Scholars of theology mostly from Britain, the Netherlands, and the US, but also Germany and South Africa, use the core concepts of hermeneutics and empirical research to help them reflect on contemporary Dutch theologian Ven's contribution to practical theology. In sections on empirical theology, fundamental practical theology, and subdisciplines in practical theology, they discuss such topics as a quantitative empirical study of young people in Germany, a comparative analysis between Ven and practical theologians in the US, redefining pastoral care and counseling, and challenges for the modern church in empirical ecclesiology. Ven responds to the essays with his own on a comparative empirical theology of mindful action. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)