Supporting Rural and Local Communities in Focus at CRE 2026

Churches play an important role in connecting communities, supporting local residents and creating opportunities for mission beyond traditional church settings. These themes will take center stage at CRE 2026, in the session titled Mission where you are: Reaching rural and local communities today taking place on Wednesday 14 October 2026, from 2:30pm to 3:30pm in the Building Resources Conference.

The session will feature Bob Goody, CEO of Rural Missions, and Mike Frith, Founding Director of OSCAR, bringing together experience in rural mission, community engagement and practical support for churches. Having experience in rural mission and community-focused work, both Bob and Mike will offer delegates an opportunity to consider how churches can develop meaningful connections with the people and communities they serve.

Research from the National Churches Trust highlights the wider community role of church buildings, which host activities including community groups, social gatherings and support services. This reinforces the potential for churches to serve as more than places of worship, helping to strengthen local connections and respond to changing community needs. Source - National Churches Trust

If you are keen to explore how churches can approach within their own communities as well considering the practical opportunities and challenges of reaching people in rural settings and local neighbourhoods, then this session is one not to be missed.