This reader brings together for the first time seminal articles concerned with the empirical and psychological study of prayer. The topics discussed include the relationship between prayer and psychological development; the place of prayer in the lives of adolescents; prayer and personality; the place of prayer in the work of doctors, caregivers, and clergy; the effect of prayer on health, coping, and quality of life; the role of prayer in therapy; and the evidence for the effects of intercessory prayer.

According to two studies reported by Dr. Randolph C. Byrd and by Dr. William S. Harris, intercessory prayer has a positive influence on the outcome for patience in a coronary care unit.

The international field of contributors include: Professor Laurence B. Brown, Professor Christopher G. Ellison, Dr. Ralph W. Hood Jr., Professor Jacques Janssen, Dr. Harold G. Koenig, Dr. Jeffrey S. Levin, Professor H. Newton Malony, Professor Margaret M. Poloma, and Professor Bernard Spilka.

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