<p>Every church congregation encounters challenging situations, some the same the world over, and others specific to each church. Richard Osmer here seeks to teach congregational leaders -- including, but not limited to, clergy -- the requisite knowledge and skills to meet such situations with sensitivity and creativity.</p><p>Osmer develops a framework for practical theological interpretation in congregations by focusing on four key questions: <em>What is going on in a given context? Why is this going on? What ought to be going on?</em> and <em>How might the leader shape the context to better embody Christian witness and mission?</em></p><p>The book is unique in its attention to interdisciplinary issues and the ways that theological reflection is grounded in the spirituality of leaders. Useful, accessible, and lively -- with lots of specific examples and case studies -- Osmer's <em>Practical Theology</em> effectively equips congregational leaders to guide their communities with theological integrity.</p>