1 YEAR ON…
Reflecting on My First Year Leading Rural Missions
One year ago, I stepped into the role of Chief Executive at Rural Missions, taking up the baton from our founder, Rev Barry Osborne. Barry’s vision and dedication over many years laid a strong foundation for the work we continue today, and I want to take this moment to honour his legacy and thank him for his faithfulness to rural ministry.
This past year has been one of growth, learning, and incredible opportunities. We have seen Rural Missions continue to equip and encourage churches across the country, empowering them to be visible, vibrant, and missional in their communities. I have been amazed by the dedication of our team and trustees, who have worked tirelessly to support rural churches in finding new ways to engage with their villages and share the love of Jesus.
Some key highlights from this first year include:
Growing our support network, with 52 new monthly financial givers and 280 new prayer supporters joining us.
Expanding our reach, with a new Instagram account gaining 3,000 new followers and our YouTube content attracting 60,000 additional views.
Rebranding and strengthening our infrastructure, with a new name, logo, website, and updated publicity and systems now in place.
Developing our tailor-made consultations, with 6 church visits, 2 consultations completed, and 7 Synods engaged, with 6-7 more imminent bookings.
Launching the Rural Missions Network, including an online variant.
Enhancing our chaplaincy services, with time now being offered for church leaders to meet with our chaplain.
Creating more resources, including 7 object lesson videos with accompanying church materials and 8 new schools’ videos launching in March.
Expanding training opportunities, with a Youth Ministry in a Rural Context course scheduled for May 2025 and a Rural Mission session planned with Scripture Union.
Growing our digital content, with 30 ‘Top Tips’ videos already released and weekly releases throughout 2025.
As we step into the next season, I am filled with hope for what lies ahead. The need for vibrant, mission-focused churches in rural areas has never been greater, and we remain committed to walking alongside congregations as they bring the light of Christ into their communities.
A verse that has resonated with me throughout this year is Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” This is my encouragement to all of us as we press on in this mission—let’s keep going, keep sowing, and trust that God is at work in ways we may not yet see.
Thank you to everyone who has supported, prayed, and journeyed with us this year. I am excited for all that is to come, and I invite you to continue standing with us as we seek to see rural churches flourish in God’s mission.
With gratitude and anticipation,
