10 July 2024
The Mission Research Network of CTE in conjunction with Sarum College, Cliff College, Saltley Trust, Arthur Rank Centre and the South West Ministry Training Course was delighted to invite Steve Aisthorpe to share some of his previous research.
Steve is the Director of Kilmalieu, a Christian retreat centre on the Ardgour peninsula on the west coast of Scotland. He was previously a mission development worker for the Church of Scotland and undertook numerous research projects to better understand the changing shape and dynamics of the church in Scotland. Some of that research led to the publication of The Invisible Church: Learning from the Experiences of Churchless Christians (SAP, 2016) and Rewilding the Church (SAP, 2020).
Download Steve’s slides from his presentation.
CEO of Rural Missions Bob Goody attended the webinar. He writes…
Steve Aisthorpe’s opening remark was provocative, suggesting that much research is wasted, never reaching the places where it could have the most impact. An interesting thought straight off the bat!
Steve then shared John 4:35 from The Message version, which serves as a poignant reminder for researchers: “Open your eyes and take a good look at what’s right in front of you.” This scripture underscores the importance of focusing on the immediate and practical aspects of mission and ministry.
Steve’s research was particularly interesting about those that are now classed as de-churched (previous engagement, but no longer) and some of the reasons why this might be so. Debunking myths about why people leave the church is crucial. While some attribute departures to trivial reasons, deeper research could reveal more substantial issues. Understanding these reasons requires thorough, context-specific research, acknowledging that each area presents unique challenges such as time, housing, and tourism.
Through the webinar’s wider conversations, we heard that rural churches seem more open to online engagement compared to their urban counterparts. This raises questions about the role of technology in mission: How can rural churches effectively use online platforms to reach out? Do they have a robust online presence? Balancing the maintenance of physical church buildings with their missional purpose is another significant concern. Research suggests that the focus on building maintenance might detract from mission activities. Are these buildings blessings or burdens?
The concept of Christian community without a church agenda was also discussed. What does it look like for Christians to simply do life together in rural settings? We heard that it is essential to inspire and empower laypeople to take initiative in their communities, creating permission for them to act independently of ordained leaders.
As a group, we also pondered why some rural churches have seen growth post-COVID. We discussed shared identity in rural benefices and upcoming research on rural fresh expressions and mixed ecology. And we acknowledged that affordable housing remains a significant challenge, with young people moving away for university and finding it difficult to return.
In conclusion, the webinar asked lots of questions about rural mission; many of which don’t have easy answers. It was an encouraging evening for the rural church and those researching it to come together to dream, inspire and provoke one another for the sake of the Kingdom.
Bob Goody is the CEO of Rural Missions, an ecumenical Christian charity seeking to enable rural churches in God’s Mission. This is done through their tailor-made consultations, innovative resources and missional networks both online and in person.
If you would like to know more about the Mission Research Network or join future events about rural mission and research please contact Rev Dr Ben Aldous, CTE’s Principal Officer for Mission and Evangelism.
If you are interested in the rural church read more from the Rural Theology Association.
Photo credit: Peter Samet via pexels.