A MAJOR conference aims to encourage rural church leaders to build closer links with their local communities.

The one-day Germinate! event is being organised by the Arthur Rank Centre on behalf of the main denominations and organisations supporting rural ministry.

The Arthur Rank Centre is a Christian charity, supported by the churches, which resources rural churches and their communities.

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby will open the conference with a video address.

Other speakers will include Methodist Conference president Ruth Gee, Bishop of Shrewsbury Mark Rylands and Roy Searle, former president of the Baptist Union of Great Britain

Workshops and seminars will see delegates explore the creative uses of church buildings, ideas for welcoming children and families, and sources of funds and income.

Arthur Rank Centre chief executive Jerry Marshall said: "Rural communities need vibrant churches more than ever.

Germinate is an exciting opportunity for both lay and clergy and I'm thrilled with the variety and quality of speakers. It will be an inspiring and challenging event."

The conference takes place on 11 October 2014 at the Welcome Centre in Coventry. An early booking discount is available. For details, click here.