This is a new release of the original 1949 edition.

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Generations of clergy have been accustomed to assume that pastoral training is concerned with the practical side of their ministry: how to organize, how to visit, how to hold the baby when baptizing. Ultimate questions of purpose and value were ignored. Often this can still be the case, but such an approach inevitably seems superficial when the question haunting any minister explicit or unspoken, is 'what am I for?' This is the question which Frank Wright never allows to be forgotten. Without vision, he argues, there can be no effective pastoral ministry. And vision means above all the refusal to escape into clerical havens of parochial organization and liturgical reform and the acceptance of the real demands made on anyone who tries to be a real pastor and counsellor. This book is short, vivid, down-to-earth and easy to read; at the same time it is demanding reading, because what it recognizes as the essentials of the ministry ask so much: openness, insight, self-awareness, unlimited caring. Paradoxically, much of what Frank Wright says stresses the essential humanness of the pastor and his ministry, blurring yet further the lines between priesthood and the rest of the world; yet as in so many other spheres, loss is gain, and what finally emerges is indeed a vision which could give new purpose to pastoral care. This is a very good book. In my opinion it is a must for all clergy and ordinands, no matter of what denomination and churchmanship. Because of its direct simplicity of style, combined with the depth and insight of its message, I would also hope that it would reach a much wider readership among all those who are concerned with pastoral ministry, ordained or lay' (Theology). If it were possible I would make a present of this book to all who are "called to minister" on the strict condition they read it again and again' (Methodist Recorder).

Canon Wright has produced a thoughtful, sensitive and helpful book that shows what lies at the heart of true pastoral rare. He obviously has a tremendous reverence for ordinary people and shows a n awareness of their needs that can only have come out of pastoral experience at the deepest levels. Pavoral Care Jr Lay People ought to be required reading for all those dedicated people who serve as Samaritans, . Although the author is primarily addressing devout Christians, it is clear that what he is saying he regards.as applying in large measure to members of other religions or none' (Church Times).

A revision in one volume of three previous books which have found widespread acclaim and appreciation. Combines clarity of style, imaginative use of literary sources and lived experience with theological reflection.