How the pastor reads a situation theologically will define the possibilities for ministry now and for the church's future.

The pastor's theological lens effects every ministry task. This book introduces students to the importance of theological reflection. It tells them why theological reflection is crucial to who they are and what they do, and  it shows them how they can acquire and strengthen their capacity for theological attentiveness.

Central to Wood and Blue's approach is the conviction that pastoral character and pastoral practice are mutually formative. Also through the practice of ministry the pastor's identity is both continually discovered and continually worked on and worked out. All pastors must integrate who they believe themselves to be and who they believe God is to be effective leaders.

Charles M. Wood is Lehman Professor of Christian Doctrine at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University.

Ellen Blue is Assistant Professor of History of Christianity and United Methodist Studies at Phillips Theological Seminary in Tulsa, Oklahoma.