Chaplaincy has emerged as a highly significant form of ministry in the twenty-first century, and chaplaincy studies is growing as a field of study that learns from the experience and work of chaplains in their diverse sectors. Chaplains from a range of different faith traditions pioneer ministry within the secular yet religiously plural contexts of contemporary life with often considerable creativity and skill, generating a wealth of insight to be gleaned for understanding the place of faith in the modern world. One of the disciplines that has been most concerned with gleaning those insights and developing the field of chaplaincy studies is practical theology. The journal Practical Theology (formerly Contact) is a key repository for much of the wisdom gained through such study, and this book draws on the archive of the journal to trace the development of chaplaincy research and provide a resource for those seeking to join the conversation about the nature and significance of chaplaincy as a form of ministry and mission today. Drawing on different sectors of chaplaincy and different methodological approaches, this book is invaluable for those engaged in chaplaincy work, those seeking to research that work, and for anyone interested in contemporary, pioneering forms of ministry.

This book is the first detailed academic study of megachurches in the UK. In particular, it explores the nature and significance of social engagement by megachurches in the context of London. The research contains empirical case studies of two Anglican and three African diaspora Pentecostal churches. As well as exploring the range of social engagement activities provided by these churches, the study offers explanations in term of theological motivations and the influence of globalisation. Subsequently, the book outlines the importance of the findings for the relationship between church and society in the contemporary context, addressing the implications for social policy and practice. The book advances discussions in public theology, megachurch studies, Pentecostal and Charismatic studies and ecclesiology.