If terms are acceptable t o landowners, much of the highly erodable land now set aside for conservation and wildlife can remain as is. Most members of Great Plains ELCA congregations are directly involved in agriculture. Their congregations are influenced by farm legislation. Many family names on congregational membership rolls have been there since land was homesteaded and congregations started. There is a long-term commitment to the land and a way of life.
Rural congregations remain steadfast in their faith and are the center of rural life .
But many are struggling. Freedom to Farm will likely add to the challenges for congregations in dealing with work-related stress, fewer members, ministering to more older and fewer younger members, attracting pastors and meeting church financial needs. Rural congregations have been a strong base for the ELCA and its predecessor bodies. Rural ministry needs for truly agricultural areas are many and growing. Freedom to Farm probably won't ease the burden.