Parish Nurse

What is a Parish Nurse?

In conjunction with our commitment to be with the sick, poor, the alienated, the suffering, and the dying, Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church began its Parish Nurse Program on March 1, 2004.  A parish nurse facilitates the healing mission of our congregation by serving in the following roles:
  • Integrator of Faith and Health - Seeks to identify more deeply the connection between one's faith and health.
  • Health Educator - Promotes an atmosphere where individuals of all ages, through a variety of educational activities, explore the relationship between values, attitudes, lifestyle, faith and health.
  • Personal Health Counselor - Discusses health issues and problems with individuals; makes home, hospital, and nursing home visits as needed.
  • Referral Agent and Liaison with Congregational and Community Resources - Provides referrals to other congregational resources as well as those found in the community at large.
  • Facilitator of Volunteers - Developer of Support Groups. Assesses the needs/concerns of the congregation and facilitates the development of small groups that offer support and education.
  • Health Advocate - The Parish Nurse works with the parishioner, faith community and primary health resources to provide what is in the best interest of the parishioner from a whole person perspective, listening and supporting the parishioner's voice when he/she has difficulty navigating the healthcare system.

The following are just some examples of a parish nurse's activities.
  • Offers presence and prayer during times of crisis and celebration.
  • Encourages individuals toward healthy living through exercise, good nutrition, and spiritual disciplines.
  • Assists Pastors with home, hospital, assisted living, and nursing home visitation as requested.
  • Provides referrals to people for various community resources, such as older adult programs, depression recovery, and Alcoholics Anonymous.
  • Offers support to individuals who are grieving.
  • Coordinates presentations such as stress management, advance directives, various health screenings.

“Do not Fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire, you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. Fear not, for I am with you.” -- Isaiah 43: 1-2

Winter Weather Concerns

With winter in full swing now, sometimes travel to and from church can be hazardous. Please read our winter advisory for all members of Our Redeemer's.

Resources

Emergency preparation is an important part of life. The Countryside Public Health offers this list of emergency preparedness tips.

Sometimes it can be tricky to tell whether the sniffles you are having are from a common cold or the first signs of a serious flu. Here are some tips to tell the difference between the two and how to treat them to get back on your feet as soon as possible.

Minutes from the latest Health Ministry Team meeting on December 5 can be read here.

Faithfully Fit Forever

An exercise and fellowship group for community residents of all ages. Everybody can feel free to exercise at their own ability level.

This program is especially helpful for those with arthritis, high blood pressure, weight, balance and other related health issues.  A great way to start the day! 

Click here to learn more!

Volunteering

Our Parish Nurse can always use more volunteers! Please consider volunteering in one or more of the following ways:
  • Volunteer driving
  • Provide meals for families
  • Knit prayer shawls
  • Prayer Group
  • Serve on the Health Ministry Team
  • Provide care giving respite
  • Grace Partners
Contact the church office to volunteer.