Religious social and pastoral thought and activity Books

Book SynopsisFrom one of America’s most brilliant writers, a New York Times bestselling journey through psychology, philosophy, and lots of meditation to show how Buddhism holds the key to moral clarity and enduring happiness.At the heart of Buddhism is a simple claim: The reason we suffer—and the reason we make other people suffer—is that we don’t see the world clearly. At the heart of Buddhist meditative practice is a radical promise: We can learn to see the world, including ourselves, more clearly and so gain a deep and morally valid happiness. In this “sublime” (The New Yorker), pathbreaking book, Robert Wright shows how taking this promise seriously can change your life—how it can loosen the grip of anxiety, regret, and hatred, and how it can deepen your appreciation of beauty and of other people. He also shows why this transformation works, drawing on the latest in neuroscience and psychology, and armed with an acute understanding of human evolution. This book is the culmination of a personal journey that began with Wright’s landmark book on evolutionary psychology, The Moral Animal, and deepened as he immersed himself in meditative practice and conversed with some of the world’s most skilled meditators. The result is a story that is “provocative, informative and...deeply rewarding” (The New York Times Book Review), and as entertaining as it is illuminating. Written with the wit, clarity, and grace for which Wright is famous, Why Buddhism Is True lays the foundation for a spiritual life in a secular age and shows how, in a time of technological distraction and social division, we can save ourselves from ourselves, both as individuals and as a species.Trade Review“A sublime achievement.” —Adam Gopnik, The New Yorker“Provocative, informative and... deeply rewarding.... I found myself not just agreeing [with] but applauding the author.” —The New York Times Book Review“This is exactly the book that so many of us are looking for. Writing with his characteristic wit, brilliance, and tenderhearted skepticism, Robert Wright tells us everything we need to know about the science, practice, and power of Buddhism.” —Susan Cain, bestselling author of Quiet“I have been waiting all my life for a readable, lucid explanation of Buddhism by a tough-minded, skeptical intellect. Here it is. This is a scientific and spiritual voyage unlike any I have taken before.” —Martin Seligman, professor of psychology at the University of Pennsylvania and bestselling author of Authentic Happiness“A fantastically rational introduction to meditation…. It constantly made me smile a little, and occasionally chuckle…. A wry, self-deprecating, and brutally empirical guide to the avoidance of suffering.” —Andrew Sullivan, New York Magazine “[A] superb, level-headed new book.” —Oliver Burkeman, The Guardian“Robert Wright brings his sharp wit and love of analysis to good purpose, making a compelling case for the nuts and bolts of how meditation actually works. This book will be useful for all of us, from experienced meditators to hardened skeptics who are wondering what all the fuss is about.” —Sharon Salzberg, cofounder of the Insight Meditation Society and bestselling author of Real Happiness “What happens when someone steeped in evolutionary psychology takes a cool look at Buddhism? If that person is, like Robert Wright, a gifted writer, the answer is this surprising, enjoyable, challenging, and potentially life-changing book.” —Peter Singer, professor of philosophy at Princeton University and author of Ethics in the Real World“Delightfully personal, yet broadly important.” —NPR“Rendered in a down-to-earth and highly readable style, with witty quips and self-effacing humility that give the book its distinctive appeal and persuasive power.” —America Magazine“Beautifully written and persuasively argued, Why Buddhism is True is the most accessible book on some of Buddhism’s extraordinary, even radical, claims.... Powerful, eloquent, spiritual and scientific... A creative and compelling exploration of the Buddha’s mind.” —The Tribune (India)“[Why Buddhism is True] will become the go-to explication of Buddhism for modern western seekers, just as The Moral Animal remains the go-to explication of evolutionary psychology.” —Scientific American“Cool, rational, and dryly cynical, Robert Wright is an unlikely guide to the Dharma and ‘not-self.’ But in this extraordinary book, he makes a powerful case for a Buddhist way of life and a Buddhist view of the mind. With great clarity and wit, he brings together personal anecdotes with insights from evolutionary theory and cognitive science to defend an ancient yet radical world-view. This is a truly transformative work.” —Paul Bloom, professor of psychology at Yale University and author of Against Empathy: The Case for Rational Compassion“[Written] with such intelligence and grace.” —Patheos“What a terrific book. The combination of evolutionary psychology, philosophy, astute readings of Buddhist tradition, and personal meditative experience is absolutely unique and clarifying.” —Jonathan Gold, professor of religion at Princeton University and author of Paving the Great Way: Vasubandhu's Unifying Buddhist Philosophy“Joyful and insightful... both entertaining and informative.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)“A light, accessible guide for anyone interested in the practical benefits of meditation.” —Vox“A well-organized, freshly conceived introduction to core concepts of Buddhist thought.... Wright lightens the trek through some challenging philosophical concepts with well-chosen anecdotes and a self-deprecating humor.” —Kirkus Reviews“[Wright’s] argument contains many interesting and illuminating points.” —The Washington Post“Amusing and straight-forward.... Anyone... can safely dip their toes in the water here.” —BookFilter“Regardless of their own religious or spiritual roots, many open-minded readers who accompany [Wright] on this journey will find themselves agreeing with him.” —Shelf Awareness

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Book SynopsisBoundaries in Dating provides a way to think, solve problems, and enjoy the benefits of dating in the fullest way, including increasing the ability to find and commit to a marriage partner.Table of ContentsCONTENTS Acknowledgments.....9 Why Dating?.....11 Part 1: You and Your Boundaries 1. Why Boundaries in Dating?.....25 2. Require and Embody Truth.....35 3. Take God on a Date.....49 4. Dating Won’t Cure a Lonely Heart.....71 5. Don’t Repeat the Past.....77 Part 2: Whom Should I Date? 6. What You Can Live With and What You Can’t Live With.....91 7. Don’t Fall in Love with Someone You Wouldn’t Be Friends With.....107 8. Don’t Ruin a Friendship Out of Loneliness.....121 9. Beware When Opposites Attract.....133 Part 3: Solving Dating Problems: When You’re Part of the Problem 10. Adapt Now, Pay Later.....151 11. Too Much, Too Fast.....159 12. Don’t Get Kidnapped.....173 13. Kiss False Hope Good-bye.....187 14. Boundaries on Blame.....203 Part 4: Solving Dating Problems: When Your Date Is the Problem 15. Say No to Disrespect.....219 16. Nip It in the Bud.....233 17. Set Appropriate Physical Limits.....239 18. Set Up a Detention Hall.....257 Conclusion.....277

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Book SynopsisThe NASB Pew and Worship Bible is perfect for any church pew or classroom and matches page-for-page with the NASB Preacher’s Bible. Universally recognized as the gold standard among word-for-word translations, the beloved New American Standard Bible, 1995 Edition, is now easier to read with Zondervan’s exclusive NASB Comfort Print typeface.

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Book SynopsisIn this concise version of God Shines Forth, Daniel Hames and Michael Reeves urge Christians to grow in their knowledge and enjoyment of Godas they know God more, they will be spurred on to authentic service through missions and evangelism.

