Welcome
Abstract
<p>Welcome to this special introductory volume of Psychology of Religion and Spirituality . Division 36 (Psychology of Religion) of the American Psychological Association and the American Psychological Association's (APA) Journals Program have joined together to launch this journal.</p> <p> Psychology of Religion and Spirituality (PRS) represents an important development for both APA and Division 36. For the Division, this new journal represents an important historic moment, a “coming of age.” Starting as a loosely organized association of professionals interested in religious issues, we have now become a mature organization that has forged clear professional interests and goals. Members of the division have been pioneers in developing rigorous scientific methods for the study of religious and spiritual issues and in establishing both guidelines and techniques for applying religious or spiritual material in clinical practice.</p> <p>Building on this legacy, PRS aspires to become an active, rigorous, and open forum for the advancement of psychology of religion and spirituality. The articles published will offer a critical and unbiased examination of spiritual and religious variables and constructs and their potential value for understanding and treating individuals and promoting health and well-being.</p> <p>For APA, this new journal reflects the association's commitment to promoting