Second Baptist Church of Rutherfordton
Monday, September 06, 2010

Parish Nursing Program

“I am come that they might have life and that they might have it more abundantly.”  John 10:10
 
 
     There have been marked changes in the types of diseases faced by our nation.  Thanks to modern medicine, gone are many of the diseases feared by our forefathers – cholera, TB, polio.  Today there are diseases that are affected by our lifestyle:  heart disease, cancer, and depression.  Rather than new drugs, lifestyle changes may be the key to a healthier life.  The Parish Nurse provides education and offers support to the congregation to help them make these changes.
     The Parish Nurse Program of Rutherford Hospital, Inc. has worked with churches in the community for over two years.  Second Baptist Church has been invited to participate in this program.  As a participating church, we will assess the health needs and interests of our church and with Rutherford Hospital, we will plan educational opportunities and heath screenings appropriate for our congregation.
 
 
The Parish Nurse…
 
  • Is a qualified health care worker in a place people frequent and trust – their church.
  • Works with the needs of all age groups:  newborns, children, teens, adults and seniors.
  • Identifies concerns before they become a problem.
  • Through health education and screenings, encourages health promotion and disease prevention.
  • Encourages persons to recognize the impact of spiritual well being on their over-all health.
  • Encourages the congregation to be good stewards of the gift of life.
 
Rolls of the Parish Nurse…
 
  • Health Educator:  Promotes an understanding of the relationship between health and lifestyle.  Plans classes and programs based on the needs of the congregation.
  • Health Counselor:  Discusses health concerns with congregation members.  Supports individuals in lifestyle changes while emphasizing the relationship of reducing risk factors and reducing illnesses.
  • Referral Source:  Acts as a liaison between a variety of community resources, services, physicians and congregation.
  • Facilitator:  Trains and supports volunteers and committees within the congregation to take charge of their health and wellness.
     
    Now ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?  If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy, for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.” 
    1 Corinthians 3:16-17.

     
The Parish Nurse’s office is open on Sunday mornings at 9:20 am and is located in room 207.