The first volume of this Applied Theology course, Go…and Make Disciples, dealt with ministry to groups and the building up of congregations. This second book emphasizes caring for people as individuals, and the pastor’s role as counsellor. Examples from a variety of cultural backgrounds provide a starting point for identifying and dealing with an individual’s needs in the local setting. The author, who spent many years in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, is specially concerned that Western concepts and methods of counselling should not be foisted on to other societies without adequate understanding of their culture. He is also careful to relate the methods suggested to biblical teaching and to the practice of pastoral care as experienced in the Church throughout the centuries. As is usual for the ISG series, the text is supported with illustrations, questions and discussion material. ‘Opens up exciting new areas for thought, study and discussion.’ Contact. ‘There is much sheer common sense in every section. A most readable book, carefully thought out and based on unique experience.’ Church Times.

The International Study Guides (ISGs) are clear and accessible resources, contextual and ecumenical in content and missional in direction. It offers biblical commentaries, pastoral care, church history and theology, and is aimed primarily at people training to serve the church for whom English is an additional language, so the books are clearly written and designed for student use. The contributors are theological educators who come from different countries and different religious backgrounds, and bring practical emphasis alongside contemporary scholarly reflection.

For over 40 years the ISG series has equipped those in ministerial formation to develop their own theology and discern God’s mission in their context. As part of commitment to supporting the global Church, SPCK distributes ISGs to students training to serve the church in the developing world.

To support the work of our ISGs Worldwide, click here.