There is an urgent need today to deepen and enrich the pastoral dimension of Sunday worship. This book attempts to meet that need. The practical guidance that is offered has its foundation in rigorous and comprehensive theological reflection. This reflection draws not only on the riches of the Christian heritage, but also on some wonderfully illuminating psychological research. The conversation between the two disciplines yields some very interesting and important new ideas on worship as pastoral care. Each chapter consists of a theoretical base and a number of practical suggestions and resources. Most of the prayers, litanies, and rituals are original; there are also references to other useful worship resources. This book will revolutionize the way you think about worship as pastoral care.

Neil Pembroke is Senior Lecturer in Pastoral Studies, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Edinburgh. His books include The Art of Listening (2002), Renewing Pastoral Practice (2006), and Moving Toward Spiritual Maturity (2007)

Neil Pembroke is a lecturer in pastoral care, School of Theology, Flinders University of South Australia and the Adelaide College of Divinity.

Introduction

Part 1: Reconciliation
1. Confessions of a Sly Psyche
2. Shame, Confession, and God's Affirming Gaze

Part 2: Lament
3. Asserting Ourselves Before God
4. Praying our Anger

Part 3: Hope
5. Hope Needs Witnesses
6. Hopes Needs an Ironic Imagination

Part 4: Communion
7. Individualization, Christianization, and the Sacraments
8. Maintaining Self in Communion

Bibliography