Parish and Outreach Nursing
Cast all your worries on him because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:7
Registered Nurses currently serve in churches, schools and outreach centers in an interdenominational collaborative effort to encourage and support ministries of both health and healing.
Our Nurses appreciate that all persons are sacred and must be treated with respect and dignity as they advocate with compassion and mercy. Our nurses specialize in spiritual and physical health and wholeness. They practice in the safe, familiar and comfortable environment of the church or school community. They serve as champions for health education and counseling. Nurses guide and support the patient as they travel through the health care system serving as health educators, health counselors, referral advisors and integrators of faith and healing.
Health problems related to high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, obesity and tobacco use are becoming more common. Parish nurses can aid in early detection and prevention as the best method to decrease the consequences of these events. Nurses working in the various program ministries will see over 14,000 patients annually.
What is a Parish Nurse? Is there a cost to see a nurse?
Parish Nursing is a specialized medical practice allowing the integration of faith with the practice of nursing. Catholic Charities hires and trains Registered Nurses for this specialized practice. Parish Nurses are then able to see patients at their church campus for up to 8 hours a week. There is no cost to the patient or the church.
Where are Parish Nurses located? Can they be hired for my parish?
Currently, Catholic Charities’ nurses are practicing in Tyler, Texarkana, Longview, Atlanta, Chandler, Flint, Frankston, Kilgore, Nacogdoches, Emory, and Lufkin. If your parish is interested in this program, please contact Catholic Charities (903) 258-9492 ext. 104.
Who can apply to become a Parish Nurse?
Applications are being accepted throughout the Diocese for compassionate and caring Registered Nurses interested in becoming a parish nurse, school nurse or outreach nurse. Nurses should submit their resumes and completed application to Patty Brittain, Deputy Director by email pbrittain@cctyler.org
Are there other ministries for Nurses in the Diocese?
Yes. Catholic School Nurse: These professionals promote healthy behaviors; improve the health status of children and teenagers; collaborate with community agencies to meet physical and mental health needs of children and families; and follow the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Healthcare. They coordinate the health records and health screenings required by the state and implement protocols for children with potentially life threatening medical needs such as diabetes, allergic reactions, etc.
Priest Nurse: There are almost 90 priests in the Diocese of Tyler. Within 5 years, approximately 25% of the priests will reach retirement age. Priest Nurses are assigned to specifically minister to the health care needs of our aging or infirmed clergy.
Why is there a need for an Infant Safety Program?
There is a high rate of infant deaths in our region with much of it due to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Infants with no bed of their own may be more susceptible to SIDS. Catholic Charities provides a free mini crib to new mothers without a baby bed or bassinet. Car seats for infants 4-30 lbs are also available to parents in need.
