"Being There" is both simple and profound. Simple, in that it applies the considerable experience and insights of the author to the basic affirmation of "The Healing Power of Presence" in the most ordinary of settings for the reader. Forster writes in a style that is accessible and understandable. He is practical and realistic. Profound, in that it addresses the challenges and opportunities of being those who are "good to have around in troubled times, even though (or maybe precisely because) they don't try to fix things but are simply there with us."
Forster draws upon his people-centred work in both health and church contexts and enables the reader to consider the qualities of presence, practical pitfalls and potential for good, and introduces counselling insights alongside Judaeo-Christian spirituality.
His use of a range of biblical material is creative and helpful. Forster uses each example as a framework or lens for careful attentive listening and reflection for others. His use of the Exodus - "crossing the sea" - for a realistic appraisal of the "long night of waiting" is really insightful. "The biggest challenge to Moses is not the sea, or the advancing forces of oppression, but the internal turmoil in the minds of the people". Forster is clearly someone who knows the reality of such turmoil in the minds of others. This book is a treasure for anyone wishing to "be there" for others.

Hey this book is really good! I really like the writing style and feel it makes some great points - I especially liked the bit on Empathy. I believe this book will do an important service to the cross-pollination of the disciplines of psychology and ministry. I was most struck by the section on not having expectations about how a person will be or what they will do, but rather respecting their otherness. The book also offers an important reminder that just 'being there' having cups of tea with people, listening, without expectations or trying to get anything may be all some people need. As we are all involved in relationships in some way or another, this book is really a book for everyone. Highly recommended!

The book I wish I'd written - for years I have been teaching pastoral care to ordinands and other prospective church leaders, drawing on my pastoral experience and counselling training. Michael Forster's book brings together the best insights of person-centred counselling and pastoral wisdom in a book that is an invaluable resource for ministers and pastoral carers.