Deliverance Ministry

‘Cook and Richards’s timely, wise and sensitive book sets out, clearly and accessibly, a rationale for deliverance ministry and good practice advice. The Lord’s Prayer line ‘Deliver us from evil’ is given shape for the twenty-first century, drawing on all the wisdom of theology, pastoral practice and social sciences. An important read for those with any pastoral ministry.’ – The Revd Preb Dr Isabelle Hamley, Principal of Ridley Hall, Cambridge
‘For the perennial questions and debates on the various natures of evil and dealing with its afflictions, the authors bring an abundance of information, knowledge and experience by thorough historical research and examples of understanding and safest practice. Differing theologies - ancient and modern - and diverse spiritual beliefs and practices are covered critically, while complex entanglements between psychological and spiritual experience are well described. There are helpful chapters on mental health, possession states, cults and paranormal phenomena, psychic disturbances of people and places, and forms of deliverance. Deliverance ministry is grounded firmly in the divine cosmic mission of healing and salvation that calls for integrated collaborative working between religious and healthcare bodies. This richly informative book will be a valuable resource for trained professionals and should appeal to an interested wider readership.’ – Dr David McDonald MB MRCPsych MA MSc, Consultant Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist
‘The ministry of deliverance is a complex and controversial part of the Church’s ministry and, following recent developments in safeguarding, an up-to-date guide is much needed and to be welcomed. The authors write from personal experience and present a multi-disciplinary approach, drawing on theological and psychiatric insights. This is a book that should be read and retained as a resource by all who are involved in pastoral care today.’ – The Rt Revd Dominic Walker, Oratory of the Good Shepherd

About the Authors

Christopher C. H. Cook is Emeritus Professor in Spirituality, Theology & Health at Durham University. He is the past chair of the Spirituality & Psychiatry Special Interest Group at the Royal College of Psychiatrists and Honorary Chaplain for Tees, Esk & Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust.

In recognition of his work, he was awarded the Canterbury Cross by the Archbishop of Canterbury in 2020 and the Oskar Pfister Award by the American Psychiatric Association in 2021. His published works include Hearing Voices, Demonic & Divine (2019) and, with Isabelle Hamley & John Swinton, Struggling with God (2023).

Dr Anne Richards is National Public Policy Adviser (modern society, popular culture, contemporary spirituality, apologetics) in the Faith and Public Life department, based at Lambeth Palace. She also serves as the Church of England’s national officer for deliverance ministry.

Dr Richards is the convener of the ecumenical Mission Theology and Apologetics Group, which provides resources on Spirituality, Theology, Reconciliation, Evangelism, and Mission. She was shortlisted for the Michael Ramsay Prize in 2016 for Children in the Bible. A prolific writer and speaker, she holds the St Alphege Medal for Evangelism and Witness, awarded by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

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