Cherishing the Fragile Rural Church

This article responds to Lawson's recent study discussing the marks of the 'fragile' rural church. It takes issue with each of the 'marks' identified in that article in turn. Financial pressures, it argues, may be dealt with. Churchwardens and lay leaders may not be so difficult to find. Small numbers of children and adults may not be that problematic. Lack of clergy time need not be an issue. And generally a more positive approach is appropriate rather than merely concern with survival. Closure should usually be unthinkable.