Christian communities are a lot like families, so it’s only natural for individuals to show their love and concern by visiting fellow parishioners who are sick in the hospital. But without a bit of information, a well-intentioned visit might bring more harm than good.

In this handy pocket-sized book, Neville Kirkwood, a chaplain with many years’ experience, offers practical guidelines to make a hospital visit an experience that strengthens the bonds of friendship while nurturing the patient’s spiritual health. Included are tips on respecting the patient’s needs and moods, communicating effectively, following hospital protocol, and praying for—and with—those who are confined to the hospital.