As described by its editor, this book is "an applied spirituality handbook" for individuals involved on a daily basis in the work of pastoral care. The five chapters and 32 articles cover ways to provide spiritual guidance; the essential knowledge needed; the links between spirituality, theology, sacred scripture, and psychology; contemporary topics in spirituality; and ministry to special populations such as adolescents and African-Americans. The best articles are by Shaun McCarty on the basics of spiritual direction; Joann Wolski Conn on the challenges of women's spirituality; Robert Morneau on poets as advisors to spiritual directors, and Joyce Rupp on rediscovering God in the midst of our work.