To learn more about this exciting partnership between our hospitals and churches of all faiths, please e-mail us with your questions or comments. Or you can contact us by phone at 916-781-4691.
What It's All About
The concept behind faith community nursing, also known as parish nursing, is simple: to get church members involved in ministering to the physical, mental and spiritual needs of others. Our parish nurses work in partnership with local churches to improve and manage congregational health. In this capacity they provide health education and counseling, facilitate support groups and train volunteers. The intent of the program is not to replace doctor visits, but rather to encourage preventive care and refer church members to appropriate health resources as needed.
Each church has its own unique way of implementing the program. Because needs differ from one community to the next, parish nurses provide health education and spiritual support to a variety of people—from gang members to schoolchildren.
Parish Nurses Reaching Out
Across Adventist Health, our parish nurses are busy ministering to their churches and communities. In Portland, OR, parish nurses recently banded together to host a "block party" in a low-income neighborhood. They distributed much-needed school clothes and explained how to access community health services.
In Walla Walla, WA, parish nurses participate in "Community Days" by setting up a booth in the local mall. During the event, they provide free health education and encourage individuals to sign-up for "File of Life," a magnetic envelope that contains vital medical information and hangs on the refrigerator. These files have saved many lives by providing quick medical references to paramedics.
More About the Program
There are many way in which this program can be implemented in a church congregation. To schedule a training session contact Teresa Nelson, parish nursing coordinator, at 916-781-4691. To find out more, see documents below.
Faith Community Nursing brochure (161kb)
Training Manual (1.6mb)
Church Leadership Resource Manual (250kb)
