Sponsored by Queen’s School of Religion
Date: October 25 to 27, 2010
Location: Crieff Hills Community, Puslinch Ontario
 
For more information, go to: www.ruralsymposium.ca
or phone: 519-689-7555
 
The R. Alex Sim Rural Ministry Symposium is held biennially to nurture and empower rural churches. It is co-ordinated by an ecumenical Planning Committee, which includes members from the Anglican, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Salvation Army and United Churches. The symposium being held October 25 to 27, 2010, at Crieff Hills Community, Puslinch Ontario, will be the eighth such event.
 
Therefore Chose Life will focus on issues related to the sustainability of rural communities and the role that rural churches can play in strengthening and/or preserving their communities through fostering various aspects of community health such as economic, services (public, social, medical) environmental, and families.

Two theme presenters will be featured. Dr. Gil Waldkoenig, Director, Town and Country Church Institute, Gettysburg P.A., will examine how the local church’s witness in environmental concerns can be an important resource for community building, sustainable living, and proclamation of the Gospel in fresh and clear tones. Dr. Rene Van Acker, Associate Dean External Relations, Ontario Agricultural College, University of Guelph, will examine the effects of agricultural production systems on rural communities and how churches can help create/sustain healthy communities.

The symposium will also include a variety of experiences including small group discussions, plenary forums, workshops, worship, entertainment, and free time for one-on-one exchanges. In a book display, current resource material related to rural issues and rural ministries will be available for browsing and purchase.