Learning from Langland: theo-poetic resources for the post-Hind ...

the consumer so that purchasers and users of services know what to expect and are sure that
it will meet their needs.
Whilst acknowledging that much of this is useful and positive, Pattison identifies several
areas of concern, one of which is the way in which fellow providers become competitors
defending their market niche, and another to do with the way on which the identification of
observable skills and competencies to equip a person to perform a particular role is ‘clearly
value-laden and ideological. It requires some individuals to conform to the implicit values
of a hierarchically-constituted standards authority which will mould individuals according
to its own, immediately perceived needs and values.’ 47
As a counter to the shortcomings and dangers of a utilitarian model of human organisation,
Pattison offers some theological perceptions focussing on the mystery and uncontrollability
of creation; the status of others as brothers and sisters rather than clients; the need for
mistakes in a graced universe; and finally, the thought that ‘God is not a manager –
therefore there is hope!’ The alternative approach (in this instance, to pastoral care) which
Pattison offers, is what he calls ‘symbolisation’ – ‘helping people discover and explore
symbols that give space, hope and purpose.’ 48 Rather than trying to control and foreclose
the world with aims and objectives, he seeks a way of opening up meaning in a way which
enables people to experience life as a whole rather than the world as fragmented. He
concludes:
It would be a mistake for this particular Christian activity [pastoral care] to try to
resolve or decode its central generative symbols into programmes of universal
47 Ibid., p. 137.
48 Ibid., p. 144.
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