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Book SynopsisIn A War of Loves, David Bennett describes his unexpected journey from gay activism and a distrust of religion to becoming a follower of Jesus, a journey that included pivotal relationships, supernatural encounters with God, and ultimately a new reconciliation between his faith and his sexuality.Trade ReviewA refreshing and powerful book. This is one of the top books I will recommend to Christians who want to know how to better love their LGBTQI friends and also to seekers---whether gay or not---who are open to considering Jesus’ invitation. * Sean McDowell, professor, Biola University; speaker; author, Same-Sex Marriage *A timely, thoughtful, and often moving story which will be hugely helpful to a lot of people. David’s honesty and humanity shine through these pages, even as he handles difficult questions through the lens of his experience. This is a gift to the contemporary church. * Andrew Wilson, teaching pastor, King’s Church London *David Bennett’s book presents a particular lived Christian experience which deserves hearing. I am grateful to all who are contributing their learning, experience, study, and prayer to help us all to proclaim afresh the gospel of Jesus Christ. * Sentamu Eboracensis, Archbishop of York *David Bennett’s page-turning writing gripped me from beginning to end, and I feel sure that his perspective on what it means to give our sexuality to God is something that every Christian of our generation needs to consider. * Dr. Amy Orr-Ewing, director, Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics *Here is a voice as countercultural as it is compelling, capable of engaging the whole Christian community, whether gay or straight, in a vital debate. I have no doubt that David Bennett’s story is going to become an essential part in a complex jigsaw for many. * Pete Greig, 24-7 Prayer International and Emmaus Rd, Guildford *I am particularly pleased to commend this book. It is an important contribution to the conversation. In a day when so often emotional story trumps thinking, David Bennett matches careful theological thinking with a truly compelling story. * Charlie Cleverly, rector, St. Aldates Oxford; member, General Synod of the Church of England *Many lesbian, gay, and bisexual people feel they cannot be true to both their sexuality and the Christian faith. David demonstrates that integrity and authenticity are possible for gay Christians, sharing beautiful insights about love, friendship, and following Jesus too. * Rev. Dr. Sean Doherty, Christian ethicist; author, The Only Way Is Ethics *One of the most significant books on one of the church’s most pressing subjects by one of today’s most inspiring young thought leaders. David Bennett is a prophetic witness, a truth teller, a tender pastor, and a faithful follower of Jesus. This generation needs to hear this man. * Rev. Simon Ponsonby, author; pastor of theology, St. Aldates Church, Oxford *Riveting, extraordinary---quite extraordinary! I really think I could give this book to any contact I have and they’ll be fascinated. I do wonder whether it will become a Christian classic of our time. * Rico Tice, All Souls Church London; author, Christianity Explored *This book is designed to make all of us think about our ultimate love and to work through how we should engage in a long debated area, whether inside of the church or outside of it. It is well worth the read. * Darrell L. Bock, Senior Research Professor of New Testament Studies, Dallas Theological Seminary *This is an incredibly raw and authentic book! David paints a beautiful and compelling picture of what it looks like to desire Christ above all else. His affections for Jesus make me excited to be a Christian. * Preston Sprinkle, president, Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender *This is the searingly honest story of one romanced by God against all expectations. Bennett’s example of giving his whole self, including his sexual self, to the Christ who died for him is an act of Christian witness for our time. * Rev. Dr. Michael P. Jensen, rector, St. Mark’s Darling Point, Sydney; author, Martyrdom and Identity *Table of ContentsPart One: The Search 1. Coming Out 2. Psychics and Boyfriends 3. The LGBTQI Activist 4. The Gay World and Oxford Street 5. University and a Love Triangle 6. Worlds Clashing: Christmas Conflicts Part Two: The Encounter 7. Pub Prayers 8. The Film Festival 9. Prophecies and Coincidences 10. Torn 11. Marriage and Boyfriends 12. The Root of Bitterness Part Three: Sense and Sexuality: Wrestling with God 13. Living Under the Word: Did God Really Say? 14. Law Vs. Grace 15. Facing Facts 16. Idolatry or Celibacy? Resurrection Power and the Body 17. Romance in France Part Four: The New Identity 18. Acceptance and Affirmation 19. The Love of God: Eros and Agape 20. Broken Worship: From Orphan to Son 21. A Unique Sacrifice, a New Identity 22. Now but Not Yet: Suffering and Glory Conclusions 23. Worship: The Trinity and Image of God 24. What Now for the Church? A New Way 25. Intimacy and Beloved Friendship 26. Mutual Understanding: The Church and the Gay Community 27. Gift and Sacrifice: Homosexuality, Salvation, and Holiness

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Book SynopsisA raw, intensely personal memoir of spiritual exploration from one of the world's great commentators on religion.After seven years in a convent, which she left, dismayed by its restrictions, an experience recounted in Through the Narrow Gate', Karen Armstrong struggled to establish herself in a new way of life, and became entrapped in a downward spiral, haunted by despair, anorexia and suicidal feelings.Despite her departure from the convent she remained within the Catholic Church until the God she believed in ''died on me'', and she entered a wild and Godless period of crazy parties and numerous lovers'. Her attempts to reach happiness and carve out a career failed repeatedly, in spectacular fashion. She began writing her bestseller A History of God' in a spirit of scepticism, but through studying other religious traditions she found a very different kind of faith which drew from Christianity, Judaism and Islam and, eventually, spiritual and personal calm.In her own words, her story iTrade Review‘An exceptionally impressive autobiography…Karen Armstrong’s account of her spiralling journey provokes thought and inspires respect.’Daily Telegraph ‘The book deserves many readers…Karen Armstrong must be a woman of iron to have survived, made a career and a life.’ Hilary Mantel ‘Admirably lucid…she gives a more exact and vivid account of the pleasures of writing than any I have seen.’ Sunday Times ‘Unputdownable – absorbing, moving.’ Daily Mail ‘A subtle and funny memoir.’ Sunday Telegraph ‘Armstrong manages to put into words something that most of us cannot express.’ New Statesman

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Book Synopsis''[He] inspired a generation ... He changed the course of history'' Barack ObamaAs Martin Luther King, Jr. prepared for the Birmingham campaign in early 1963, he drafted the final sermons for Strength to Love, a volume of his best-known lectures. King had begun working on the sermons during a fortnight in jail in July 1962 and A Gift of Love includes these classic sermons, along with two new lectures. Drawing inspiration from both his Christian faith and the non-violent philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, A Gift of Love illustrates King''s vision of love and peaceful action as social and political forces for change.Trade ReviewA champion for justice, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., helped awaken our Nation's long-slumbering conscience and inspired a generation ... He changed the course of history -- Barack ObamaMartin Luther King's early words return to us today with enormous power, as profoundly true, as wise and inspiring, now as when he wrote them -- Howard Zinn

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Book SynopsisIn a world of shiny attractions that grab our attention and demand our affections,Competing Spectacleshelps us to thrive spiritually by asking critical questions about where we place our focus.

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Book SynopsisThe NASB Pew and Worship Bible is perfect for any church pew or classroom and matches page-for-page with the NASB Preacher’s Bible. Universally recognized as the gold standard among word-for-word translations, the beloved New American Standard Bible, 1995 Edition, is now easier to read with Zondervan’s exclusive NASB Comfort Print typeface.

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Book SynopsisNewly revised and expanded, this classic resource is an essential guide for pastors seeking a biblical standard for preaching.

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Book SynopsisEmploys a question and answer format to better accentuate the response of the Church's message to the questions Catholics have about their social role and what the Church intends to teach about it. It is the first short book on Catholic Social Teaching to ground itself thoroughly in the longer and authoritative Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church (2004).Trade Review“I am delighted that Prof. Mons. Martin Schlag has edited this Handbook of Catholic Social Teaching. It is a catependium in the sense that it summarizes the Compendium and preserves its range of contents (. . . pendium), and it adopts the question-and-answer approach of catechisms (cate . . .) that has proven very effective for teaching. This helps the presentation to be amenable and accessible to young people as well as others. I hope this catependium will be widely read and made available to many people all over the world. Most of all, however, I hope and pray that its contents will move many hearts to respond to the stirrings of the Holy Spirit, and open us to the needs of our brothers and sisters and of the Earth, our common home.” —from the foreword by Peter K. A. Cardinal Turkson

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Book SynopsisA famed preacher, professor, and cultural anthropologist reveals the cancer of woke theology that has permeated seminaries and that threatens the evangelical church itself. Plus a call to all Christian congregations to eschew the lure of critical theory and hold to the path of an individual relationship with God.USA TODAY BESTSELLER! The Ground Is Moving The death of George Floyd at the hands of police in the summer of 2020 shocked the nation. As riots rocked American cities, Christians affirmed from the pulpit and in social media that “black lives matter” and that racial justice “is a gospel issue.” But what if there is more to the social justice movement than those Christians understand? Even worse: What if they’ve been duped into preaching ideas that actually oppose the Kingdom of God? In this powerful book, Voddie Baucham, a preacher, professor, and cultural apologist, explains the sinister worldview behind the social justice movement and Critical Race Theory—revealing how it already has infiltrated some seminaries, leading to internal denominational conflict, canceled careers, and lost livelihoods. Like a fault line, it threatens American culture in general—and the evangelical church in particular. Whether you’re a layperson who has woken up in a strange new world and wonders how to engage sensitively and effectively in the conversation on race or a pastor who is grappling with a polarized congregation, this book offers the clarity and understanding to either hold your ground or reclaim it.

