Faithful Ministry in Small Towns and Rural Communities
One size doesn’t fit all. Here, you’ll find ministry resources designed specifically for those serving in rural contexts.
About the Rural and Small Town Ministry Opportunities
Equipping Leaders for Vibrant Rural Ministry
We give thanks to God for those who live and serve in small town and rural settings across this country. We recognize that there are a vast variety of rural settings and contexts. Our resources seek to enhance and equip people who are entering, developing, or serving as leaders in these beautiful congregations, parishes and communities.
God is up to something in our rural and small town settings. We seek to join Christ’s abundant sowing of seeds to re-energize and reform God’s rural and small town ministries and serve God’s rural and small town mission fields. We also believe that what congregations in these contexts discover can enrich ministry in other settings. As we notice connections, we share what we’re learning beyond these ministries—spreading seeds of hope and insight across the whole church.
Highlighted Resources
A curated library of research, reflections, and practical tools that equip leaders to serve their beautiful communities in small town and rural contexts.
Pivot Podcast Episode #74
Learn new ways to cultivate Christian community with your neighbors that meet people where they are in daily life.
Rural Ministry Certificate
A Faith+Lead certificate in rural and small-town ministry prepares you to lead with hope and vision in rural settings. Join other rural ministry leaders in discovering how to follow God into a faithful future in your community.
Planting Seeds Newsletter
Each issue is filled with inspiring stories, practical resources, and thought-provoking insights that intertwine faith, stewardship of the earth, and community building.
Christian Witness in Smaller-Membership Congregations On-Demand Course
Explore how to talk about faith in a way that feels natural—like sharing your favorite book or a story about something that changed your life.
Regenerative Farming: Regenerating Soil and Lives Free Documentary
Discover how faith, food, environmental stewardship, and love for one’s neighbor intertwine in a distinctive regenerative fruit farm ministry nestled near Hutchinson, MN.
Planting Seeds, Our Newsletter for Rural Ministry Leaders
Get our curated newsletter with theology and best practices for serving in rural contexts.
Latest Articles
Latest Pivot Podcast Episodes
Latest ebooks
Ready-Made Resources, Training, and Support
Related Events
School for Lay Ministry
- Coming soon
- Online
Join a 12-month journey to grow as a faithful and effective lay leader. Due to popular request, we plan to offer the School for Lay Ministry regularly. Keep an eye on your inbox for when we announce our next dates.
Small Town and Rural Ministry Group Page
- Ongoing
- Online
Join in this online community and learn together as we share ideas, videos, and articles.
Rural Ministry Cafe
- August 14, 2025
- Online
Are you looking for a place to gather, connect, and receive support from others involved in rural and small-town ministry? If so, join Pastor Jon Anderson monthly at the Rural Ministry Cafe!
Meet the Staff
Jon Anderson
Pastor Jon Anderson serves as Director of Rural Ministry at Luther Seminary. He grew up on a dairy farm south of Belgrade, Minnesota (Between Willmar and Sauk Rapids). His ancestors came to this land in the late 1850s, and his family lives there to this day. His family farm is located on land that was the traditional homeland of the Dakota people.
In his early ministry he served at camps and congregations in Texas and Minnesota. He recently completed eighteen years of service as bishop in the Southwestern Minnesota Synod of the ELCA. As Director of Rural Ministry he provides leadership in the area of Luther Seminary’s Small Town and Rural (STaR) Ministry.
Anderson earned his M.Div. from Luther Seminary (1985) and a Bachelor of Arts from St. Olaf College (1981). He loves to garden and play with his grandchildren. Planting seeds, growing plants and walking with people as they grow gives him joy.