The 'why' and 'how' of social ministry are the focus of Dieter T. Hessel's exploration of the church's responsibility in a time of deepening social crisis. Believing that all church members share a common ministry that is social in every aspect Hessel shows the central functions of parish life, including liturgy, Bible study, pastoral care, social service, community organization, and public policy action have a dynamic social significance. In the course of looking at the all-encompassing nature of social ministry Hessel interviewed many clergy and lay leaders throughout the United States. From them he derived fresh insight into what congregations are doing in society and the problems they are encountering in fully developing a social ministry.