Ford, Coleman M., and Shawn J. Wilhite. Ancient Wisdom for the Care of Souls: Learning the Art of Pastoral Ministry from the Church Fathers. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2024. 233 pp. $23.99.
Ancient Wisdom for the Care of Souls: Learning the Art of Pastoral Ministry from the Church Fathers is a compelling exploration of how early Christian teachings can inform and enrich contemporary pastoral ministry. Drawing from the writings of early pastors and theologians, the authors present a vision for pastoral care that emphasizes humility, contemplation, and the nurturing of souls. The authors argue that modern pastoral practice often lacks theological depth and spiritual intentionality, tending toward pragmatism and managerialism.
The purpose of the book is to reintroduce the wisdom of the early church fathers to modern pastors, church leaders, and theological students—especially those in evangelical and Protestant contexts—by showing how early Christian thought can enrich and shape contemporary pastoral ministry. In the book’s introduction, the authors write, “We offer a simple vision of a pastor who prays, tends to people’s souls, and preaches the life-giving word of God” (6).
The work is divided into three sections: (1) the virtues and spiritual life of the pastor, (2) the theological vision of a pastor, and (3) the ministry of a pastor. Each chapter highlights a particular church father and applies their insights to modern pastoral challenges, including preaching, sacramental life, contemplation, humility, and trinitarian theology. The book ultimately contends that pastoral ministry must be shaped by a deep engagement with the theological and spiritual heritage of the early church, offering a historically rooted model of ministry that forms both pastors and congregations in Christlikeness.
This volume serves as both an accessible introduction to patristic thought and a constructive theological proposal for pastoral renewal. It invites readers, especially those in evangelical and Protestant traditions, to recover the wisdom of the past and cultivate a more faithful and spiritually formative pastoral practice today.
Chapter 1 emphasizes humility as foundational for pastoral ministry, drawing from Basil of Caesarea’s teachings.Basil’s monastic principles underscore the importance of self-denial and service, urging pastors to lead not from a place of authority but from genuine humility as exemplified through Christ. They write, “Yet, just as humanity lost the glory of God by rejecting humility, so did God bring them back to glory by entering their humanity through humility” (27). The authors suggest that true pastoral leadership involves guiding others through personal example and spiritual integrity.
Gregory of Nyssa’s concept of the soul’s ascent toward God is central in chapter 2, exploring the idea that pastoral ministry is a journey of continuous spiritual growth. Pastors are encouraged to view their role as facilitators of this ascent, guiding their congregations through teaching, prayer, and personal example. The emphasis is on the transformative power of spiritual disciplines in both personal and communal contexts. They warn pastors against ignoring their own spiritual growth in pursuit of administrative tasks, which can ultimately lead to ministry burnout.
Chapter 3 focuses on Ambrose of Milan and discusses the role of sacraments in pastoral care. Ambrose’s writings highlight the significance of baptism and the Eucharist as means of grace and communal identity. The authors argue that understanding and administering sacraments is vital for nurturing faith and unity within the church and should, therefore, be taken very seriously.
In the fourth chapter, Origen’s exegetical methods and theological insights are examined to illustrate the importance of scriptural literacy and interpretive skill in pastoral ministry. This chapter encourages pastors to engage deeply with Scripture, developing their ability to teach and apply biblical truths effectively. The authors urge pastors to nurture the souls of their congregants as well as their own as they take on the role of shepherd seriously by honing the skills that God has given them. The authors state, “Though the task of becoming a skilled pastor looms large, we should not be overwhelmed but rather humbled that God desires to use our words and work to bring life to his people” (94).
Chapter 5 examines Irenaeus’s defense against heresies and how his commitment to apostolic teaching underscore the necessity of sound doctrine. The chapter highlights the pastor’s role in safeguarding theological integrity and transmitting the faith accurately. Emphasis is placed on the continuity of biblical teaching and the importance of grounding ministry in the narrative of Scripture. Building on Irenaeus’s teachings, the authors urge pastors to engage with the Scriptures as the apostles did and to recognize the supernatural realm depicted in Scripture.
Athanasius’s focus on the incarnation and the divinity of Christ is central to chapter 6. The authors argue that a Christocentric approach is essential for pastoral ministry, influencing preaching, counseling, and discipleship. By keeping Christ at the center, pastors can guide their congregations toward a deeper understanding of salvation and the Christian life.
Chapter 7 explores Augustine’s integration of theology and pastoral care, emphasizing the role of doctrine in addressing the human condition. It discusses how Augustine’s teachings on grace, sin, and redemption inform a compassionate and theologically robust pastoral practice. Pastors are encouraged to engage with theological concepts to better understand and minister to their congregants’ needs.
Chapter 8 considers the life and ministry of Gregory of Nazianzus and the trinitarian pastor. The classical doctrine of the Trinity constitutes the foundational framework for Christian theology, shaping not only the content of faith but also the practice of pastoral ministry. Far from being a merely speculative or abstract doctrine, trinitarian theology serves as a vital resource for cultivating ecclesial life, informing both the proclamation of the gospel and the spiritual formation of the community.
The life and writings of Gregory of Nazianzus demonstrate that doctrinal fidelity to the triune God is inherently pastoral in nature. To embody a trinitarian vision of ministry does not necessitate advanced academic training in systematic theology, but rather a disposition of theological humility and exegetical attentiveness to Scripture. It is through such faithful engagement with the triune identity of God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—that pastors are equipped to guide their congregations into a deeper knowledge of God and participation in the divine life.
Chapter 9 delves into Gregory the Great’s vision of the contemplative life as integral to pastoral ministry. Gregory advocates for a balance between action and contemplation, suggesting that pastors must cultivate personal holiness and reflection to minister effectively. The authors encourage pastors to prioritize spiritual disciplines and personal devotion as foundations for public ministry.
John Chrysostom’s eloquence and commitment to biblical preaching are highlighted in chapter 10, emphasizing the transformative power of the spoken word. The chapter discusses the importance of preaching that is both theologically sound and practically applicable. Pastors are urged to develop their preaching skills to effectively communicate Scripture and inspire spiritual growth among their congregants.
In the concluding chapter, the authors blend the insights from the church fathers, advocating for a pastoral ministry deeply rooted in theological reflection and spiritual formation. They call for a return to a model of ministry that prioritizes the care of souls, informed by the wisdom of early Christian leaders. They give practical ways to implement the lessons learned from the patristic fathers that modern pastors and students alike will find helpful. The book concludes with a suggested reading list for further exploration of patristic writings and their relevance to contemporary pastoral practice.
Ancient Wisdom for the Care of Souls offers a timely and compelling invitation to pastors and ministry leaders to rediscover the theological depth and spiritual richness of the early church. Ford and Wilhite present a vision of pastoral ministry that is not driven by cultural pragmatism or institutional performance, but by a historically rooted and spiritually formative model of caring for souls. Their retrieval of patristic wisdom—particularly from figures like Augustine, Gregory the Great, and Chrysostom—challenges contemporary pastors to view their role not merely as managers or motivators, but as spiritual physicians called to guide people toward holiness. By reengaging with the church fathers, today’s church leaders are invited to reclaim a more faithful, contemplative, and theologically rich vision of ministry—one in which the care of souls remains at the very heart of the pastoral vocation.
