IINDIANAPOLIS – For many in the profession, nursing is a calling. And it’s a particularly special calling for those nurses who use their skills to blend good health with faith in communities throughout the state.Since 1996, a robust Parish Nursing program has flourished at St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers through the University of Indianapolis. Today, the hospital partners with more than 20 nurses at Christian-based churches in Indianapolis, Greenwood, Monrovia, Mooresville, Greenwood and other locations throughout south-central Indiana.
The nurses provide help in accessing and navigating the health-care system; coordinate programs and screenings at fairs to promote health and wellness; provide education on health-related topics and disease management.
Parish nurses also go on home, hospital and nursing home visits, often praying with their church family members and being a health advocate for the families.
In 2009, St. Francis parish nurses provided care or education programs to 52,000 people and donated more than 1,500 hours in community services at a benefit value of $51,000.
“Parish nurses, more recently referred to as faith community nurses, live the mission of St. Francis of Assisi,” said
Parish/Faith Community Nurse Jan Erlenbaugh Gaddis. “Each nurse assumes different duties within his or her congregation, based on the needs of the church and nearby community. The obvious benefit is nurturing a holistic approach to health with mind, body and spirit.”
The St. Francis Parish Nursing Program is among other similar programs throughout the state to be recognized by state leadership. Gov. Mitchell Daniels Jr. has issued a proclamation designating May 10-16 as Indiana Parish Nursing Week.
To learn more about the program at St. Francis go to www.stfrancishospitals.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=336#parish.
