This is a must read for those in any Pastoral Ministry:

In today's Church, there often appears to be a conflict between those who are doctrinally strong and those who "care about people." Thomas Oden does an excellent service by showing that a Christian (especially a Pastor or Pastoral Counselor) can and should use the resources of the Christian tradition as a tool of compassionate ministry. Oden demonstrates that Church writers and theologians from the Apostolic, Patristic, Medieval and Reformation eras had a sound grasp of human psychology, and that their insights are valid today. One does not have to turn to secular or feel-good New Age spirituality to connect with individuals. The Christian tradition does have the answers if one is willing to look for them. Another strength of Oden's book is his ecumenical focus … writers from Roman Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant traditions are consulted.   -  By John B. Erthein "Pastor John" (Elderton, PA United States)