By The Rev Robert Miller.

This Conference includes significant speakers, important topics, and plenty of variety. Speakers include Nigel Evans,MP for Ribbte Valley, on The effect Of gfobafisation on British agriculture and rural life and Jim Webster, National Livestock Consultant CLA and raconteur, on The View from the Farm Gate. Other subjects include Rural Development Agencies, Rural Sub Post Offices, Rural Ecumenism. and, a subject in the thoughts of many, The Plight of the Rural Mass-goer. There will be a serious look at the Pastoral Care of Migrant Workers, many of whom are in isolated jobs in very rural areas, and participants will hear about The Therapeutic Rural Community when a representative introduces the work of the Cenacolo Community. For the first time participants are being offered a choice of local visits, including Myerscough Agricultural College, a Dairy Farm & Yoghurt Factory, and the prize winning Suffolk sheep of one of the Conference organisers (Fr Harry Doyle).

Each year the number of dioceses from which Conference participants are drawn increases as word spreads about the variety and the value.

Those attending 2007's Conference will be welcomed by The Bishop of Lancaster in his duel roles of diocesan bishop and Bishops' Conference spokesperson for rural affairs.

Anyone wishing to attend as a resident or non-resident can obtain details from Fr Robert Miller (01398 324217).

The February 2006 Conference was attended by a reporter from The Tableland followed by a lengthy article. Members of the Catholic Press are particularly welcome to report on an area of our Church, which is largely overlooked.