Those experienced in pastoral formation realize that pastoral experiences are best converted into pastoral learning when adequately targeted, practiced, and processed. This handbook suggests five conceptual underpinnings to improve the pastoral learning environment in a parish setting: (a) the significance of the term "vocation", (b) Church guidance for pastoral learning, (c) principles of experiential learning, (d) knowing the difference between career mentoring and pastoral mentoring, and (e) the value of group processing of pastoral experiences. These underpinnings provide the rationale for suggesting the concept of Teaching Parish, a model that parallels the Teaching Hospital.