By Sr. Mary Lou Stubbs, DC
Parish Partnership Coordinator: Catholic Charities
 
“He cured many who were sick with various diseases, and he drove out many demons...” (Gospel of Mark, Chapter 1) 

Mark’s gospel speaks clearly and plainly of the day to day ministries of Jesus. As He preached the good news, Jesus frequently stopped to help those in physical and emotional distress. His ministry of providing for improved health for those who turned to Him is the foundation of parish-based health ministries, including a movement called Parish Nursing.

In past centuries, churches often provided hospitality to the sick and were the first phase of modern hospitals. In our time, hospitality has given way to a hospital-based system which cares for the acutely or seriously ill, but does not reach into our local communities to monitor and support health related issues. As Church, we have the opportunity to re-establish an active link between people and wellness in our parishes through church-based health ministries.

Studies have shown that about 70% of our well-being is secondary to lifestyle and community conditions. As we strive to live the Gospel in all aspects of our lives, particularly as detailed in Matthew 25:40, concern for the wellbeing of our neighbor is an important aspect of that Gospel-based life.  A parish nurse program can assist with that mandate as they inform, advocate, organize, and encourage health related activities for the parish and as they refer or facilitate access to medical and other community resources.

Several pastors throughout the Diocese of Ogdensburg have approached Catholic Charities and requested assistance with developing such health ministries within their parishes. They’ve seen the needs of individuals with chronic diseases, have listened to the concerns of those who don’t know where to turn for advice about their health, have witnessed life-styles harmful to health, and have sought a way to respond.

At Catholic Charities, We have contacted a resource for parishes interested in exploring or developing parish health ministries: Mercy Care of the Adirondacks. The result is a collaboration that is making a professionally taught course for Parish Nursing accessible to parishes across the diocese. 

Although every parish has unique aspects to the ministries it develops, this course will provide basic preparation for health and wellness activities. Catholic Charities is pleased that its Parish Partnership Program is able to assist parishes access this first step toward parish-based health ministries.

If your parish has or is planning a health ministry With parishioners  interested in attending the Parish Nurse course which begins in March, contact Sister Catherine Cummings at ccummings@adkmercy.org.

If your parish would like to learn more about how parish-based health ministries can be an effective part of your parish menu of ministries, contact Sr. Mary Lou at ccstubbs@wadhams.edu .