The idea which has brought this book into being emerged from two sources. In the first place there was the desire to pay tribute to Seward Hiltner for his tremendous contribution to the life of the church through his work in pastoral theology. The second concern which gave rise to this volume was a desire to explore the various aspects and factors in pastoral theology which have been set in motion or enhanced by Hiltner's own experiences and publications. Every essay is written by a person who has had a close relationship with Hiltner, either as a student at the graduate level or as a colleague in research and teaching. - Introduction.