The Fifth National Catholic and Rural Conference will take place at Belmont Abbey, Hereford, on 9th – 11th February 2009. Main presentations include future food security, livestock ethics, the sharing of church buildings and the challenge of welcoming the rural tourist. The programme includes a look at Herefordshire’s potato industry, the controversial polytunnels and the large seasonal influx of migrant workers. There will be an opportunity to choose a visit to local farms.

The Bishop of Lancaster, Bishop O’Donoghue, who speaks for the Bishops’ Conference on Rural Issues, says, ‘I am very much looking forward to this conference. Most of our dioceses have parishes covering many villages. An increasing number of Bishops makes sure their diocese is represented as the Conference is an important event for any Catholic interested in the rural Church. Each year, we attract a fascinating mix of people, both ordained and lay, who come to hear and engage with speakers of a very high calibre’.

For the first time, there will be an international contribution. The Abbot of Belmont will speak about the South American approach to multiple Mass centres. We are in touch with the Vatican Office of the International Catholic Rural Association, and also the American National Catholic Rural Life Conference secretariat, and we hope to benefit from the experience of both.

Full details are available from Fr Robert Miller, 2 High Street, Dulverton, Somerset, TA22 9HB.