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Book SynopsisDrawing on the wisdom of Pope Francis and the spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola, austen Ivereigh has written a captivating spiritual guide for our turbulent age. Designed as an eight-day Ignatian retreat, First Belong to God serves as a roadmap to deeper discipleship. It does this by focusing on the three foundational forms of belonging: to God, to creation, and to others. Whether you're embarking on a solitary spiritual expedition or a journey with like-minded individuals, First Belong to God offers the next best thing to a personal retreat with Pope Francis: a full-soul immersion into his wisdom via the classic Jesuit retreat that shaped him profoundly.

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Book SynopsisRevised and updated, with a new chapter on the refugee crisis.Welcome to the front lines. Everywhere we turn, battle lines are being drawntraditional marriage vs. gay marriage, pro-life vs. pro-choice, personal freedom vs. governmental protection. Seemingly overnight, culture has shifted to the point where right and wrong are no longer measured by universal truth but by popular opinion. And as difficult conversations about homosexuality, abortion, and religious liberty continue to inject themselves into our workplaces, our churches, our schools, and our homes, Christians everywhere are asking the same question: How are we supposed to respond to all this? In Counter Culture, New York Times bestselling author David Platt shows Christians how to actively take a stand on such issues as poverty, sex trafficking, marriage, abortion, racism, and religious libertyand challenges us to become passionate, unwavering voices for Christ. Drawing on compelling personal accounts fro

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Book SynopsisChristianity Today 2023 Award of Merit (Politics & Public Life) Logos 2022 Book of the Year Award (Christianity in Culture) Which media outlets will help me be a responsible news consumer? How do I know what is true and whom I can trust? What can I do to combat all the misinformation and how it's impacting people I love? Many Americans are agonizing over questions such as these, feeling unsure and overwhelmed in today's chaotic information environment. American life and politics are suffering from a raging knowledge crisis, and the church is no exception. In Untrustworthy, Bonnie Kristian unpacks this crisis and explores ways to combat it in our own lives, families, and church communities. Drawing from her extensive experience in journalism and her training as a theologian, Kristian explores social media, political and digital culture, online paranoia, and the press itself. She explains factors that contribute to our confusion and helps Christians pay attention to how we consume content and think about truth. Finally, she provides specific ways to take action, empowering readers to avoid succumbing to or fueling the knowledge crisis.Table of ContentsContentsForeword by David FrenchIntroduction1. Naming the Crisis2. Media3. Mob4. Schemes5. Skepticism6. Emotions7. Experience8. A Practical Epistemology9. A Building Plan10. A Breath

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Book SynopsisThese diverse case studies make a compelling case for the importance of effective spiritual care in healthcare and provide unprecedented insight into the essential role of the chaplain within the healthcare team. Presented alongside critical reflections and responses from professionals within chaplaincy, psychology, psychiatry and nursing, they provide an honest and detailed look into how healthcare chaplains actually work with the people in their care and reveal the vital role of narrative and imagination in effective transformative practice. From a 16-year-old with a belief that God would enable a miraculous recovery from paralysis, to an African man with a history of psychosis and depression whose cultural belief in witches complicated his treatment, to a dying Jewish man, aggressive and isolated due to his traumatic life experiences, each case includes insight into the patient's needs and chaplain's perspectives, discussion of spiritual assessments and spiritual care interventions, and accounts of significant encounters and dialogues. The nine paediatric, psychiatric and palliative case studies and reflections in this ground-breaking book will enable chaplains to critically reflect on the spiritual care they provide and communicate their work more effectively, help healthcare professionals develop a clearer understanding of the care chaplains deliver, and provide an informed perspective for those who develop policy around spiritual care and need to make the case for chaplaincy services.Trade ReviewFitchett and Nolan, along with the writers of these cases, have provided us with a long-missing resource essential to the further integration of spiritual care and professional chaplaincy into healthcare. These cases should become fundamental to every chaplain's training and every interdisciplinary team's discussion about spiritual care. Swinton's Afterword sets the context brilliantly and probably should be read first. Kudos all around! -- The Rev. George Handzo, BCC, Director of Health Services Research & Quality, HealthCare Chaplaincy NetworkThis ground-breaking book will enable healthcare chaplains to critically reflect on the care they provide and communicate their work more effectively. It will be a valuable tool for educating new chaplains, for continuing education for experienced chaplains, and for students of practical theology, as well as for others working in healthcare. -- Harold G. Koenig, M.D., Professor of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Associate Professor of Medicine, and Director of the Center for Spirituality, Theology and Health, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North CarolinaThis book is intended to be a learning piece and a conversation starter for the chaplaincy profession but it is also of interest to all those interested in the provision of spiritual care in a health care setting. Chaplains often work in small departments isolated from the support and supervision afforded to other healthcare professionals; books such as this can provide a valuable learning experience and enable chaplains to reflect on their own practice and how they might have handled the situations described in the case studies. -- Emily Wood * Health and Social Care Chaplaincy, Issue 4.1 (June) 2016 *It breaks new ground in illustrating the educative role of case studies in the training and continuing education of healthcare chaplains and in demonstrating the nature and value of healthcare chaplaincy services to clinicians and healthcare payers. The external reviews of the chaplains' work with their individual patients are particularly useful, typically illustrating deficits and concerns that the participating chaplains may not otherwise have considered - relevant research is cited, emerging theoretical perspectives and theological implications considered and with good cross-referencing to other disciplines.It provides a valuable learning resource for healthcare chaplains to employ in reflecting on their own practice and to consider how they themselves might have handled the cases described....I can certainly recommend this book as important reading for all healthcare chaplains and to those clinical and managerial colleagues who wish to increase their understanding of the modern healthcare chaplain's role. -- Andrew Miles MSc MPhil PhD DSc * European Journal for Person Centered Healthcare *Table of ContentsForeword. Christina M. Puchalski, MD, Professor of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University School of Medicine, and Founder and Director of The George Washington Institute for Spirituality and Health. Introduction. George Fitchett, DMin, PhD, Professor and Director of Research, Department of Religion, Health and Human Values, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois. Part 1. Paediatric Case Studies. Steve Nolan, PhD, Chaplain, Princess Alice Hospice, Esher, UK. 1.1. “God tells the doctors to pick the right medicine” – LeeAnn, a 12 year old girl with cystic fibrosis. Daniel H. Grossoehme, DMin, BCC, Associate Professor of Pediatrics (Division of Pulmonary Medicine), Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. 1.2. “I can tell you this, but not everyone understands” – Erica, a mother of a two year old girl with cancer. Alice A. Hildebrand, MDiv, BCC, Women's and Children's Service Line Chaplain at Barbara Bush Children's Hospital of Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine. 1.3. “Why did God do this to me?” – Angela, a 17 year old girl with spinal injury. Katherine M. Piderman, PhD, BCC, Staff Chaplain, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota. 1.4. Critical Response to Paediatric Case Studies – A Chaplain's Perspective. Alister W. Bull, BD, Dip Min, MTh, PhD, Secretary to the Mission and Discipleship Council, Church of Scotland, previously NHS Healthcare Chaplain, Yorkhill Children's Hospital, Glasgow and Lead Chaplain, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, UK. 1.5. Critical Response to Paediatric Case Studies – A Psychologist's Perspective. Sian Cotton, PhD, health psychologist and Director, Center for Integrative Health and Wellness and UC Health Integrative Medicine, University of Cincinnati. Part 2. Psychiatric Case Studies. Steve Nolan. 2.1. “I am frightened to close my eyes at night in case the witch comes to me in my sleep” – Yesuto, an African man in his early thirties troubled by his belief in witchcraft. Rosie Andrious-Ratcliffe, PhD, Trust Chaplain and Mental Health Lead, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK. 2.2. “I tried to kill myself. Will God keep me apart from the person I love in the life-after?” – June, a 78 year old woman who attempted suicide. Chris Swift, PhD, Head of Chaplaincy Services, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, and Visiting Research Fellow, University of Leeds, UK. 2.3. “My family wants me to see a priest. It can't hurt, right?” – Nate, a 20 year old man and his sexual identity. Angelika A. Zollfrank, BCC, ACPE, Clinical Pastoral Educator, Massachusetts General Hospital. 2.4. Critical Response to Psychiatric Case Studies – A Chaplain's Perspective. Graeme D. Gibbons, DMin, BA, BD, Grad Dip Psych, Ordained Minister, Uniting Church, Australia, and accredited Clinical Pastoral Educator by the Association of Supervised Pastoral Education, Australia. 2.5. Critical Response to Psychiatric Case Studies – A Psychiatrist's Perspective. Warren Kinghorn, MD, ThD, Assistant Professor in Psychiatry and Pastoral and Moral Theology, Duke University Medical Center and Duke Divinity School. Part 3. Palliative Case Studies. Steve Nolan. 3.1. “I need to do the right thing for him” – Andrew, a Canadian Veteran at the end of his life, and his daughter Lee. Jim Huth, PhD, Spiritual Care Provider, Sunnybrook Veterans Centre, Toronto, Canada, and Wes Roberts, MTS, BRE, Chaplain, Sunnybrook Veterans Center, Toronto, Canada. 3.2. “What can you do for me?” – David, a mid-60s Jewish man with stage IV pancreatic cancer. Nina Redl, BCC, Bryan Medical Center, Lincoln, Nebraska. 3.3. “Tell her that it's OK to release her spirit” – Maria, a Native American woman, grieving the loss of her dying mother. Richard C. Weyls, MDiv, STL, BCC, Staff Chaplain, Paaliative Care Consult Team, Swedish Health Systems, Washington. 3.4. Critical Response to Palliative Case Studies – A Chaplain's Perspective. David Mitchell, BD, Dip P Theo, MSc, PG Cert, TLHE, Programme Leader, Postgraduate Education in Healthcare Chaplaincy, University of Glasgow, UK. 3.6. Critical Response to Psychiatric Case Studies – A Nurse's Perspective. Barbara Pesut, PhD, RN, Canada Research Chair in Health, Ethics and Diversity, and Associate Professor, School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Okanagan. Part 4. Ethical Issues in Chaplaincy Case Study. David B. McCurdy, DMin, BCC, adjunct faculty member in Religious Studies, Elmhurst College, and previously Senior Ethics Consultant and Director of Organizational Ethics, Advocate Health Care. Afterword. John Swinton, PhD, BD, RNM, RNHD, Professor, Practical Theology and Pastoral Care, School of Divinity, Religious Studies and Philosophy, University of Aberdeen, UK.

