Rural Pastors

Rural pastors are often solo pastors, and sometimes they are the only professional staff at their church. They might visit an injured congregant, fix a plumbing problem at the church, work through some Greek for a sermon, and run a kids’ night all in one day.

This theme, in the words of one alumnus, was shared by many of the rural pastors: “Your church members are also your friends, your neighbors, your kids’ friends’ parents, and one another’s employers and employees. With such multilayered and close relationships, there is no chance of faking anything. It is real ministry in real relationship “or else.”  This is the challenge of authenticity, but it brings the unique joys of authenticity.”

Below, meet just a few of our alumni who serve rural congregations. We are so thankful for your faithful ministry!