What is Parish Nursing?

Parish Nursing is an intentional ministry of health within a church congregation that cares for people of all ages and is rooted in the vision of Jesus Christ as Saviour, Lord, and Healer.
Parish Nursing emphasizes:
– promotion of holistic health, the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit
– prevention of illness
– collaboration with other caring ministries in the church

What does a Parish Nurse do?

H- Health Counselor
– Counsels people on health related issues
– Listens and offers support
– Visits people at home, in hospital or care centre
E- Educator
– Assists with lifestyle changes and health promotion incentive
– Leads health education classes
– Provides health screening as appropriate
– Provides health education materials
– Promotes awareness and addresses public health issues and safety on church property
A- Advocate/Resource Person
– Assists people in understanding medical conditions
– Empowers people to make good health care decisions
– Develops support connections between people or support groups
L- Leader/Facilitator of Groups and Volunteers
– Collaborates with Health and Wellness committee members to assess congregational health needs
– Coordinates and affirms volunteers to show Christ’s love in service to others
T- Theological Reflection
– Integrates faith and health issues, with spiritual care central to care given
– Uses prayer and scripture for therapeutic support
– Supports church services and events from faith and health perspectives
– Collaborates with pastor of congregational care
H- Helper/Liaison to the community
– Assists in obtaining needed health services
– Offers knowledge about community resources