ABSTRACT
This chapter reflects a professional odyssey through a series of contrasting rural communities, an odyssey which has witnessed a series of major shifts in culture, community and landscape over the course of the past three decades. Patterns of rural life in the UK have changed dramatically over recent years as markets have become more global. Theological education for ordained ministry is a mix of theoretical and practical activities and is not there to give student ministers a particular direction towards a style of ministry but to give an overview of what ministry may become. Rural ministry is not homogeneous but has great variety. For the first time for a long time rural mission and ministry is increasingly getting higher up onto the agendas of the regional and national church. The church in rural life brings a deep tradition of faith in a world of deep uncertainty.
