Spirituality and data: the need for a new paradigm

My ministry has meaning for me, and I trust, for others whom I serve. In times past, that meaning was sufficient testimony regarding its significance. Today, however, more scientific evidence seems needed--although I resist it and am skeptical that in the end science can really help us. Yet, the task we face, the central question facing the profession is, "Are there true, definable outcomes that can be validated when our primary task is dealing with matters of the heart and soul?"