Joe Stewart-Sicking is an Episcopal priest and Associate Professor of Pastoral Counseling at Loyala University Maryland, where he directs the PhD program. His research explores the impact of modernity and postmodernity on spiritual formation, the emotional health and vocational satisfaction of clergy, and the relationship between spiritual direction and psychology. He was the associate project director for the Project of Congregations of Intentional Practice at Virginia Theological Seminary, directed by Diana Butler Bass. He co-edited with her From Nomads to Pilgrims: Stories from Practicing Congregations and wrote the study guide for Christianity for the Rest of Us. He lives in Baltimore, Maryland.

“Spiritual Friendship After Religion is less of a directive ‘how to’ book and more of a practical ‘what if’ one. What if we treated all our friendships as the opportunity for the Spirit to show up? What if we encouraged people in our congregations to consider their communal vocation as spiritual companions? What if people of faith took on the task of befriending the postmodern world?”—Diana Butler Bass, author of Grounded: Finding God in the World—A Spiritual Revolution

"In today's fluid society, spiritual improvisation is as important as contemplation for those who serve as companions to others on a spiritual path. Joseph Stewart-Sicking serves as an interpretive guide for anyone negotiating the unfamiliar terrain of a post-religious world."—Eric Elnes, author of Gifts of the Dark Wood: Seven Blessings for Soulful Skeptics (and Other Wanderers)