deficient or even pathological ones) to those they visit. The kinds of answers that are typically given are chronicled in a later section of this book, but suffice it to say at this point that pastoral carers are not gurus, nor should they feel pressured into trying to fulfill such an inappropriate role. Rather, we seek to bring the presence and empathizing love of God, along with counsel and the resources of faith (Scripture, prayer, sacraments), to suffering people. That is what we have to offer.