As a Faith Community Nurse (FCN) in my church I care for people holistically – body, mind and spirit. Each person’s health is impacted by their relationships. Their relationships with God, with other people, and with the creation, therefore the support and care I bring considers those aspects as well. I begin by listening to what’s happening for the person. Once I have heard their story I offer to pray with them if they want this.

I provide various care services such as health counselling, 1:1 education about their health condition, support with navigating various care systems, and location of useful resources. I provide people with information and support so they can make informed decisions and take appropriate actions that will benefit their health and wellbeing, and where possible the family’s wellbeing.

God places us into community to “love one another” and in my FCN role I can “love my neighbour” in a meaningful and tangible way. I am part of the health and pastoral care ministry at my church. I bring a health focus that adds depth and scope to our pastoral care. I use my professional knowledge and skills to support many different situations for people of all ages in my church, and I also provide an outreach ministry to our local community.
Opportunities in the FCN role are vast and life-changing for the people we serve. I thoroughly recommend churches consider adding an FCN to their pastoral care ministry and experience for themselves the many benefits this role can bring to their community.