Parish Nurse Center
Since 1991, Concordia’s Parish Nurse Center has prepared nearly 1,500 to serve in faith communities across the country. As parish nurses, these professionals are called and committed to the healing ministry of the church, helping meet the emotional, physical and spiritual needs of the members. This ministry is grounded in the tradition of the church, “to preach the kingdom of God and to heal” (Luke 9:2).
Parish nurses can play a vital role in health care delivery. As healthcare has become increasingly segmented and complex, people often have difficulty sorting out and receiving the services they need. Many elderly people, especially, do not know where to turn. Fortunately, within the past 25 years both health professions and the church have recognized the need for a healthcare ministry, and a new concept was born – parish nursing.
Parish nurses are registered nurses prepared in wholistic ministry. They may use other titles such as: faith community nurse, health ministry nurse or health and wellness nurse.
Parish nurses work with members of faith communities in many ways:
• Visit members in homes or hospitals
• Counsel members on health-related issues
• Assist in obtaining needed health services
• Help members understand the relationship between body, mind and spirit
• Assist in adapting important lifestyle changes
• Promote wellness through education and activities
• Provide health screenings
• Develop support groups within the church
• Coordinate congregational volunteers
Concordia’s Parish Nurse Center provides education, consultation and support of the parish nurse ministry within faith communities. The center offers educational preparation programs at Concordia and throughout the region. Churches are encouraged to sponsor nurses and provide the program fee.
Program Requirements:
• Registered nurse with a current license
• Commitment to the wholistic concept of health care, including the spiritual dimension of healing and health
• Good communication skills
• Active involvement with a local faith community
• Commitment to completion of the entire basic parish nurse preparation program
Resources:
International Parish Nurse Resource Center
Eden Theological Seminary Bookstore
ELCA Parish Nurse Association
Parish Nurse Center
