The future of the rural church has been an issue of lively debate since the publication in 1990 of the Archbishops' report, Faith in the Countryside. From his new research, Leslie J. Francis offers fascinating firsthand accounts of exactly how different churches are operating today in different types of countryside, and provides supporting facts and figures.

This major survey holds up a mirror to the rural churches in England, displaying their strengths and weaknesses, and commenting on the effectiveness of their ministry to the particular communities they seek to serve.

This book will be of considerable service to the churches. Ecumenical in scope, it portrays life and worship in churches of various denominations as well as in the Church of England. It will help us all to reflect, nationally and locally, on their presence and ministry in rural areas.

Leslie J. Francis is D. J. James Professor of Pastoral Theology and Mansel Jones Fellow, Trinity College, Carmarthen and University of Wales, Lampeter. He is the author of numerous influential studies and co-editor of Christian Theology and Religious Education (SPCK 1996).