Shepherding Souls

This volume presents a rare combination of good history, reliable theology, pastoral wisdom, and ecumenical awareness. Strout's cultural accounts are apt, helpful, and representative. He makes use of the latest Roman Catholic, Episcopalian, Lutheran, Methodist and Presbyterian liturgy books. And his pastoral observations are themselves marked by the very flexibility, 'theological nimbleness,' and wisdom he often recommends. * Gordon Lathrop, Professor of Liturgy Emeritus, United Lutheran Seminary, and Past President, Societas Liturgica * Written in non-technical language and with an ecumenical scope, Shepherding Souls is a valuable resource for pastors, seminarians, and lay leaders. Each chapter examines a specific rite's history, theology, and related practices, addresses common concerns, and concludes with useful questions/prompts and a bibliography. * Karen B. Westerfield Tucker, Professor of Worship, Boston University School of Theology * Shawn Strout has prepared an eminently usable, pastoral, ecumenical guide to the Pastoral Offices. Written by an Episcopal liturgical scholar for those working in parishes, it is a substantial overview of each of the offices, giving insight to historical development, theological meaning, and current shape for pastoral-liturgical enrichment. * Michael Witczak, Associate Professor of Liturgical Studies and Sacramental Theology, The Catholic University of America *