Two case studies are the basis of this inquiry. A Church of England priest and a Methodist minister, each serving in a stipendiary capacity in a rural setting in England, were interviewed about the pressures of rural ministry. The aim of each interview was to listen carefully to their experience of rural ministry and to ascertain the key recurrent pressures identified by these two ministers. Analysis of the interview data revealed a large number of economic and social pressures on them, which have been described under the following headings: ministering in a rural setting, travelling in a rural area, managing church buildings, resourcing rural ministry, developing resilience, and coping with stress. The two case studies conclude with practical recommendations and suggestions for further research.