Hough, Adrian2020-03-072020-03-072016-10-132012-07-261470-499410.1558/ruth.v10i1.43http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12424/3906889AbstractGlobalization and economic development have resulted in both widespread environmental damage and significant changes to the nature and life of the countryside. These changes affect the ministry of the rural church and its relationship with the wider community. In theological terms, the effects on physical geography and social context can be explored in terms of physical and moral evil. A theological response can be developed through a consideration of incarnation as expressed in Critically Real Christology, inclusion and exclusion, relationship and an understanding of other. Such theology mirrors God's self-expression in Trinity. This has implications for the nature of the rural church and rural life, both of which are severely impoverished without the other. The rural church at its best can be a paradigm for a response to globalization and the wider threat of environmental changes as well as for the life of the worldwide church.Magazine/Journaleng© 2012 Taylor & Francisrural churchenvironmentglobalizationinclusionexclusionArticle