This empirical study explores how the sampled priests understand their priesthood. Chris A. Fallon reviews Liverpool's history of expansion and decline, which has left fewer and older priests serving fewer active Catholics and an undiminished number who still require baptisms, first communions, marriages and funerals. It contrasts the models of priesthood found in Liverpool with American studies of the cultic and servant leader models of priesthood, taking into account the theological viewpoints and personality profiles of the individuals who took part.

The Soul-Winner's Secret demonstrates a series of techniques and traits which ministers and missionaries alike must employ to convert wayward souls to the cause of Jesus Christ. Winning souls is not easy or for the fainthearted; often, those who have strayed from the embrace of the Lord are either ashamed or of poor moral character; consequently, they feel unable to reconcile with the Christian faith. Brengle demonstrates how winning souls to the cause is a matter of having the correct message in mind, possessing the means to perceive the character and desires of others, and preserving one's own health and the finances of one's church. Samuel Logan Brengle was an early commissioner of the Salvation Army; a position which led him to encounter many unfortunate people. The organization would help many thousands of unlucky individuals who had been variously struck by poverty or misfortune; setting these souls back on their feet remains the organization's mission to this day.