The practice of pastoral care: Revisiting the generalist

Abstract

In a day of reliance on specialists, how can generalist practitioners like clergy be confident of the value of their contributions? The theoretical validity and practical implications of such religious resources as meaning, mystery, providence, values, grace, and community are discussed. Although various psychological schools of thought have also confirmed the importance of these dynamics, the clergy can validate them from within the discipline of religion itself. Thus, ministers as general practitioners in the community can work with self-confidence in cooperation with other mental health workers. © 1984 Institutes of Religion and Health.