Gathering together thoughts and visions of experienced practitioners, academics, educators and strategic leaders from around the world, this edited volume sheds light on the nature of chaplaincy and its role and significance within ever-changing contemporary healthcare systems.

A wide range of issues central to spiritual care delivery are covered, including reflections on what it feels like to be cared for by a chaplain through illness; the nature of chaplaincy as a profession; and how chaplains can engage with healthcare institutions in ways that have integrity yet are also deeply spiritual. The focus throughout is that chaplaincy should not only be guidance for people in distress, as a form of crisis intervention, but is rather about helping to promote wellbeing and enhance people's quality of life.

Where specialisms tend to fragment systems and individuals, this book seeks to show that true health and wellbeing can only be found through a holistic approach, and shows how chaplaincy can bring this to the table. This book is for anyone who recognises the centrality of spirituality for wellbeing, and wishes to see what that might look like in practice.

Ewan Kelly is the former Programme Director for Healthcare Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care in NHS Education for Scotland and founding research co-ordinator of the European Research Institute for Chaplains in Healthcare, based in KU Leuven, Belgium. He currently works freelance as an educator and writer.

John Swinton is Professor in Practical Theology and Pastoral Care at the University of Aberdeen. He has a background in nursing and healthcare chaplaincy and has researched and published extensively in practical theology, mental health, spirituality and human wellbeing.