This book studies the trials and tribulations of eight Danish post-Reformation pastors and their parishioners, thereby shedding new light on the development of the complex roles performed by Lutheran pastors c. 1550–1750. By virtue of their position, pastors were key figures in the religious, social, and cultural life of early modern society. However, exactly what the duties of a Lutheran pastor implied, and how they should or could be best performed, was often up to the individual pastor to decide. The book demonstrates that there could be striking variations from parish to parish and that significant changes took place over time.