The Rural Immersion class stands with Pastor Nancy Nyland and her son, Tadd, in front of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Bassett, following Sunday worship.

Our time in Nebraska is drawing to a close, and I think that I can safely say that we have all had a wonderful experience. It has been interesting to see so many different areas of the state, and to learn about many aspects of rural life and ministry. There are so many people who deserve our heartfelt thanks for making this trip a wonderful experience that it would be impossible to thank them all by name here, but it has been their kindness and hospitality that has made this trip such a great experience.

From the pastors and lay leaders in Nebraska who planned our itinerary and accompanied us to each of the towns where we stayed, to the business owners and community leaders who took time our of their busy schedules to talk with us, to the gracious host families who demonstrated warmth and generosity in allowing us to stay with them for much of our time here, it has been the people we have met who have helped us to form such a positive impression of Nebraska.

Rural life has many benefits to offer, including strong, caring communities and businesses that are run with integrity and compassion, but to my mind, the greatest gift of living in a small town is the incredible people that surround you. The warmth, generosity, and care that I have experienced from the people I have met in Nebraska is the greatest gift that this trip has given me, and is something that will stay with me for years to come.