Stephen Louden is a Roman Catholic priest based in Cambridge. He is a Monsignor and former chaplain to the armed forces. Leslie Francis is Professor of Pastoral Theology at the University of Wales (Bangor).

Based on a survey sent out to Catholic clergy in the UK, this study is a major contribution from empirical theology towards interpreting the health and potential of the priesthood today. The issues raised by this new study concern the nature and health of the priesthood, a topic of most urgent concern at a time of clerical scandal and abuse. The conclusions of this book are extremely revealing but fundamentally positive for anyone concerned with the future of the Christian Church at the start of a new millennium.

Training for ministry
Theology and Priesthood
Relating to the laity
Celibacy and priesthood
Fallen priests
Sex and death
Rome and the Vatican
Ordination of Women
Emotional exhaustion
Depersonalition
A future in priesthood