At last, an authoritative and comprehensive study of the connection between faith and mental health which doesn't shy away from making helpful practical applications. This is a timely book, written by a number of distinguished authors, which directly engages with the various challenges faced by Christians when confronted by mental illness and mental health care. The Biblical material is thoroughly addressed, emotions are sensitively considered, and we are all invited to discuss the 'stigma' which has so often surrounded mental ill-health. It will appeal especially to clergy, clinicians and lay theologians, but anyone with an interest in what it means to be fully human and healthy will benefit hugely from the way in which it brings scripture to bear on our everyday experience. I found it full of fascinating insights and commend it very warmly indeed. -- Rt Revd James Newcome, Bishop of Carlisle
Scholarly and yet accessible, this excellent book speaks with a diversity of voices about mental health and illness, and the lifelong challenge of finding our stories in God's big story, and the centrality of Scripture in this process. It will be a useful resource for those involved in Christian pastoral work, as well as those seeking to integrate their faith with their life experiences as someone living with, or alongside those with, mental illness. -- Revd. Dr Alison J Gray, FRCPsych
This timely collection of essays connects biblical studies to the sciences of mental healthcare, and theology to lived experience, with both creativity and care. Full of insight, intellectually robust, and consistently honest about the fragile spaces we inhabit, its authors explore from multiple angles how God can be present within frailty, not beyond it. There are rich resources here for church leaders, counsellors, and all concerned to give and receive support for mental wellbeing, not least in our present traumatic times. -- John M.G. Barclay FBA, Lightfoot Professor of Divinity, Durham University