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Book SynopsisArguing from Scripture and history, Dr. Boyd makes a compelling case that whenever the church gets too close to any political or national ideology, it is disastrous for the church and harmful to society.

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Book SynopsisThis concise guide is an ideal introduction to the increasingly popular topic of children''s spirituality. Mixing theory with tips on ''good practice'', leading expert Rebecca Nye shows how choices made in churches and homes can stimulate or stifle a child''s spiritual development, exploring: Childhood as a natural source of spirituality Ways to help children value and express their spirituality The role of Christian nurture and worship in early spiritual development Trade Review'A brilliant mix of thought provoking theology and challenging practical applications. It has changed how I see children and church.' -- Ben Mizen, Youth and Children’s Work Adviser, Diocese of Portsmouth'A powerful reaffirmation and exploration of the importance of childhood spirituality for the ministry and mission of the church, which will be welcomed by all working in this field.' -- Alister McGrath

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Book SynopsisResearch literacy is now a requirement for Board-Certified chaplains in the US and a growing field in the UK. This reader gives an overview and introduction to the field of healthcare chaplaincy research. The 21 carefully chosen articles in this book illustrate techniques critical to chaplaincy research: case studies; qualitative research; cross-sectional and longitudinal quantitative research, and randomized clinical trials. The selected articles also address wide-ranging topics in chaplaincy research for a comprehensive overview of the field.To help readers engage with the research, each article includes a discussion guide highlighting crucial content, as well as important background information and implications for further research. This book is the perfect primary text for healthcare chaplaincy research courses, bringing together key articles from peer-reviewed journals in one student-friendly format.Table of ContentsSection I. Healthcare Chaplains: Where They Work & What They Do .1. The Provision of Hospital Chaplaincy in the United States: A National Overview (2008). Wendy Cadge, Department of Sociology, Brandeis University, Jeremy Freese, Department of Sociology, Northwestern University and Nicholas A. Christakis, Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School. 2. "He Needs to Talk!": A Chaplain's Case Study of Nonreligious Spiritual Care (2016). Steve Nolan, Princess Alice Hospice; University of Winchester. 3. What do I do? Developing a taxonomy of chaplaincy activities and interventions for spiritual care in intensive care unit palliative care (2015). Kevin Massey, Advocate Health Care, Marilyn JD Barnes, Dana Villines, Julie D Goldstein, Anna Lee Hisey Pierson, Cheryl Scherer, Betty Vander Laan and Wm Thomas Summerfelt. 4. Communicating Chaplains' Care: Narrative Documentation in a Neuroscience-Spine Intensive Care Unit (2016). Rebecca Johnson, Buehler Center On Aging, Health & Society, Northwestern University, M. Jeanne Wirpsa, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Lara Boyken, Buehler Center On Aging, Health & Society, Northwestern University, Matthew Sakumoto, Northwestern University Feinberg School Of Medicine, George Handzo, Healthcare Chaplaincy Network, Abel Kho, Northwestern University Feinberg School Of Medicine and Linda Emanuel, Buehler Center On Aging, Health & Society. 5. Determining best methods to screen for religious/spiritual distress (2017). Stephen D. W. King, Chaplaincy, Child Life, & Clinical Patient Navigators, Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, George Fitchett and Patricia E. Murphy, Department of Religion, Health & Human Values, Rush University Medical Center, Kenneth I. Pargament, Department of Psychology, Bowling Green State University, David A. Harrison, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine and Elizabeth Trice Loggers, Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. 6.The spiritual distress assessment tool: an instrument to assess spiritual distress in hospitalised elderly persons (2010). Stefanie M Monod, Service of Geriatric Medicine & Geriatric Rehabilitation, University of Lausanne Medical Center, Etienne Rochat, Service of Geriatric Medicine & Geriatric Rehabilitation and Chaplaincy Service, University of Lausanne Medical Center, Christophe J Büla, Service of Geriatric Medicine & Geriatric Rehabilitation, University of Lausanne Medical Center, Guy Jobin, Faculty of Theology and Religious Sciences, University of Laval, Estelle Martin, Service of Geriatric Medicine & Geriatric Rehabilitation, University of Lausanne Medical Center and Brenda Spencer, Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (IUMSP), University Hospital Center and University of Lausanne. Section II Patient/Family Spiritual Needs & Spiritual Care Interest. 7. The Spiritual and Theological Challenges of Stillbirth for Bereaved Parents (2017). Daniel Nuzum, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College Cork, Cork University Maternity Hospital, Sarah Meaney, National Perinatal Epidemiology Centre, University College Cork and Keelin O'Donoghue, Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College Cork, Cork University Maternity Hospital. 8. Identifying Religious and/or Spiritual Perspectives of Adolescents and Young Adults Receiving Blood and Marrow Transplants: A Prospective Qualitative Study (2014). Judith R. Ragsdale, Mary Ann Hegner, Mark Mueller and Stella Davies, Cincinnati Children's Hospital. 9. Adolescents' Spirituality and Cystic Fibrosis Airway Clearance Treatment Adherence: Examining Mediators (2016). Daniel H. Grossoehme. Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Rhonda D. Szczesniak, Division of Pulmonary Medicine and Division Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Sylvie Mrug, Department of Psychology, University of Alabama, Sophia M. Dimitriou, Alec Marshall and Gary L. McPhail, Division of Pulmonary Medicine.10. Hospital Chaplains: Through the Eyes of Parents of Hospitalized Children (2017). Pamela K. Donohue, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Department of Population Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Matt Norvell, Department of Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Renee D. Boss, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Berman Institute of Bioethics, Jennifer Shepard, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Karen Frank, Department of Acute and Chronic Care, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Christina Patron, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Thomas Y. Crowe, Department of Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy, Johns Hopkins Hospital. 11. Service user views of spiritual and pastoral care (chaplaincy) in NHS mental health services: a co-produced constructivist grounded theory investigation (2016). Julian Raffay, Spiritual and Pastoral Care, Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, Emily Wood and Andrew Todd, Cardiff Centre of Chaplaincy Studies, St Michael's College.12. Cultural differences in spiritual care: findings of an Israeli oncologic questionnaire examining patient interest in spiritual care (2014). Michael Schultz, Division of Oncology, Rambam-Health Care Campus, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Doron Lulav-Grinwald, Division of Oncology, Rambam-Health Care Campus, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology and Gil Bar-Sela, Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology. 13. The Frequency and Correlates of Spiritual Distress Among Patients With Advanced Cancer Admitted to an Acute Palliative Care Unit (2011). David Hui, Maxine de la Cruz, Steve Thorney, Henrique A. Parsons, Marvin Delgado-Guay, and Eduardo Bruera, Department of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Section III. Chaplaincy Interventions & Their Impact. 14. Relationship Between Chaplain Visits and Patient Satisfaction (2015). Deborah B. Marin and Vanshdeep Sharma, Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sina, Eugene Sosunov, Office for Excellence in Patient Care, Mount Sinai Hospital, Natalia Egorova, Department of Health Evidence and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Rafael Goldstein, Department of Spiritual Care and Education, Mount Sinai Hospital and George F. Handzo, HealthCare Chaplaincy, New York. 15. The association of spiritual care providers' activities with family members' satisfaction with care after a death in the ICU (2014). Jeffrey R. Johnson, Ruth A. Engelberg, Elizabeth L. Nielsen and Erin K. Kross, Harborview Medical Center, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Nicholas L. Smith, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle Epidemiologic Research and Information Center and Group Health Research Institute, Julie C. Hanada and Sean K Doll O'Mahoney, Department of Spiritual Care, Harborview Medical Center and J. Randall Curtis, Harborview Medical Center, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington.16. The Effect of Pastoral Care Services on Anxiety, Depression, Hope, Religious Coping, and Religious Problem Solving Styles: A Randomized Controlled Study (2008). Paul S. Bay, Chaplaincy and Pastoral Education, Clarian Health Partners, Daniel Beckman, CORVAS Cardiothoracic & Vascular Solutions, Clarian Health Partners, James Trippi, The Care Group, Clarian Health Partners, Richard Gunderman, School of Medicine, Indiana University and Colin Terry, Methodist Research Institute, Clarian Health Partners. 17. A Novel Picture Guide to Improve Spiritual Care and Reduce Anxiety in Mechanically Ventilated Adults in the Intensive Care Unit (2016). Joel N. Berning, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Pastoral Care and Education Department, Armeen D. Poor, Sarah M. Buckley and Komal R. Patel, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care, Columbia University, David J. Lederer, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care, Columbia University and Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, Nathan E. Goldstein, Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Daniel Brodie and Matthew R. Baldwin, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care, Columbia University. 18. The impact of a spiritual legacy intervention in patients with brain cancers and other neurologic illnesses and their support persons (2017). Katherine M. Piderman, Chaplain Services, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Carmen Radecki Breitkopf, Division of Health Care Policy and Research, Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Sarah M. Jenkins, Biostatistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Maria I. Lapid, Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Gracia M. Kwete, Mayo Medical School, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Terin T. Sytsma, Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Laura A. Lovejoy, Chaplain Services, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Timothy J. Yoder, Chaplain Services, Mayo Clinic Rochester and Aminah Jatoi, Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic Rochester. 19. What Impact Do Chaplains Have? A Pilot Study of Spiritual AIM for Advanced Cancer Patients in Outpatient Palliative Care (2017). Allison Kestenbaum, Doris A. Howell Palliative Care Service, University of California, The Rev. Michele Shields, Spiritual Care Department, University of California San Francisco Medical Center and UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, Jennifer James, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, The Rev. Will Hocker, Spiritual Care Department, University of California San Francisco Medical Center and UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, Stefana Morgan, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Shweta Karve, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Michael W. Rabow, Department of Medicine, University of California and Laura B. Dunn, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University. 20. Patient Reported Outcome Measure of Spiritual Care as Delivered by Chaplains (2017). Austyn Snowden, School Of Health And Social Care, Edinburgh Napier University and Iain Telfer, The Royal Infirmary Of Edinburgh. 21. A national study of chaplaincy services and end-of-life outcomes (2012). Kevin J Flannelly, The Spears Research Institute, HealthCare Chaplaincy, Linda L Emanuel, Buehler Center on Aging, Health & Society, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, George F Handzo, HealthCare Chaplaincy, Kathleen Galek, The Spears Research Institute, HealthCare Chaplaincy, Nava R Silton, Department of Psychology, Marymount Manhattan College and Melissa Carlson, Mount Sinai School of Medicine.

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Book SynopsisThis book offers nourishment to the busy, weary pastor in the thick of ministry, with brief chapters that combine a question-and-answer format reflecting historical catechisms with content concerned with the pastor's personal spiritual health.

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Book Synopsis2022 Martin Institute/Dallas Willard Center Book Award Finalist Most books on spiritual formation focus on the individual. But spiritual formation is at the heart of the church's whole purpose for existence. It must be a central task for the church to carry out Christ's mission in the world. This book offers an introduction to spiritual formation set squarely in the local church. The first edition has been well received and widely used as a textbook. The second edition has been updated throughout, incorporates findings from positive psychology, and reflects an Augustinian formation perspective. Foreword by Dallas Willard.Table of ContentsContentsForeword by Dallas Willard1. Formation through the Ordinary: The Pathway to Flourishing in Christ2. Curriculum for Christlikeness: Imitation of Christ as the Means and Glorious End of Formation3. Receiving: Formation of the Heart by Grace for the Broken and Thirsty4. Remembering: Remembering What God Sings over You5. Responding: Love and Service to God and Others 6. Relating: Spiritually Enriching Relationships of Love and Service 7. High-Impact Practices: Proven Community Practices That Foster FormationAppendix: Assessment QuestionsIndexes

