Rural Church Ministry Training
How we empower churches
Small Town Ministry Workshop
Hood Empower address the unique challenges rural churches face, including resource limitations, geographic isolation, and demographic changes, while honoring their rich contributions to America’s religious and cultural heritage.
Ministry in rural and small-town church settings often challenges traditional paradigms of leadership and service. Pastors and leaders in these communities face unique pressures—limited resources, smaller congregations, and the responsibility of nurturing faith in close-knit yet often underserved areas. These factors can add significant stress to effective pastoral delivery.
Hood Seminary recognizes these realities and walks faithfully alongside rural churches and small-town ministries. Rather than replacing the work already being done, we seek to strengthen it—undergirding the existing foundation with practical guidance, leadership training, spiritual formation, and vital resources. Our mission is to equip leaders so they can serve with confidence, resilience, and vision.
Through our commitment to Faith, Foundation, and Formation, Hood Seminary empowers rural church leaders to sustain their ministry today while preparing congregations for tomorrow.
What do we do
Strengthen Rural Ministry
Academic Certificate Program
A specialized program for students and pastors focusing on rural and small-town ministry, with financial support available.
Continuing Education and Workshops
Quarterly workshops, seminars, and coaching sessions designed to address the unique challenges of rural and small-town ministry
Community and Spiritual Support
Programs to address social ills, support aging populations, and engage with youth and immigrants.
Resources and Funding
Want to Help?
Join Hood Empowers
Whether you’re a church leader, donor, or volunteer, there are many ways to participate in Hood Empowers. Together, we can help rural and small-town churches thrive.
