This book is a strong case and an even stronger resource for the stirring up of pastoral counseling and pastoral caregivers in this important work. Growing issues, new concerns, the impact of managed care ... more and more comes to the minister on a daily basis.

This collection of essays begins with a strong statement for brief pastoral counseling and the strategies that follow. We are reminded about setting boundaries of time and skill, collaborating with the Spirit, setting time limits and counseling for solutions. The closing section focuses on the congregation as the setting for pastoral counseling.

Several appendices conclude the book.

The Rev. Dr. Richard B. Gilbert, The World Pastoral Care Center