Saturday November 18th 2006

the RTA gathered at St Rita’s Centre, Honiton

Dr Pete Atkins

Leader of Threshold Church in Lincolnshire spoke on

"The Theology of

Rural Mission-Shaped Church"

Followed by a conversation with the Rt Revd Michael Langrish,Bishop of Exeter - during which he encouraged those with small children's work to remember that 35% or more of the rural population was now 65 or over. He also pointed out the way house prices were leading to hidden poverty - but that a new DEFRA-sponsored report showed the contribution church members were making to 'sustainable rural communities'

General discussion of rural 'Fresh Expression' underlined that low control was possible her vision was high. But discernment was needed in  applying MSC principles in rural contexts

After  lunch, at the AGM of the RTA:

Peter Lawrence stood down from the Exec and was thanked for many years service including one as Chairman and several as Groups Liaison officer. Caroline Pinchbeck of Kent was elected to take his place