What is a Parish Nurse Ministry?

When Christianity began, the Church was a major influence in people's live, taking care of all their spiritual, emotional and physical needs.  Over the centuries, a division occurred.  A person's physical care became the responsibility of the medical community and their spiritual care was handled by the Church.

In recent years there has been increasing awareness of the interrelationship between a person's physical, mental and spiritual well-being, encompassed in the concept of "Whole Person Health".

Having a qualified, registered nurse as the Parish Nurse Coordinator can enhance the Church's efforts to integrate Whole Person Health into its congregation. The nurse, trained in science and humanities, as well as community nursing, social psychology and pastoral care, can assist those in need of healing and can advocate for the parishioners, especially in the area of health and wellness.

About the Valley Parish Nurse Program

The Valley Parish Nurse Program (VPN) is a community-based organization which uses a holistic approach to promote health and healing.

Parish Nurses serve as coordinators between the clergy, the parish and resources in the community, such as hospitals and other social service agencies. Through education, counseling, visitation, health screenings, referrals and advocacy, the parish nurse assists members of the parish community in leading healthy and happy lives.

Modeled after a program developed in 1983 by Dr. Granger Westberg in Illinois, similar and successful programs currently operate across the United States.  The VPN Program was established in 1989 after extensive research and planning between Griffin Hospital in Derby, Catholic Family Services in Ansonia and several area religious congregations.  It is presently the longest, consecutively running Parish Nurse Program in the world!!!

The Role of a Parish Nurse

• Health Educator: Using health screenings, discussion groups, classes and other events to help the congregation recognize the interrelationship of mind, body and spirit
• Health Counselor: Being available for personal consultations along with home, hospital and nursing home visits
• Facilitator/Organizer: Recruiting and coordinating volunteers and support groups within the congregation
• Referral Source: Acting as a liaison to community and religious resources and services

When and Where Does a Parish Nurse Work?

The Parish Nurse works on a part-time basis on a schedule that is convenient for the nurse and parish.  A space can be designated where the parish nurse regularly works and meets with individuals to discuss their health needs confidentially.  An area in the church is typically designated to provide parishioners with resources that are easily accessible.

Qualifications of a Parish Nurse

• Registered Nurse currently licensed in the State of Connecticut
• Minimum of three years nursing experience
• Knowledge of the sacramental and spiritual life of the Church
• Experience in teaching and health counseling
• Knowledge and practice of holistic health philosophy
• Ability to work with highly diverse types of individuals and groups
• Sincere, outgoing and empathetic
• Self-motivated, requiring little or no supervision