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Description

Psychology for Christian Ministry is a comprehensive and unique introduction to psychology as it is relevant to those training for and working in the clergy. Proceeding from the understanding that psychology is the discipline that illuminates those processes of personal change and growth central to religion, the volume ranges over many aspects of the subject, covering social, developmental, educational, occupational and counselling psychology, as well as the psychology of religion. Material is structured according to four major themes: Orientation, Personal Aspects of Religion, Psychology of the Church and Psychology of Pastoral Practice. This professional handbook, the definitive textbook in its field, is tailored to meet the specific needs of the Christian ministry as they encounter psychology in their training and their everyday work.

Reviews

'There is much wisdom and, especially for the pastor, useful advice on how to apply psychological insights to ministry.' - Wesley Carr, Westminster Abbey, Theology

'For those seeking to discover what help the discipline of psychology can provide for those engaged in Christian ministry, this is an excellent and long overdue starting place.' - Vaughan S. Roberts, Reviews in Religion and Theology

Contents

Part 1: Personality and religion 1. Spirituality 2. The psychology of church services 3. Diversity among Christians 4. Unhealthy religion Part 2: Development and teaching 5. Childhood and adolescence 6. Religious development 7. Teaching and preaching Part 3: Counselling and pastoral care 8. ageing, illness, bereavement, and dying 9. Emotional problems 10. Counselling and pastoral care Part 4: Organisation and the church 11. Social Processes in church life 12. The church as an organisation 13. Clergy Part 5: Psychology and theology 14. Concepts of human nature 15. Psychology and theology Afterword Bibliography Index

Additional Information

• Illustrations: Illustrations