Since the first preparation course held at Concordia College in 1991, the Parish Nurse Center has helped nearly 1,300 nurses complete the course. Many of these nurses serve as parish nurses in their home congregations in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Kansas, Montana and throughout the United States.
The center offers educational preparation programs at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn., Duluth, Minn, St. Paul/Minneapolis, Minn
Christ's ministry was always wholistic; Christ treated the "whole" person - physically, emotionally, spiritually. His was a healing ministry, and he urged his disciples to follow his example. The Scriptures are replete with references to abundant living as a proper and desirable goal. Congregations need to be supported in this goal.
Health care 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 15 years both the 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 to work with members of a congregation in many ways:
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Visit members in their homes or hospitals
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Counsel members on health-related issues
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Assist in obtaining needed health services
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Help members understand the relationship between body, mind and spirit
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Assist in adapting important lifestyle changes
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Teach classes on maintaining good health
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Provide health screenings
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Develop support groups within the church
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Coordinate congregational volunteers
Parish nurses are not expected to provide home healthcare nursing. When such care is needed, the parish nurse makes the appropriate referral.
