Mark Clifton and Mark Hallock unpack practical ways churches can reach small towns and rural communities, drawing from the Converge article, “10 Ways to Reach Your Rural Community.” If you’re a pastor or church leader in a small town, this episode will help you think more strategically about evangelism, outreach, and community presence in a rural context.

In this episode, they discuss how to:

1. Make sure no second-time guest slips through the cracks

Create simple follow-up systems for visitors.
Help guests connect with real relationships, not just programs.

2. Get your church into the local news and community conversation

Look for ways to serve that are newsworthy in your small town.
Build relationships with local media, schools, and civic leaders.

3. Get “schooled” by engaging your local schools

Support teachers, staff, and students in practical ways.
Volunteer, mentor, and show up consistently at school events.

4. Be offensive—in the right way

Play offense by taking the gospel outside your building.
Move from a “come and see” mindset to a “go and tell” lifestyle.

5. Bust out of the Sunday morning box

Think beyond worship services to weekly rhythms of mission.
Use everyday spaces and everyday routines for intentional outreach.

6. Be a regular in your community

Build a faithful presence at local coffee shops, restaurants, and parks.
Become known as a pastor or church member who genuinely cares.

Ideal for:

Rural pastors
Replanters in small towns
Church leaders looking to reach their local community more effectively

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Article: “10 Ways to Reach Your Rural Community” by the Converge Network

Use this conversation as a practical playbook for rural church revitalization, small-town church outreach, and community engagement that keeps the gospel at the center.

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