Episode 8: Church at the Opry

What do you do when you know there are people in your small town who need a community and a place to learn about Jesus, but they aren’t coming to your church? Sharon White led her church through a process of listening for needs and opportunities in their small town of Waco, Ga. When they discovered a shared passion for Bluegrass music they prayed for God’s help to start something new. 

Today, in their town of barely 500, 100 people show up for the West Georgia Opry every weekend. Listen to hear the full story.

Rev. Sharon White serves as Pastor of Waco UMC and Fresh Expressions Cultivator for the North Georgia Conference within the United Methodist Church. She feels called to minister to those on the fringe through acts of mercy and social justice andis passionate about finding creative ways to connect non-churchgoers to God. 

What is Rural Renewal Podcast by Fresh Expressions?

Renewal is happening in small-town churches. Many of Jesus' followers across rural regions are uncovering exciting possibilities as they explore creative and practical approaches to loving their neighbors. This new podcast from Fresh Expressions will introduce you to ministry leaders serving in rural contexts to provide examples and inspiration for being the Church and addressing the needs unique to your community.

Rural Renewal Podcast is brought to you by the Rural Revival Summit, a two-day digital event exploring new possibilities for small-town churches. The summit will bring together church leaders like Hugh Halter, Tim Thompson and Leah Hidde-Gregory, along with fresh expressions pioneers like Michael Beck, who are leading the church to do new and exciting things in small-town North America. 

The Rural Renewal Summit will take place on April 21 and 22, and is designed for individuals and church leaders to participate, on their own, or with their team. Register before March 1 to get the early bird price. freshexpressions.com/ruralrenewalsummit