Parish nursing is an idea born out of the
understanding of the healing ministry of
the church and the need to return to health
care that focuses on the whole person to
emphasize wellness, disease prevention,
and health promotion.
A parish nurse is a registered nurse with
additional training who serves members of
the congregation and often people in the
community as well. The role of a parish nurse
is not primarily to deal with sickness but more
significantly to be:
*a health educator and teacher to promote
healthy lifestyles and help people understand
the relationship between lifestyle, faith and
well being
*a personal health counselor to help people sort
out health problems and make appropriate plans
for handling them
*a communication link and support for community
health resources and services, to provide referrals
and be a liaison for the church and its members
*a teacher of volunteers to recruit members and
train them to carry out a range of supportive services
*an organizer of health support groups to assist
groups in the congregation with particular concerns
*a resource to assist with the assessment of
congregational and community health needs.
The parish nurse program affirms the church
as a place for prevention of illness or “disease,” as
it teaches and supports us in living with ease
physically, spiritually, emotionally and socially.
(Taken from the National Health Ministries)
The Church of St. Mary is pleased to announce
the hiring of a parish nurse. Currently this is a
part time position with plans for expansion.
The program is currently in the developing stages
which allows for new ideas and opportunities for
the people of our faith community.
To contact the parish nurse, please call the Church of St. Mary office at 235-0118, ext. 104.