Parish Nursing At Community in Christ What the Parish Nurse and Health Ministry Team has to offer you. Penny Zimmerman RN, MSN January 19, 2011

What is “Health”?

Mainstream society’s definition of health: an absence of disease. “Absence of disease” is a narrow concept. Fosters an “illness” and “treatment” mentality. Very disjointed. Not well integrated. Does not assume that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

Christian Perspective of Health All health and wholeness is rooted in God. The Bible “provides us with an understanding of God’s love and healing activity as well as a paradigm for health and wholeness of the community.” Scriptural Basis “I am the Lord that heals you.” Exodus 15:26 “For I will restore you to health, and I will heal your wounds, says the Lord.” Jeremiah 30:17 “I have come that they might have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10 Ulrich, S. (2010). Health ministry in the local congregation. Retreived 1/4/11 at 10_3.pdf 10_3.pdf

Christian Perspective of Health “Jesus shared His power of healing with the disciples as he sent them into the world equipping them to witness to the kingdom of god by word and act (deed). The gift of healing is not given to build up one’s self, but to enable a right relationship to occur between the individual and (God).” Ulrich, S. (2010). Health ministry in the local congregation. Retreived 1/4/11 at 10_3.pdf 10_3.pdf The Great Commission - Matthew 28:18-20

Christian Perspective of Health People are integrated wholes: spiritual, physical, intellectual, emotional, and social beings. Key concept of holistic health: acknowledgement of our interconnectedness to all aspects of ourselves and of life (our relationship with God, others, and creation).

Christian Perspective of Health Historically, the church was the authority on health and healing. However, as science advanced, the church’s role faltered despite the similar goals of medicine and the church. An interest in reclaiming Christ’s full ministry of healing and health resurged in the late 20th century. Rev. Dr. Granger Westburg - the “Father” of Parish Nursing and Health Ministry

Parish Nursing A parish nurse is a Registered Nurse who works in a faith community to address health issues of its members and of the broader community. A conscious partnering of HEALTH and FAITH of the individual. An intentional combining of ancient traditions of the Christian community and the knowledge and tools of modern medicine. A parish nurse seeks to foster physical, emotional, spiritual, and social wholeness leading to healthy, healing, and whole relationships with God, people, and creation.

Role of Parish Nurse H: Health advisor E: Educator on health issues A: Advocate or resource person L: Liaison to faith and community resources T: Teacher of volunteers and developer of services H: Healer of body, mind, spirit, and community Canadian Association for Parish Nursing Ministry, C: Consultant A: Advocate R: Resource E: Educator S: Support OR

Parish Nursing at Community in Christ Health Ministry Team Parish Nurses Penny Zimmerman Sue Papazian Health Promoters (non-medical lay members) Pastors Volunteers Church Members

Health Ministry at CIC Purpose: To intentionally and consciously integrate the health and faith of our community so that individuals of our community can realize abundant life. Mission: To nurture the physical, mental, and spiritual health of our faith community, fostering wholeness with Christ as one’s central force, through prayer, counsel, education, and referral. “I have come that they might have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10

Functions of the Health Ministry Team Prayer for health and spiritual needs of community. Confidential counseling on illnesses, treatment plans, medications, recovery, wound care, community health resources, home care equipment. medication reviews blood pressure measurements Collaboration with existing CIC ministries to coordinate home and hospital visits for members.

Functions of the Health Ministry Team Classes, programs, or support groups regarding health issues including teaching CPR, blood drives, health fairs, etc. Assisting families with end of life care by providing advice, support, and guidance. Providing resources to community services. Assistance in communication with healthcare professionals.

A Parish Nurse is NOT A physician. You will not receive a medical diagnosis or treatment. A home health nurse or specialty therapist. You will not receive injections, therapy, or wound care. A pastor. We are not trained clergy, but do come with a deep spiritual commitment. Parish nurses do not duplicate services, rather supplement existing health treatment plans. Parish nurses do not replace current church ministries, rather supplement and complement existing ministries.

When Might You Call on the Parish Nurse? When you are facing surgery or have started a new medication. When you are having difficulty dealing with a new or complex diagnosis. When you need help communicating with your health care provider. When you decide to make lifestyle changes and need resources and encouragement. When you are caring for a loved one at home and need support.

When Might You Call on the Parish Nurse? When a family member has a chronic disease and you are looking for information and community resources to help you. When you have concerns about a family member and are not sure if they need a health referral. When you have an idea for an educational program that the church may benefit from.

Upcoming Events Our new office. Posted office hours and available appointment times. Monthly focus bulletin. Monthly newsletter focus on health. Additional information and resources on CIC’s website. Upcoming congregational health needs assessment. Resources library.

Thank you! “‘For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me’... And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.’” Matthew 25: 35-36, 40