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