Who is Present in Absence?

What transpires when Classical Pentecostals pray for God to intervene within their suffering, but God does not? Traditionally, Classical Pentecostals center on encountering God as demonstrated through the relating of testimonies of their experiences with God. In seeking to contribute to a theology of suffering for Pentecostals, Pam Engelbert lifts up the stories of eight Classical Pentecostals to discover how they experienced God and others amidst their extended suffering even when God did not intervene as they had prayed. By valuing each story, this qualitative practical theology work embraces a Pentecostal hermeneutic of experience combined with Scripture, namely the Gospel of John. As a Pentecostal practical theological project it offers a praxis (theology of action) of suffering and healing during times when we experience the apparent absence of God. It invites the reader to enter into the space of the other’s suffering by way of empathy, and thereby participate in God’s act of ministry to humanity through God’s expression of empathy in the very person of Jesus. ''Pam is an excellent writer, but the fact that she has lived this book adds so much to its impact. I’m praying this book will stimulate others to come alongside those who are hurting and disillusioned; presence is what they need. This book illustrates that fact so well.''--Bob Cook, Associate Pastor, Victory Life Church, Fruita/Grand Junction, Colorado''Pam Englebert is my friend, but more importantly, she’s a friend of God . . . Our relationship was transparent and authentic, although I also experienced, in many of our worship services, Pam being used supernaturally. So, she’s down-to-earth real, yet she has seen the power of God. What a pleasing balance she brings as the author of this work! I am grateful for her.''--Douglas Green, Pastor, North Hills Church, Brea, California''Pam’s counsel is based on rigorous research and deep theological reflection. As you engage Pam’s story, and the stories of her courageous participants, you will also encounter your own story of presence and absence, of suffering and comfort. As a result, you will be richer, wiser, and more able to serve as a trustworthy companion to those who are suffering and wondering where God is in that experience.''--Carla Dahl, Professor of Congregational and Community Care Leadership, Luther Seminary''As a Pentecostal, I have had the privilege of watching as Pam developed her ''Pentecostal Theological Praxis of Suffering and Healing.'' She has a gift of bringing together the disciplines of theology, biblical studies, Pentecostal experiences and psychology in a very helpful way. She wrestles with the question we all wrestle with: Where is God in the midst of my suffering? She discusses the ’presence of God’ in what seems to be the ’absence of God.’ She concludes with a very helpful discussion of the importance of ''empathy.'' Every pastor--Pentecostal or not--will benefit from Pam’s scholarly work.''--John Gowins, Executive Director, Eagles Nest MinistriesPamela F. Engelbert is an ordained pastoral theologian and an adjunct professor at the Mongolian Bible Training Center. She is skilled in compassionate communication, which she teaches to various groups.