"In times when we are not particularly suffering, we do not have enough time for God. We are too busy with other things. And then the intense suffering comes, and we can not be busy with other things. And then God comes into the equation."

"That old Lutheran concept of the priesthood of all believers—Stephen Ministry helps you live that out,” says Rev. David Sloop of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Watch more of correspondent Deborah Potter's interview with the pastor and clinical psychologist who founded Stephen Ministries in 1975.

The widespread crisis in Japan is marked by ongoing relief efforts and acknowledgment of the impermanence of life.

"Part of what's in a pilgrim's heart is this longing for more in life and the idea of being on a journey," says Randy Haycock, a chaplain at Walter Reed Army Medical Center who leads monthly pilgrimages to Washington National Cathedral for Walter Reed's Warrior Transition Brigade.

"Part of what's in a pilgrim's heart is this longing for more in life and the idea of being on a journey," says Randy Haycock, a chaplain at Walter Reed Army Medical Center who leads monthly pilgrimages to Washington National Cathedral for Walter Reed's Warrior Transition Brigade.

Those who feel lonely and sad at this time of year may also feel "that grief is permanent and hope is fleeting," says the University of Richmond's associate chaplain, Kate O'Dwyer-Randall, "but it’s actually the other way around."

In a new book about inspirational poet Mattie Stepanek, who died in 2004, his mother Jeni writes about his short life and lasting legacy.

More than five weeks later, America remains deeply shaken by the events of September 11th, no more so than in New York. Correspondent Betty Rollin spoke with four religious New Yorkers of different faiths to see how they were affected.

In the wake of the horrific terrorist attacks on September 11, we discuss questions about justice, forgiveness, and retribution with four religious leaders and scholars.