Welcome to the website of the Evangelical Lutheran Parish Nurse Association! We seek to be the light of Christ as we integrate faith and health in the ministry of parish nursing. Here you will find basic information about parish nursing as well as updates on our progress and activities. May God bless you with peace and joy for the day!
Dear Friends,
I write this welcome message as we are about to turn the page of the calendar and begin a new year. A year that I’m sure will be filled with challenges and blessings, both personally and professionally.
As mentioned above, the ELPNA is a peer group that seeks to support Faith Community Nurses in Lutheran congregations, regardless of denominational affiliation. We have much in common and a few things that divide us, but we stand together in helping people stay well, being with them in life crises and transitions, and helping them integrate faith and health. We do that in our individual ministries, but we also do that organizationally as we have had a presence at several national church-wide events where we host care-stations for the attendees. This is a way to be present to those attending the meetings, but also provides opportunities to give exposure and credibility to Faith Community Nursing as a vital part of ministry.
We are in many ways, a fledgling organization, trying to put in place a strong foundation of support and service to parish nurses. If you are not a member, we would welcome your involvement and leadership in this effort. If you are a member, please make your voice heard as we mature the work we are about.
You will see on this website many of the activities that happen at the national and regional level. There are nine regions in the ELCA, several that are huge geographically, but all doing important work in congregations across the nation. We would welcome hearing what you are doing in your faith community. One of our major goals for 2014 is to find ways to better communicate with and engage the membership in our work, in spite of geographic challenges.
From the beginning of my work with Faith Community Nursing ministries, I have used verses from John 10 to guide my personal ministry and my work. The work we are about is helping people find and enjoy abundant life – always in spite of personal challenges, chronic health issues and/or as part of end of life journeys. Our presence and our impact are profound. Indeed we stand on holy ground and make significant differences in people’s lives and faith journeys.
Together, let us forge forward, continuing to evolve this organization that supports Faith Communities and their Faith Community Nurses. Together we help those we serve find and enjoy abundant life in Christ, our Savior.
Carol DeSchepper, Chair
Lori Tormey and June Sand, Co-Vice Chairs
Andy West, Secretary
Nancy Deetz, Treasurer