These are deliberately fairly small and intimate gatherings of rural church leaders, both lay and ordained. The ideal number is capped at 30, but should be at least 12 participants.
Ideally, Rural Mission Solutions looks for a partner body in order to localise arrangements as much as possible. A warm but well-ventilated room with reasonably comfortable seating will be required. Digital projection will be used and RMS can provide equipment if it is not available at the venue. The event usually starts with coffee from 10.30 am , followed by a short act of worship. It concludes no later than 4.00 pm.
We work with our local partners to invite local church leaders who live within a ten to fifteen mile radius. It always helps to get a mix of denominational representation. In any Consultation there is likely to be people with varying levels of experience. The opening session enables each peson to introduce themselves and state on matter that has been an encouragement and one that has been a challenge. It doesn't take long for attendees interacting and offering to share their experiences. At the same time the Consultation facilitators from Rural Mission Solution are carefully noting issues to which they can respond.