Amplifying the Hidden Gems: Empowering Pastors of Smaller Rural Churches

In the vast realm of big Christian music festivals and church conferences and camps there appears to be a missed opportunity - the lack of representation from pastors of smaller rural churches as guest speakers. While denominations and festivals often praise the impressive work accomplished by rural churches, it is a shame that speakers from congregations of 100 or less are overlooked. This blog aims to shed light on the tireless efforts of these dedicated pastors, who often juggle multiple roles, and emphasize the importance of providing them with a platform. With this blog I want to explore how these pastors lead vibrant communities, often outperforming larger churches in budget management and outreach. It is time to move beyond paying mere lip service to smaller churches and instead acknowledge the solid messages and passion that younger pastors (pastors in general) from rural congregations can offer.

Pastors of smaller rural churches exemplify an unwavering dedication to their faith communities. Many of them face the additional challenge of being bivocational, wherein they must balance secular employment with their pastoral responsibilities. Despite these odds, they pour their hearts and souls into their churches, serving as true beacons of faith.

It is essential to recognize the remarkable achievements of these pastors and their congregations. Despite having limited resources, rural churches often excel in budget management, focusing on wise stewardship that allows them to achieve their goals. Their commitment to fiscal responsibility serves as an inspiration to larger churches and offers valuable lessons in managing resources effectively.

Furthermore, these rural churches are vibrant centers of outreach, engaging with their local communities in meaningful ways. With a more intimate congregation size, pastors have the opportunity to foster personal connections and provide individualized support. These churches often have a higher proportion of attendees per capita than their larger counterparts, demonstrating the impact they have within their communities.

It is disheartening that many conferences and festivals fail to recognize the powerful voices that smaller rural church pastors possess. By choosing only big-name speakers or pastors of big churches, we miss the unique perspectives, experiences, and messages of these hidden gems. It is crucial for event organizers to include pastors from smaller rural churches as keynote speakers, allowing their voices, passion, and intensity to energize and inspire attendees.

While writing this blog does not stem from a personal desire to be a keynote speaker, at 50 years old, I recognize and celebrate where these rural pastors are at in their journey. I passionately advocate for pastors from smaller rural churches who have an eagerness to share their solid messages and deliver presentations with the same excitement and intensity as their big church counterparts.

Let us break free from the limitations of convention and embrace the untapped potential of pastors from smaller rural churches. By giving these dedicated leaders a platform, we can foster diversity, enrich our spiritual gatherings, and gain fresh perspectives that touch hearts and minds. It is time to move beyond mere lip service and empower the speakers who embody the spirit, dedication, and fervor of the church – no matter their congregation size.