The congregational nurse can have several roles, with the main one being that of Integrator of Faith and Health within the congregation. The congregational nurse helps the faith community re-identify, re-interpret, re-discover and re-claim its historic role in health and wholeness.
Health Educator
As a health educator, the congregational nurse seeks to raise the health awareness of the congregation and to foster an understanding of the relationship between lifestyle, personal habits, attitudes, faith and well-being.
This can be accomplished through the following activities:
- Blood pressure screenings
- Newsletter articles
- Educational materials
- Bulletin boards
- Classes and seminars
- Support groups
Volunteer Coordinator
By recruiting members of the congregation, the congregational nurse coordinates a team of volunteers to advocate for health ministry and to assist with programs and activities.
Health Advisor
While not replacing a primary health provider, the congregational nurse is available to discuss personal health problems and to recommend medical intervention when necessary. An individual may take comfort knowing a congregational nurse is a person of faith who can listen and pray, as well as understand the medical aspects of the situation.
Referral Source and Liaison with Community Resources
The congregational nurse draws on health-related resources from families, the congregation and the community. The WellStar congregational nurse serves as a community liaison and referral resource.
Colleague Support
WellStar congregational nurses meet regularly for education, fellowship and sharing of ideas. Programs are presented that would also be available for the nurses to use at their places of worship.