The parish nurse is a registered nurse who has a personal relationship with God and who practices nursing within a specific congregation for the purpose of assisting church members in attaining optimal mental, physical, and spiritual well being. The parish nurse promotes healing in the context of wholeness and harmony, balance with God, self and others. Their primary role is to personify the church's interest in promoting health and healing. In order to accomplish this task, the nurse works with the ministerial staff on a part-time or full-time basis.

Where an active health ministry is already in place, the addition of a parish nurse may serve to create an effective team to enhance existing health services. Because churches are attempting to meet the needs of both their communities and their congregations, there is an increasing demand for parish nurses.

Parish nurses are the heart of the program. They are personable, professional, and work well with others. Together with the health committee, they design ways of responding to the health concerns of the congregation. Volunteer parish nurses often work before or after the worship services.

As an educator, they plan programs covering health care issues important to the congregation. As a pastoral minister, the parish nurse brings a sense of spirituality to physical care and is able to help others tap into this rich healing source. As a health counselor, they meet with congregation members about health concerns. As a volunteer recruiter, trainer and supporter, the parish nurse recruits and trains volunteers to visit the homebound and those in hospitals, as well as all types of volunteers who may be needed for the Parish Nurse ministry.

How to Reach Us

Walla Walla General Hospital - Parish Nurse Program
1025 South Second Avenue, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Phone: 509-525-1213 or e-mail us your request
 

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