Book Review: Premarital Guidance

Abstract

and permanent diaconate, relying on the results of a generic psychological battery is foolhardy. Clever individuals with severe personality disorders, particularly narcissistic and psychopathic personalities, can and have passed the scrutiny of the MMPI, for example. Witness the number of ministers who have been convicted of pedophilia and embezzlement who were "tested" before entering the seminary. Given the number of ministry abuse and fraudulent behavior reports that have become more common in our day, I found Ministry and Community to be a challenging and insightful book to review. There is a saying, "Erect a building and the structure shapes you." In so many ways, the genius of this invaluable and compact book is found in its accurate description of DSM-IV personality disorders. The text will speak to the reader in many soul-searching ways, "Are these traits part of my behavior or colleagues?" Or with institutional ramifications, "In what ways do the various organizations in which I am an active member either foster or heal impairment?" These questions will not easily leave the reader. Ministry and Community is really a sober resource for all religious denominations, their training programs, ministers, and co-workers. It is especially recommended for those engaged in recruitment work, formation of ministers, pastoral counselors, spiritual directors, and clinical psychiatrists who treat ministry personnel or consult on behalf of church groups. Ministry and Community is an informative and provocative work. I recommend Ministry and Community for anyone considering service in church ministry, or presently engaged in ministry leadership or supervisory positions.