Many rural churches that were established for a different time and to serve different needs are struggling to survive. Some church leaders suggest that these churches might find new energy and purpose in working to revitalize their communities. Read More »
As mainline churches across America struggle with declining membership, rural churches often face an additional problem: The difficulty of calling and keeping a pastor. Cost is a significant concern, but making the math work is just part of the challenge. Read More »
"The idea that a being a pastor in a 'rural ministry' is somehow akin to being 'put on the back shelf' in the world of 'ministry' represents a fundamental contradiction to the message you are called to proclaim," writes the Rev. Tim Koch of Cresbard, S.D. Read More »
Concern is growing over the budget-slashing POStplan and the potential effects it could have on rural communities in North and South Dakota as thousands of post offices nationwide are targeted for reduced hours or closure. Read More »
Brad Paul lived under a death sentence for 33 years, but this past May, that sentence was reprieved. Read More »
Rural communities facing the loss of their post offices may be more greatly affected by the change than more urban communities would be, according to a February Reuters report, and a former postmaster general says the closings won't provide any significant cost savings. Read More »
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