The first sentence in this book is “Healing is too important to be left solely to the medical profession” and it sums up the author’s argument throughout, that modern medicine does not address the total reality of human existence. What is important is the healing of the whole person, the emotional and spiritual wellbeing as well as the physical. Meyendorff (an Orthodox theologian) argues that the healing ministry of Christ is a primary task of the Church and he examines the ministry as it is expressed in Scripture and tradition, especially the rite of anointing of the sick. A large part of the book is taken up by a new translation of the rite as it is practised by the Orthodox Church. Meyendorff makes a forceful and compelling argument for all Christian churches to put the healing of the sick, body and soul, at the forefront of their ministry.