The Blackwell Reader in Pastoral and Practical Theology focuses on the theoretical background and the theological foundations of pastoral theology in order to give both undergraduate and graduate students all the information necessary to become competent in the field. A preface by John Patton and a comprehensive introductory section, provide a critical overview and introduction to the field of pastoral studies within the context of modern theology, together with a historical perspective on the development of the discipline in the modern era. Further sections focus on the methods of pastoral theology, relating theory to practice, and on the evaluation of pastoral theology. Classic, contemporary and newly commissioned articles together with an extensive bibliography and reference section make this collection an invaluable resource.

The Revd Dr James Woodward is Master of the Foundation of Lady Katherine Leveson, Temple Balsall, and is the Bishop's Advisor for Health and Social Care in the Diocese of Birmingham.

Dr Stephen Pattison is currently Senior Research Fellow in Pastoral Theology, University of Wales, Cardiff.

John Patton is Professor of Theology at Columbia Theological Seminary, Georgia.