Rural Ministry Unwrapped
Saturday 4 July 2026 | 10:00am
St Paul’s Anglican Church, Cooma NSW
Life, Faith and Service Beyond the City. An Opportunity to Discover Life and Service in the Monaro.
What does it look like to live and serve in a rural parish? For those discerning a call to ministry, or simply curious about life beyond the city, St Paul’s Anglican Church in Cooma is opening its doors for a day, so you can see for yourself!
“Rural Ministry Unwrapped,” to be held on Saturday 4 July 2026, offers clergy, deacons, ministry students and their families an opportunity to step into the rhythm of regional ministry and experience first-hand the life of a parish in the Monaro.
The day will begin with a Morning Prayer at 10am in St Paul’s Church, before moving into a relaxed morning tea in the parish hall. From there, participants will hear presentations on ministry in the Monaro – honest reflections on both the blessings and the complexities of serving across wide distances, within close-knit communities, and alongside people whose faith is often woven into daily life.
Following lunch and time to explore Cooma, guests are invited to tour the rectory and gain insight into the practical realities of clergy life in a regional setting. The afternoon concludes with a Q&A session, offering space for open conversation, questions and discernment.
Rural ministry offers unique opportunities, including deeper relationships, visible community impact, and a chance to live out the gospel in tangible and relational ways. It also brings challenges, such as geographical isolation, broad pastoral responsibilities, and the need for adaptability. This day hopes to gently unpack both, providing a clearer picture for those sensing a possible call.
Whether you are actively discerning a move to a rural parish, seeking to understand how ministry looks outside metropolitan contexts, or simply interested in a day of hospitality and learning in the country, you are warmly invited to attend.
RSVP by 26 June 2026 to office@coomaanglican.org.au, including any dietary requirements, to assist with catering.
