The Clergy Conference for the united dioceses of Cork, Cloyne and Ross took place in Myross Wood, Leap from February 7 to 9 2001. The theme of the conference was "Being Church in a Rural Diocese".

Bishop Colton initially raised this topic at the Diocesan Synod of June 2000 out of concern for the fabric of rural Ireland. He said: "We need urgently to do some reflection on how best to be the Church in rural areas...In a post-denominational era, the way forward for the church everywhere is undoubtedly the ecumenical path: churches needing one another and putting at one another's disposal the gifts and resources of the other."

Guest speakers were Rev'd John Whitehead of the Diocese of Lichfield, England, author of "Rural Theology", and Joe Walsh TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development.

Rev'd Whitehead held three sessions dealing with Local Ministry Development in Rural Areas; "Both/And" Worship Provision, and Seasonal and Special Services. Commenting on these sessions, Rev'd Brian O'Rourke said: "The input from John Whitehead was positive as he gave us insight to rural ministry in the Church of England. It was a pleasure to have him with us."

On Friday February 9, Minister Joe Walsh spoke in depth on 'The Changing Face of Rural Ireland' and gave a clear picture of the Agri-food sector. He dealt with such topics as farm incomes, CAP reforms and CAP rural development, the role of women in farming, "Ensuring The Future"- the White Paper on Rural Development, the National Anti-Poverty Strategy and so on. He concluded by saying, "We are in a period of change and particular challenge for rural areas. For that reason, the theme of your Conference is especially apt and timely. The Government's objective is to ensure the maintenance of vibrant rural communities into the future through a range of policies and strategies, many of which I have spoken of today. It is committed to ensuring the economic and social well-being of rural communities and to providing the conditions for a fulfilling life for all people living in rural areas."

Although impressed by the contribution of the guest speakers, Canon Paul Willoughby's lasting impression of the conference was a particular session " in which four clergy shared their individual impressions and experience of rural ministry- each was very different- from an honest and bleak appraisal of the future of farming, through soul searching to deep and touching pastoral insights. It was an honour to be present in that room on that occasion and in chapel sharing in the worship with one another."

This was Rev'd Susan Watterman's first conference since coming to the Diocese. She gives her impressions: " As a newcomer I found the contributions from our own clergy to be invaluable. Their expertise in so many areas of agricultural and rural life, as well as their knowledge of local community history and their experience of rural ministry were greatly appreciated."

All in all, the conference provided three good days of worship, collegiality and work.