"Dr de Wal provides a timely handbook for the growing number of Humanists who offer chaplaincy support in our hospitals, educational institutions, and workplaces of all kinds. Chaplaincy is a fast-growing form of ministry, and Humanism is a growing area of practice. While there are practical and theological guides and training courses for faith chaplains, particularly those in Christian traditions, de Wal has spotted the gap in Humanist guidance, and steps in wisely and compassionately to meet it."
Revd Dr Harriet Harris, MBE FRSE, University Chaplain at the University of Edinburgh
This comprehensive and timely book is a much-needed resource for everyone involved in pastoral support, blending robust theory with practical application. It is certain to become an essential manual for practitioners at every career stage wanting to provide the very best care across a diverse range of settings.
Andrew Copson, OBE FCIPD FCMI, Chief Executive of Humanists UK
This book provides a much-needed analysis of humanist chaplaincy and the complex and demanding places in which it operates. It is both an effective resource for people providing non-religious care and, importantly, an invaluable insight into the humanist approach to chaplaincy for religious practitioners. Lindsay de Wals book is a seminal work in the evolving field of chaplaincy studies, skilfully informed by both practice and study. Written with clarity and conviction, it is an essential addition to the library of contemporary chaplaincy.
The Rev Dr Chris Swift, former President of the College of Health Care Chaplains
Having read through the first chapter it is clear that the author has researched the topic in great detail. The extensive bibliography shows this, but also provides material for anyone wanting to obtain more information about certain points; an important resource for a topic such as this.
The order in which it is presented, from historical to present day, shows very clearly how Humanist pastoral care has evolved and developed.
Having discussion questions at the end is an excellent idea as the chapter certainly has enough material for enquiring minds and covers questions which are important and help understand the material.
Sandy Edwards, Hon. Humanist Chaplain for the University of St. Andrews and volunteer for the Tayside Spiritual and Health Care Committee
This book would have been invaluable when I first began my journey into humanist chaplaincy three years ago. It places humanist chaplaincy in its historical and social context, clearly mapping overlaps and distinctions with religious chaplaincy and other forms of support such as counselling and psychotherapy.
Each chapter thoughtfully explores a key areas of humanist chaplaincy; ranging from inter-belief team dynamics, bereavement and end-of-life care, to supporting individuals with religious needs. Insights are grounded in research, Lindsay de Wals lived experience, and a broad selection of case studies that bring the material to life. Succinct summaries and reflective questions at the end of each chapter support learning in an accessible and engaging way.
While the book draws extensively from healthcare chaplaincy examples, which is an area where non-religious chaplaincy has become most established, its core principles are readily applicable across a wide range of pastoral care settings.
The book concludes with a compelling and hopeful vision for the future of humanist chaplaincy. It is both practical and inspiring and an essential read for anyone entering the field.
Mark Salter, Volunteer Humanist Chaplain, the University of Nottingham
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