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Book SynopsisThis edited collection about good practice for mental health chaplains and other related professionals looks at how spirituality is viewed across mental health fields. It identifies what mental health chaplaincy is, how mental health chaplaincy interacts with other organisations like the NHS, and what good practice means with examples of positive and fulfilling experiences in mental health settings.The chapters consider some of the main issues of working with the mental health community, such as the place of volunteers, the recovery process, religious diversity and patient safety. They are followed by uplifting case studies, including service user perspectives, to provide a valuable overall insight into mental health chaplaincy and its context in wider mental health services.Trade ReviewThis impressive and international set of chapters, mostly practice-oriented with pertinent academic background (Cook, Ryan and Bierbaum), ranges through the changing and contested landscape of mental well-being and spiritual care. Underlain by the impact of the NHS Chaplaincy Guidelines 2015 and the UK Equality Act 2010, the work embraces both professional identity, volunteer and service user deployment (Harrison, Allen and Eaton), and Recovery College and 'Exploring Your Spiritual Side' models, including vital coverage of learning disability, dementia and the community (Louis and Isakjee, Collins et al; Kevern and Brooker; Bunker). Fletcher brings together a compelling compendium which offers, in her words, a sustaining 'cycle of pastoral support'. The chapters evidence admirable scope and local colour to create a bright meaning-rich rainbow of experience and learning. The book breaks new ground in showcasing what is best in the diverse practice of NHS mental health chaplaincy today. -- Revd Dr Geoff Morgan PhD MPhilThis is an important addition to the growing body of work which reflects on the experience of chaplaincy and spiritual care. The authors are leading practitioners and academics, offering significant insights into the context of mental health care. Essential reading for those involved or connected to this field. -- Chris Swift, Director of Chaplaincy and Spirituality at MHA and Visiting Professor in Pastoral, Religious and Spiritual Care at Staffordshire UniversityJean Fletcher must be congratulated for bringing together such a diverse and rich expression of mental health chaplaincy. This book will engage the reader in sustained reflection on the practice of spiritual care in settings that ask the profoundest of questions about the nature of human life. -- Stephen Bushell'Holistic and Person Centred Care' resounded like a refrain in my heart as I read this resource book full of the wisdom, love and broad experience of its authors. The passion they have in common? Amazing creativity in finding ways to be alongside and care for sufferers of mental, emotional and spiritual distress or disturbance; listen deeply to their individual stories as they struggle to give meaning to their life journey. No easy answers, instead a lot of helpful questions for reflective practice. -- Regula Hug, Sisters of St Andrew, retired Prison and Mental Health Chaplain, LondonTable of ContentsIntroduction - Jean Fletcher. Foreword - John Swinton. PART I. Trends and Themes of the wider scene. 1. What is a Mental Health Chaplain for? Simon Harrison. 2. The clinician's view of spirituality in mental health care. Chris Cook and Lucy Grimwade. 3. Seeking an authentic Christian voice on mental health. Ben Ryan. 4. Bridging the gap: the interface between NHS care and faith communities. Neil Bunker. 5. Has professionalism gone too far? The place of volunteers in mental health chaplaincy. Richard Allen. 6. Entering by another door... Cameron Langlands. 7. Religion and Spirituality in chaplaincy in mental health care. Ruth Bierbaum. PART II. Good practice in Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care. 8. Responsive, inclusive, diverse. Emma Louis and Feroza Isakjee. 9. Exploring spirituality in recovery: models of partnership. Charlotte Collins, Rianna Jeffrey and Sarah Boyle. 10. Spiritual Care in the presence of dementia. Peter Kevern and Dawn Brooker. 11. A companioning presence in the city, chaplaincy in Seattle USA. Kae Eaton. 12. A Muslim perspective on living well with good mental health. Monawar Hussain. 13. Through a glass darkly - the world of forensic mental health care. Sally Horner. PART III. Case studies. 14. Creating liturgies of sanctuary in a mental health inpatient setting. Rachel Allen. 15. Psychosis and spirituality. Jeremy Law. 16. Deep Talk - finding the story in our life. Judith Gilbert. 17. Resilience in mental health in living with a learning disability: Cathol Sutherland of L'Arche, Inverness. Jim Cargin. 18. 'The visiting moon', a memorable pastoral encounter in a mental health setting. Jean Fletcher. Afterword - Margaret Whipp. Contributor biographies.

