- This event has passed.
Continuing Education: Re-engaging Rural Communities
May 18, 2020 - June 14, 2020
$50.00
May 18, 2020 through June 14, 2020 (class time to be determined). This is an ONLINE COURSE
Re-engaging the Rural Communities: We often think we know our rural settings, but upon further reflection, we often miss the complexity and nuance present in the heritage, culture, and diversity of the rural landscape. This course explores the realities of rural ministry including social science research, theological reflection, and discipleship practices, with a bent toward re-imagining rural communities as part of the reign of God. Attention will be given to statistical research, commonalities, and differences between communities, and methods for exploring and forming ministry methodologies. This is a 20-hour online course.
Dr. Jonathan LeMaster-Smithholds a Ph.D. in Christian Education and Congregational Studies from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. With over ten years in local church experience and five years of teaching for many colleges and seminaries, he continues to enjoy connecting with Christians who love to learn. His primary focus is rural ministry but teaches faith formation and United Methodist studies regularly. He, and his wife Rev. Shannon LeMaster-Smith, live in Hildebran, North Carolina. Jonathan, or Dr. J, as many call him, enjoys hiking, cooking, and playing board games.
Required Materials: God’s Country: Faith, Hope and the future of the Rural Church by Brian Roth (see purchase link below)
Required Materials: The Forgotten Church: Why Rural Ministry Matters for Every Church in America by Glenn Daman (see purchase link below)
Registrations are closed for this event