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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.
The 1988 General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
called churches to be congregations that encourage and promote
health and wholeness. The Office of National Health Ministries
currently serves as resource to presbyteries and synods as
they help congregations to respond to the call. Education,
consultation, and referral is available.
Churches struggle in ministry in many areas in which the parish
nurse can open new opportunities. For example, developing ministry
to and with families affected by mental illness, health concerns
of elderly people, and nurturing young families are ways in
which the church is called upon to minister to its parishioners
in new ways.
Substance abuse, addictions, and violence within the family
are areas in which the parish nurse can be an initial contact
point in ministry to develop or strengthen education programs.
There are a variety of models in which churches are able to
obtain registered nurses to be on the church staff, such as:
- Congregation as sponsor
- Hospital sponsor
- Community agency as sponsor
- Joint sponsorship
- Volunteer
Larger churches have employed the parish nurse full time,
while smaller congregations typically join in sharing a nurse
as a part time staff.
Each of these models offers a different set of advantages to
the church. Some will provide strength by creating alliances
in the community or with other churches. Others offer a strong
support system for the parish nurse and clergy. One model will
work will in your church. |