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Book SynopsisReligious faith is a powerful source of comfort and support for individuals and families facing dementia. Many faith leaders need help in adapting their ministries to address the worship/spiritual needs of this group. A product of Faith United Against Alzheimer's, this handbook by 45 different authors represents diverse faith traditions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Sikhism, Buddhism and Native American. It provides practical help in developing services and creating dementia friendly faith communities. It gives an understanding of the cognitive, communicative and physical abilities of people with dementia and shows what chaplains, clergy and lay persons can do to engage them through worship. Included are several articles by persons living with dementia.Trade ReviewWe believe Dementia-Friendly Worship is fulfilled within the Great Commission; Matthew 28: 18-20. The love of God has no boundaries or limitations, and this provides our places of worship opportunities to lead with empathy while building a more inclusive, compassionate and loving community, ultimately transforming the lives of members with dementia and their families.Even if expressive ability is imperiled, Dementia-Friendly Worship provides opportunities to experience a form of worship that encourages participation and engagement through creative and spirit-filled moments during worship. This form of worship allows communities, family members and those affected with dementia the opportunity to share the wonders of God's love together. -- Rev. Dr. Tony J. Craddock, Sr., Associate Minister & Stephanie M. Craddock, Small Groups Director & Alzheimer’s Support Group Facilitator, First Mount Zion Baptist Church, Dumfries, VirginiaMy own experience in dementia ministry resonates with every section of this book. It provides theological foundations for dementia-friendly worship. It is filled with specific steps to be followed in creating dementia-friendly faith communities. Faith communities are uniquely positioned to move to the leading edge of addressing this major need of society. In this book the reader will be equipped with the understanding and practical tools needed to start the life-giving, hope-filled journey of creating dementia-friendly worship and dementia-friendly faith communities. I have seen how this experience can revitalize an entire congregation and for that reason I welcome this book as a key resource for all faith communities. -- Bishop Lawson Bryan, South Georgia Conference, United Methodist ChurchDementia-Friendly Worship provides a valuable, practical and spiritually uplifting resource for clergy of all faiths who seek meaningful ways to minister to this ever-expanding community. The personal reflections, as well as the examples of worship services from various venues, allow clergy to see and hear the voices and souls of those we care for. -- Rabbi Richard F. Address, D.Min, Director, Jewish Sacred Aging®"Dynamic, comprehensive, practical" are three words to describe Dementia-Friendly Worship. Too often people living with dementia are not invited nor involved in worship mainly because worship leaders do not know how to communicate with them. Dementia-Friendly Worship presents ideas and concepts from many faith perspectives that can be used to enhance worship in this population. Worship is not just for the lucid and healthy, but for all people which includes persons living with dementia. Thank you to Lynda Everman and Don Wendorf for putting together a book that will become a classic in the field of dementia care. -- Rich Behers, DMin., BCC, CFHPC, Spiritual Care Program Manager, CPE Supervisor, Cornerstone Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc.My beloved mother, Rebecca, died not that long ago. She had suffered the impact of Alzheimer's for 20 years. As her eldest child I struggled with how to accompany her on this cruel journey. With my siblings I experienced that first death when we had to let go of who our mother had been and accept who she became with Alzheimer's. We eventually settled in to years of learning and caring for her, while also receiving so much from her resistance to allowing her illness to erase her faith. She loved to hear the Psalms. She would close her eyes and become peaceful when I would say to her that I was going to pray for her. To her last days of life, she would hum her favorite songs of faith at daybreak. It took me too long to realize that the faith within her was sustaining her and needed nurturing. How I wish this book had been written earlier. I am deeply grateful, though, that it will bless those who live with and care for those afflicted by dementia and Alzheimer's until it is eradicated. -- Bishop Minerva Garza Carcaño, Resident Bishop, San Francisco Area, The United Methodist ChurchSince 2017, when Lynda Everman shared her vision for this book with me, I have been eagerly waiting to hold it, read it and use it. Dementia-Friendly Worship arrived and page after page filled my heart and mind. In the spirit of Dementia Friends' commitment to transform how we think, act and talk about dementia, this book adds how we engage spiritually with those living with dementia. More than a book, Dementia-Friendly Worship is a veritable library, each chapter a volume written by dedicated and knowledgeable scholars and spiritual leaders who live and serve in close proximity to the realities of dementia. They bless us with their perspectives, ideas, experiences and tools that will help spiritual leaders invite persons living with dementia to draw near to God, even as we enter their holy space. Above all, the authors collectively remind us again and again the affirmations we share across all faith traditions: God is with us and loves us; do not fear; love one another; uphold each other's humanity and come before God's presence together. For months I have been telling my circle of parish pastors, chaplains and spiritual directors, "Dementia-Friendly Worship is coming....it's coming." I'm delighted now to tell them, "It's here!" -- Cynthia L. Ray, M.Div., Executive Director, PAHSA: Presbyterian Association of Homes & Services for the AgingTable of ContentsForeword by Virginia Biggar, Executive Director, Faith, Patient & Caregiver Initiatives, UsAgainstAlzheimer's, USA. Editor's Reflections. INTRODUCTION TO DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY WORSHIP. I. Introduction: Souls Shine Forth. Daniel C. Potts, MD, FAAN, Elder (Presbyterian Church, USA). II. Worship Adaptations. Rev. Linn Possell, (The United Church of Christ, FL, USA). III. Continuing to Hear the Voice: A Reflection. Rabbi Cary Kozberg, MAHL, DD, (Jewish, USA). VOICES OF PERSONS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA. Editor's Note. IV. From Death to Life: My Alzheimer's Journey. Rev. Dr. Cynthia Huling Hummel, (Presbyterian Church, USA). V. Adventures of a Substitute Preacher with Alzheimer's. Rev. Dr. Cynthia Huling Hummel. VI. Rocks in My Head. Greg O'Brien (Roman Catholic, USA). VII. Anchor Me. Truthful Loving Kindness (Noahide, USA). VIII. Me Fe Nos Sostiene (My Faith Sustains Us). Daisy Duarte (Nondenominational Christian, USA). IX. Be Not Afraid. James L. Gulley, MA (Roman Catholic, USA). WORSHIP SERVICES. 1. The Personhood of the Clergy. 