Rural Ministry [RM]

RM4510 Exploring Small Town and Rural (STaR) Ministry: New Challenges for Pastoral Ministry

The course introduces students to small town and rural (STaR) communities and congregations, with the goal of students reflecting on implications for leadership in the Church within STaR communities. Emphasis is placed on economic, population/ethnic/cultural, and environmental transitions that are affecting communities and congregations in small town and rural America.

Cultural Context

Full course

RM4515 Ministry in Small Town and Rural (STaR) Contexts

Students, together with clergy and lay persons from small town and rural congregations, study issues affecting America’s small town and rural (STaR) communities. Clergy and lay persons from STaR congregations and communities are engaged as part of the course. Contexts include southwestern Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, and North Dakota. Implications for ministry and leadership in these contexts are explored. Because contexts change, course may be repeated for credit.

Cultural Context

Full course

RM4535 Small Town and Rural (STaR) Communities and Economies

This course explores the development, structure, and maintenance of small town and rural (STaR) communities. The role of the church in community and the effects of change in population, agriculture, economy, and community are explored. Future challenges for leaders of STaR congregations are addressed.

Full course

RM4540 Small Town and Rural (STaR) Church Leadership

This course studies the theology, theory and practice of leadership and explores several approaches to social and organizational change. Emphasis is placed on the pastor as a leader of change in the small town and rural (STaR) congregation.

Full course

RM4555 Small Town and Rural Community, Economies and Rural Ecosystems

This course explores the development, structure, and maintenance of small town and rural (STaR) communities. the role of the church community and the effects of change in population, agriculture, economy, and community are explored. This course also addresses environmental issues facing small town and rural (STaR) communities and areas. Biblical, theological, and leadership foundations to address these issues are presented. Special emphasis is placed on how STaR church leaders facilitate an awareness and discussion of justice and ethical issues related to environmental challenges in society.

Cultural Context

Full course

RM4597 Guided Reading and Research in Rural Ministry

An independent study for qualified students under the personal supervision of a member of the division. Consult faculty within division.

RM6598/8599 Guided Reading and Research in Rural Ministry

An independent study for students in Advanced Theological Education. Consult faculty within division and Advanced Theological Education Office.