Wholistic Care / Parish Nurse Ministry

Parish Nursing

Community of the Cross Lutheran Church helps to meet the emotional, physical, and spiritual needs of our congregation and community through a Parish Nurse Program called the Wholistic Community Care Ministry.

  • Reclaiming an old tradition of the church, to go out and preach the kingdom of God and to heal. (Luke 9:2)
  • Recognizing that the mission of the church community is to proclaim God’s desire that we achieve abundant life.
  • Reaffirming and supporting the journey toward wholeness in the relationship of body, mind, and spirit.

What is Parish Nursing?
Parish Nursing is an intentional melding of nursing and ministry. The parish nurse ministers to individuals and families, using health education and spiritual maturity to promote wellness of body, mind, and spirit. This ministry is lived in and through a faith community.

Who is a Parish Nurse?
A Parish Nurse is a registered nurse, currently licensed, who is committed to the healing mission of the church.

When and Where is a Parish Nurse Available?
A parish nurse is often available on Sunday mornings and also for home visits or appointment.

What is the Role of the Parish Nurse?
Integrator of Faith and Health
Brings together aspects of faith and health, and how they relate and impact one another.

Health Educator
Seeks to promote an understanding of the relationship between lifestyle, attitudes, faith and well-being.

Personal Health Counselor
Discusses health problems with parishioners and makes home, hospital and nursing home visits as needed.

Trainer of Volunteers
Recruits and coordinates volunteers for the health and caring ministries of the church.

Developer of Support Groups
Develops and coordinates support groups to meet the needs of individuals in the congregation and community.

Referral Agent
Refers to community and congregational resources and services.

Health Advocate
Advocates for individuals, who are without a support system, for the resources or services they need.

What are Examples of Parish Nurse Ministry?

  • Offering support to an individual who is grieving.
  • Providing monthly blood pressure checks and other health screenings.
  • Sharing information on support groups at Community of the Cross and in the community.
  • Referring a family member or a homebound person to senior services offered in the area.
  • Offering presence and prayer during times of crisis and celebration.
  • Delivering a Care Basket to a person with chronic illness or long term recovery.
  • Encouraging individuals toward healthy living through exercise, good nutrition, and spiritual disciplines.

Community of the Cross Parish Nurses are:

Lois Larson, RN
Chair -Wholistic Community Care Ministry

For consultations, referrals or appointments with a Parish Nurse, call the church office at 952-941-1247 or email parishnurse@cclcmn.org