This essay discusses the need to define the relations between psychology and the church as more than the consultation over pastoral counseling cases. A paradigm for understanding these relationships is proposed. Definitions are given for the church and for psychology. The church is seen as a place, a plan, a program and a people. Psychology is defined as the attempt to understand, explain and influence behavior. Psychology can relate to the church by collaborating or consulting on any one of the several facets of church life. The implications of the model are suggested. Thus psychology is seen to be able to assist the church in enhancing its ministry and fulfilling its ministry.
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