Dieter Hessel assesses major new developments that have occurred in both church and society since the first publication of 'Social Ministry' ten years ago. He gives special attention to the uncertainty that churches face today in regard to their public role.

Dieter T. Hessel is director of the Program on Ecology, Justice, and Faith. His publications include Earth Habit: Eco-Injustice and the Church's Response and Christianity and Ecology: Seeking the Well-being of Earth and Humans.