from the Editorial
For the latter part of the 20th Century John Foskett has been and continues to be a central figure in practical theology, pastoral care and counselling in Britain, and he has made a considerable impact upon the international scene. The contributions witness to the ways in which John has cajoled and charmed people and institutions towards change; whether by inspiring confidence, or by being bloody-minded, or simply by being there.
A picture emerges of someone who seeks God where God may be found - not, he would say, in academic institutions where theology is taught; nor in corridors of power; nor where everything is sorted and clear cut. God is found with the mad; with intimations of death; in the very messiness of life. God is found with people who struggle with making sense of themselves and their place in the world. God is found where society's shoes pinch most.
Everyone who writes here expresses their affection for John. It comes through in the occasional comment, or in the tone of their writing - more than anything, in their desire to see him honoured. They speak for many people, over many years, who would have no hesitation in saying that their knowledge of John has been a pearl of greatest price.
Frances Ward
Contents
'Pearls before Swine': the Story of the Southwark Pastoral Care and Counselling Scheme
John Foskett
John Foskett: Playful Prophet
Emmanuel Lartey
John Foskett: The Supervisor who inspires Hope
Marta Hubai-Muzsnai
John Foskett - One of God's Masks
Tor Johan Grevbo
Holding the Forgotten in Mind - a Tribute to John Foskett
Gordon Lynch
Bias to the Poor in Spirit: Reflections on the Ministry of John Foskett
David Lyall