Rural Ministries
Large parts of the District is in rural areas. Rural areas are usually small but a complex mix of social types with differing values and beliefs. Villages vary by size, shape and social characteristics. There is no one rural culture. Our history has given rise to various kinds of villages. They also vary in size and proximity to the nearest town. Village shops have largely vanished, bus services are less frequent, and now even village pubs are joining the many closed village churches. Much of the change has been driven by suburbanisation as people from towns and cities have moved into the countryside.
The Methodist Church works closely with Arthur Rank Centre, an independent ecumenical charity, who are equipped well to support any rural church with mission. They have provided a variety of resources to enable rural churches to engage effectively with their local communities.
You can visit the Arthur Rank website for more in-depth information and help, ideas and inspiration for rural churches and communities.
Contact us
Darlington Methodist District Office
Elm Ridge Methodist Church
Carmel Road South
Darlington
DL3 8DJ