For those who want to know what pastoral care is, the choice can be overwhelming. There is a confusing variety of concepts, teachings, and schools. Just like in other practical-theological sub-disciplines, the theory has differentiated and established itself in various church-related fields. Can a theological foundation be identified in the theory? Is there a common denominator in practice? Those seeking answers will find a compact and focused response in this book. The contributions reflect pastoral care as a versatile field of work within the community, grounded in expertise and exemplified in concrete terms. Featuring contributions from Bernd Beuscher, Corinna Dahlgrün, Wolfgang Drechsel, Dörte Gebhard, Eberhard Hauschildt, Michael Klessmann, Ralph Kunz, Kerstin Lammer, Michael Meyer-Blanck, Christian Möller, Christoph Morgenthaler, Isabelle Noth, Ilona Nord, and Traugott Roser.