"By placing culture at the heart of practical theology, Pete Ward opens up new ways of thinking about the ways in which divine presence, theology and cultural life are deeply inter-twined. This is conceptually-rich work that will be invaluable for people wanting to make meaningful connections between their understanding of God and their cultural practices in different ministerial and every-day life settings. Participation and Mediation creates new possibilties for how people do practical theology and deserves to be widely read." Gordon Lynch, Professor of Sociology of Religion, Birkbeck, University of London "With appreciation for youth perspectives and cultural theorists, Pete Ward powerfully conveys the challenges facing Christians and churches today. He offers an alternative to conventional views, calling us beyond present structures into greater engagement with cultural realities. His is a thoroughly practical theological vision, at once demanding and encouraging." James Nieman,...