What is a Parish Nurse?
We are committed to the healing mission of the church. Parish Nurses are registered professional nurses who have answered a call from God to be advocates of physical, emotional and spiritual wellness within the church. A parish nurse has obtained additional training that prepares them to provide holistic health care. Their focus is on wellness, and disease prevention rather than hands-on physical care. Parish nurses do no duplicate or compete with existing service providers. They work collaboratively with community services and resources to enhance health care delivery.
First Baptist Church recognizes the relationship among
physical, emotional and spiritual wellness.
Parish nursing reflects this relationship and helps the church fulfill its mission of meeting the needs of its community in the spirit of Christian concern. A parish nurse is the visible symbol of the congregations healing and health ministry.
What does a Parish Nurse do?
The role of a parish nurse is dependent on the needs of the church. They promote the healing ministries of the church and a sense of community by serving as:
- Health Counselor: The parish nurse meets with church members to discuss and listen to concerns that are troublesome whether physical, relational or personal (spiritual).
- Health Resource Person: The parish nurse serves as a referral to other health and social agencies in the community and supplies information to promote healing and wellness.