What is Faith Community Nursing?
Faith Community Nursing (sometimes referred to as Parish Nursing) was developed by a Lutheran minister, Dr. Granger Westberg in the early 1980s. He recognized the church has promoted health and wholeness for centuries through worship, music, sharing and caring and that it is the only human institution in our society that interacts with individuals from birth through death. A Faith Community Nurse’s presence promotes whole person health, focuses on care of the mind, body and spirit. Faith Community Nursing is a nursing specialty with its own scope and standards of practice.
A Faith Community Nurse (FCN) is a registered nurse (RN) who has had educational preparation in wholistic ministry and provides health promotion programs and services within a faith community. The nurse assists individuals in gaining optimal mental, physical and spiritual health by complementing the ministry provided by the pastors and supplementing or collaborating with other existing ministries in the congregation. Below you will find more information about the FCN role.
- FCN as Integrator of Faith and Health
A key role of the Faith Community Nurse (FCN) is helping individuals connect their spiritual life with their physical and emotional well-being. At First Lutheran, our FCN supports members in recognizing how faith can bring comfort, strength, and healing during times of illness or stress. Whether offering a listening ear, prayer support, or resources for healthier living, the FCN encourages a holistic approach to health that honors both body and spirit. Such activities might include:
- Supporting individuals as they navigate health concerns through the lens of faith
- Emotional support during times of stress
- Presence of self and active listening
- Spiritual support when needed
- Prayer/specific scripture for specific needs
- Decision-making support when requested
- Working with current church groups i.e. hospital visits, home visits, prayer chains
- FCN as Advocate
The Faith Community Nurse serves as a compassionate advocate, helping individuals and families navigate health decisions and care systems. This might include, helping interpret medical information, or simply being a steady, supportive presence. The FCN listens, encourages, and helps ensure that members feel seen, heard, and cared for, especially during vulnerable times.
Such activities might include:
- Participating in congregational activities to support ministry focus areas
- Reporting signs of abuse and neglect issues to the appropriate social service agency
- Clarifying health care issues and creating safe spaces for thoughtful dialogue about end-of-life planning.
- FCN as Health Educator
The Faith Community Nurse serves as a reliable source of health information, offering education that supports physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. Through one-on-one conversations, group presentations, bulletin inserts, or health-focused events, the FCN provides guidance on topics such as chronic disease management, nutrition, mental health, and fall prevention. The goal is health promotion and education.
Such activities might include:
- Leading classes and or support groups regarding specific health issues
- Working with other ministries to promote health activities
- Helping to create a safe and healthy environment within the church
- FCN as Health Ministry Volunteer Coordinator
The Faith Community Nurse will help organize and coordinate volunteers who wish to serve others through health-related ministry and wellness initiatives. A congregational assessment will help us determine the needs in our congregation.
Such activities might include:
- Coordinating with current groups that provide friendly visits to members, transportation to appointments, meals during recovery, etc.
- Arranging for First Aid and AED training for staff and ushers
- Assisting with blood pressure screening
- Maintaining first aid kits
- FCN as Health Referral Agent
The Faith Community Nurse helps connect members to community resources—such as home care, counseling services, support organizations, or senior services. By being a bridge to local care and assistance, the FCN helps ensure that members are not alone in facing health challenges. The Faith Community Nurse can also guide individuals and families through the difficult conversations around end-of-life planning, with sensitivity and respect.
Such activities might include:
- Providing one on one support and resource information to individuals and families
- Providing resources and educational opportunities on end-of-life planning to individuals and families
- FCN as Organizer of Support Groups
The Faith Community Nurse may organize support groups that responds to the needs of our congregation—whether that’s a grief support group, caregivers’ circle, or a chronic illness discussion group. Groups will provide participants with encouragement, shared thoughts, prayers, and community support.
Such activities might include:
- Facilitating support groups as needed i.e. parenting skills, specific disease management, or grief support
- Looking Ahead: The Growing Ministry of the FCN
The Faith Community Nurse ministry is just beginning to take shape at First Lutheran. Over time, this role will evolve as the needs of the congregation become clearer. The Health and Wellness Committee invites you to engage with this ministry—ask questions, offer ideas, pray for its growth, and participate in a needs assessment.
Sunday 8:30am & 11:00am