Priests and pastoral caregivers often accompany people who are struggling to negotiate experiences of sickness, bereavement or anxiety.

There are no easy answers in such situations, no formulaic remedies, no slick theological explanations. The process of being present, listening and responding is demanding and requires skills and wisdom beyond ministers' own experience. Often, caregivers feel they receive more than they give in such encounters.

Samuel Wells reflects theologically and pastorally on twenty such encounters that were both hugely challenging and hugely instructive for him. The result is a book of profound practical wisdom and understanding that will inform and enrich pastoral ministry for all who read it.

An extended introduction on the nature and practice of pastoral ministry introduces these memorable and moving accounts.