1.1. Be Open, Be Humble, Be Adaptable, and Definitely Laugh! Rev. Theresa Brion, Chaplain, Goodwin House Bailey's Crossroads, Falls Church (Episcopal, VA, USA). 1.2. Being with Alzheimer's. Rev. Tim Langdell. Ecumenical Catholic Priest & Zen Buddhist Priest, USA. 1.3. Living Kindness, Latin Prayers, Chewed Hearing Aids and the Nature of Impermanence. Chaplain Gillian Renault (Buddhist). 2. Conducting Services in Care Communities. 2.1. Nurturing the Spirit Through Worship. Rev. Kathy Fogg Berry, Chaplain, Westminster Canterbury, Interdenominational Christian, VA, USA. 2.2. Worship With Rather than For. Ret. Bishop Kenneth L. Carfer, United Methodist, USA and Norma Smith Sessions, American Baptist, USA. 2.3 Things Remembered. Chaplain Drew DeCrease, Chaplain, Redstone@Home Hospice, Roman Catholic Deacon, USA. 2.4. Worship Brainstorming. Robin Dill, United Methodist, USA. 2.5. Devotions in Respite Care Settings. Robin Dill. 2.6. That All May Worship: Creative Worship for Persons with Dementia. Rev. David J. Fetterman, United Methodist, USA, and Rec. Dr. Richard L. Morgan, Presbyterian Church, USA. 2.7. Sensing the Sacred: A Small Group Worship Experience for Those with Alzheimer's and Other Dementias. Rev. Nancy Gordon, Lutheran, USA. 2.8. A Layperson's Guide to Improvised Worship: Finding Spiritual Expression Through Intentional Connections. Elizabeth R. Reinert, MEd, Interdenominational Christian, USA. 2.9. Familia Hymns, Prayers, and Scriptures to Use in a Small Group Setting for Memory Impaired Adults. Elizabeth R. Reinert. 2.10. Thank You, Lord, For My Right Mind. Dr. Pernessa C. Seele, Christian, USA. 2.11. Spiritual Metamorphosis. Tryn Rose Seley, Christian, New Church, USA. 2.12. Making God 'Real': Using the Senses to Experience Scripture. Dr. Jane Marie Thibault, Roman Catholic, United Methodist, USA. 3. Ministering to Specific Faith Communities. 3.1. The Sacred Circle of Life: Native Americans and Dementia. Rev. Cynthia J. Abrams, Former Executive Director of the Native American United Methodist Center, Washington DC, USA. 3.2. Shabbat Services for Residents with Dementia at Miami Jewish Heath. Rabbi Israel de la Piedra, Director of Spiritual Care, Miami Health, FL, USA. 3.3. A Buddhist Approach to Connecting with CARE. Rec. Allison Draper, Zen Buddhist, USA, and Rev. Dr. Grace Schireson, Zen Buddhist, USA. 3.4. Memory Care and Shabbat. Dr Andrea (Yonina) Foster, Jewish, USA. 3.5. Seeing the Spirit Through Dementia: A Sikh Dharma Perspective. Amar Atma Singh Kalsa, Dharma Sing Khalsa, MD, Ek Ong Kaar Kaur Khalsa, Kirti Kaur Khalsa, Sarb Nam Kaur Khalsa, Sarb Sarang Kaur Khalsa, Sikh Dharma Int'l Ministers. 4. Conducting Congregational Services. 4.1. Dementia-Friendly Congregational Worship. Rev. Karen S. Dumey, Presbyterian Church, USA. 4.2. African Americans' 'Old Timer's Day'. Pastor Bobby Fields, Jr., Baptist, USA. 4.3. Walking with Individuals with Dementia and their Families: An Interfaith Service. Rev. Dr. James W. Ellor, Presbyterian Church, USA. 5. Praying and Prayers. 5.1. Prayers of Loving Kindness and Compassion from Buddhism. Olivia Ames Hoblitzelle, Buddhist, USA. 5.2. The Lord Be With You! Rev. Dr. Cynthia Huling Hummel. 5.3. Prayer for a Fellow Soldier. Rev. Bob Inkenbrandt, Nondenominational Christian, USA. 5.4. A Prayer for Forgotten Souls. Chaplain Maria Khani, Muslim, USA. 5.5. The Intimate Touch of Meditative Prayer. Carlen Maddux, Presbyterian Church, USA. 5.6. Prayer in a Jewish Long-Term Care Facility. Rabbi James R. Michaels, DMin, BBC, Jewish, USA. 5.7. The Ministry of 'Dedicated Suffering': Mutual Spiritual Practice with Persons with Dementia, Dr. Jane Marie Thibault, Roman Catholic, United Methodist, USA. BEYOND WORSHIP: DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY FAITH COMMUNITIES. I. A Church-wide Response. Kathy Fogg Berry. II. The Dementia-Friendly Church. Rev. Dr. William Randolph, United Methodist, UUMC, USA. III. Moving Beyond Name Tags. Rev. Dr. Cynthia Huling Hummel. BENEDICTION. I. That Which Endures. Ret. Bishop Kenenth L. Carder, SC, USA.

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Book SynopsisChristianity Today 2021 Award of Merit (The Church/Pastoral Leadership) Diary of a Pastor's Soul tells the story of a fictionalized pastor, embarking on his final year before retirement, who reflects on the experiences and relationships that have formed his vocation and shaped his soul over a lifetime of pastoral ministry. Drawing on his own experiences, seasoned pastor Craig Barnes invites readers to embrace the life lessons of a pastor who has been formed by his failures and his fleeting moments of glory, but most of all by discovering the holy in the routine but often quirky duties of being a parish pastor. Through 52 weekly thematic entries, Barnes presents spirituality in narrative form through a collection of interwoven stories about learning to love others with curiosity, amazement, vulnerability, and most of all gratitude for the grace found in flawed lives. Barnes's fictionalized diary approach creatively shows how the pastoral vocation forms mind, heart, and soul, helping pastors make sense of their own calling. With unvarnished honesty, this book eloquently illustrates a lifetime of ministry, revealing how "the Holy haunts the landscape of life."Table of ContentsContentsPrologue by the DiaristJulyWeek One: Writing the Faith in StoneWeek Two: A Faithfully Anonymous PastorWeek Three: The Pastor's Wife and the MustangWeek Four: Pastoral Care as Déjà VuAugustWeek One: Saying "I Love You"Week Two: A Sunday with the New York TimesWeek Three: In-Laws and the Priest ThingWeek Four: The Blessing of Old FaithSeptemberWeek One: Pastor, Not FriendWeek Two: Beth, Our New Financial PlannerWeek Three: Letting Go of Mac the CustodianWeek Four: Pastoral Lessons from My SheepdogOctoberWeek One: Falling from IllusionsWeek Two: The Pastor's HomeWeek Three: The Grace of Being OrdinaryWeek Four: The StudyWeek Five: "It Hurt My Feelings"NovemberWeek One: The Sin I Can't ForgiveWeek Two: Finding Gravitas When You're YoungWeek Three: The Pastor on the Doctor's TableWeek Four: The Pastor's PastorWeek Five: Humility to the EndDecemberWeek One: Our Faith and My FaithWeek Two: Frantically Preparing for the Prince of PeaceWeek Three: A Young Pastor in Deep WatersWeek Four: A Wedding for the NonbelieverChristmas Eve: Being Joseph in the PageantJanuaryWeek One: The Long, Gray Days of MinistryWeek Two: The Obituary WriterWeek Three: The Pastoral Search CommitteeWeek Four Announcing the Retirement 000Week Five: Listening to a FriendFebruaryWeek One: Making Sense of a Pastor's CancerWeek Two: A Wintry Funeral for Young TeddyWeek Three: The Blessed Church LadyWeek Four: Taking the Heat for GodMarchWeek One: The Weary PartisanWeek Two: I Was Done with WordsWeek Three: The Redemption of Early MistakesWeek Four: The Loss of Saturday NightsWeek Five: Call Finds a WayAprilWeek One: Struggling to Say "Behold"Week Two: The Real Problem with Being VisibleWeek Three: Hard Lessons on FlannelgraphWeek Four: Finally Loving EasterMayWeek One: The Beloved Horse's AssWeek Two: Getting It Wrong with Race and GenderWeek Three: The Adored Director of MusicWeek Four: You're Dead RightWeek Five: Dad, Not PastorJuneWeek One: Seeking the HolyWeek Two: When I Can No Longer Blame WorkWeek Three: Still Holding Back Part of MeWeek Four: The Last SurpriseEpilogue

