Drawing on almost 30 years ministry in varied settings, these pastoral tales reveal the humour, emotions, deep spiritual encounters & sudden surprises, that make up the 'secret wallpaper' of a minister's life. Each story is accompanied by a theological reflection designed both to inform & to stimulate, the reader's own thoughts. It is particularly recommended for: * those seeking encouragement & inspiration in their own Christian pilgrimage * ministers & would-be ministers, of any Christian tradition * churchwardens and similar officers * any who would like to understand their clergy/ministers a little better. Called away from a white-coated scientific career, the author describes happy, sad, surreal & divine encounters in parish life, largely outside the confines of the church. It reflects on experience in hospital, housing estate, commuter belt and rural settings, and tackles current issues, including aggressive atheism, same-sex marriage, and some worrying trends in today's church.