In many ways this is a tale of old, telling anew the old, old story of the rabbi and his (her) people. It is also radically new, as the rabbi (teacher) moves boldly forward to bring the wisdom of the sages and the skills of the shepherd to help the flock address the matters of faith and the contemporary world.

The first section discusses the foundational concepts for Jewish pastoral care. The second section studies the basic tools for the Jewish pastoral caregiver, including foundations, Jewish spiritual assessment, prayer and presence, the use of Psalms, and spiritual nurture.

The third section connects Jewish pastoral care with specific needs and situations. Among them are spiritual care in the acute care hospital, premarital counseling, responding to domestic violence, confronting addiction, aging people, caring for the dying, bereavement, illness and suffering. This book will serve well in the Jewish tradition, and for the many outside the tradition who are privileged to be a welcomed guest.
The Rev. Dr. Richard B. Gilbert,
Executive Director, The World Pastoral Care Center