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Book SynopsisDrawing on a range of approaches developed by paediatric chaplaincy teams worldwide, this edited collection provides best principles, practices and skills of chaplaincy work with neonates, infants, children, young people and their families.By engaging with paediatric chaplaincy from an international, multifaith perspective, contributors from around the world and different faith traditions show what good spiritual, religious and pastoral care for children and their families looks like. The book contains contributions from specialists who work with children with mental health issues or profound disabilities, as well as chapters that focus on how best to provide palliative and bereavement care. Includes resources and activities for use in specialist care situations and tools for assessment, making this a must-have for any paediatric chaplaincy team working in a hospital or hospice.Trade ReviewChildren's chaplains are simply amazing; stepping forward at what can often be the most difficult and desperate time of a family's life to provide loving care. This outstanding book is a brilliant resource to help this special community learn, share practice and inspire each other to new heights for the children, young people, families and colleagues who rely on them every day. -- Sarah-Jane Marsh, Chief Executive Officer, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s HospitalPaediatric Chaplaincy provides an empathetic and comprehensive guide to the complex work of supporting children and families spiritually during times of serious illness, palliative care, and death. An international array of authors offers evidence-based practices that respect diverse spiritual traditions, family systems, racial/ethnic identities, and sociocultural locations. A must-read for all chaplains and an excellent reference text for all clergy, educational administrators, and non-profit leaders who work with children and youth. -- Karen-Marie Yust, Rowe Professor of Christian Education, Union Presbyterian SeminaryPediatric chaplaincy finally has what it has so far lacked - a comprehensive text that covers all the major bases of the field combining the best of theory, research, and day-to-day clinical practice. This volume should be on the shelf of every chaplaincy department and every chaplain that sees pediatric patients. This is now the go-to teaching text and reference work in the field. Bravo to the editors and authors. -- Rev. George Handzo, BCC, Director, Health Services Research & Quality, HealthCare Chaplaincy NetworkPaediatric Chaplaincy fills a niche in the growing literature on chaplaincy and will prove itself to be a stimulating resource for chaplains working in that field. Yet the book also speaks to chaplaincy issues beyond paediatric care. The comprehensive nature of the editors' vision has produced a collection of papers that will be of value to chaplains in any healthcare field. -- Revd Dr Steve Nolan, Princess Alice Hospice, Esher, and The University of WinchesterI am delighted to endorse this great new resource. Rarely have I found a reference book so enjoyable to read, while providing the reader with a rich source of valuable information on spirituality, religious and pastoral care. This book, with references for further reading and suggested approaches provides a much needed resource for all those working with children and young people to develop understanding and skills. -- Katrina McNamara, Director of Service Development and Improvement, Together for Short LivesThis is a very thorough book and is an excellent resource for paediatric chaplains. -- Caroline Worsfold * The Way, a Journal of Christian Spirituality published by the British Jesuits *Table of ContentsIntroduction. Section 1. Chapter 1. Child Spirituality and Faith Development. Dr Rebecca Nye, Children's spirituality researcher and consultant, UK. Chapter 2. Insights from Child Development for Paediatric Chaplains. The Revd Dan Roberts, Chaplain Supervisor, McLane Children's Medical Center-Baylor Scott & White Health in Temple, US. Chapter 3. Spiritual, Religious and Pastoral Care of Children and Their Families. The Revd Claire Carson, Head of the Chaplaincy-Spiritual Care Department, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK. Chapter 4. Models of Chaplaincy in a Multicultural World. The Revd Paul Nash, Chaplain Senior, Birmingham Women's and Children's Hospital, UK. Chapter 5. Screening, Assessment and Charting. The Revd Mary Robinson Director of the Chaplaincy, Children's Hospital Boston, USA. Chapter 6. Approaches and Skills for Working with Children and Young People. Ryan Campbell and The Revd Dr Sally Nash, Research lead, Centre for Paediatric Spiritual Care and the Birmingham Children's Hospital Chaplaincy Team, UK. Chapter 7. Working with Families. The Revd Krista Gregory, Director, Dell Children's Resiliency Center, Austin, USA. Chapter 8. Staff Care and Self-care. The Revd Kathryn Darby, Chaplain, Birmingham Children's Hospital, UK and The Revd Carl Aiken, Manager of Spiritual Care, Women's and Children's Hospital in Adelaide, Australia. Chapter 9. Chaplain to the Institution. The Revd Jim Linthicum, Senior Chaplain, Great Ormond Street Hospital, UK. Chapter 10 Managing and Developing the Chaplaincy Provision and Team. Paul Nash. Chapter 11. Medical Ethics: Practice and Decision-making. Chaplain Mark Bartel, manager of Spiritual Care, Arnold Palmer Medical Center, USA. Section 2. Chapter 12. Giving Voice to the Story: Working with Patients Who Cannot Speak. The Revd Dr Daniel Nuzum, Healthcare Chaplain and Clinical Pastoral Education Supervisor at Cork University Hospital, Ireland. Chapter 13. Working in Mental Health. Kathryn Darby. Chapter 14. Working with Trauma and Abuse. Chaplain Bob Flory Director of Spiritual Care and Bereavement Services, Children's Hospital Colorado, USA. Chapter 15. Major Incidents. Rabbi Naomi Kalish, Coordinator of Pastoral Care and Education, New York Presbyterian Hospital, USA. Chapter 16. Palliative and End-of-Life Care. Chaplain M. Karen Ballard, director of Chaplaincy Services, Akron Children's Hospital, USA. Chapter 17. Bereavement Care. The Revd Dr Edina A. Farkas, Paediatric Chaplain, Velkey László Center for Child Health in Miskolc, Hungary and The Revd Stephen Harrison, Baptist minister, UK. Chapter 18. Transition: Journeying with Paediatric Patients into Adult care - The Chaplain's Role. Chaplain Kobena Charm, Paediatric Chaplain, LeBonheur Children's Hospital in Memphis, USA. Chapter 19. Paediatric Spirituality, Space and Environment. The Revd Wyatt Butcher, Chaplain to Mental Health Service, Canterbury District Health Board, New Zealand and Dr Lindsay Carey, Palliative Care Unit, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Australia. Chapter 20. Paediatric Chaplaincy and Research. The Revd Dr Daniel H. Grossoehme, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, USA and Lindsay B. Carey. Chapter 21. Through These Dark Valleys: A Paediatric Chaplain's Response to the Problem of God and Evil. The Revd Kathleen Ennis-Durstine, Manager of InterFaith Pastoral and Spiritual Care, Children's National Health System in Washington, D.C, USA. Chapter 22. Perspectives on Suffering from Major Faith and Worldview Traditions. Emma Roberts, Research Assistant, Birmingham Children's Hospital Chaplaincy, UK. Conclusion.

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