"I have come that they may have life and have it to the full." John 10:10
July 2011
A Vision of Health Ministry for Christ the King.
As we, a community of faith, look toward the future and develop goals and objectives to define us I would like to present my vision for Health Ministry here at Christ the King.
First what is Health & Wellness within the church? In answer to that question I would like to amend the definition provided by the World Health Organization to read as follows:
Health is a state of complete physical, mental, social and spiritual well-being and not merely the
absence of disease or infirmity.
Why should it be within the mission of the Church? The ELCA developed a social statement in 2003 that states; health is a shared endeavor among individuals, churches, government, and the wider society. The statement can be read in its’ entirety at; http://www.elca.org/What-We-Believe/Social-Issues/Social-Statements/Health-and-Healthcare.aspx
How would such a ministry be visible within Christ the King? Currently it is seen in the Stephen Ministers who visit with those who need to have someone to listen and support them for a multitude of reasons. It is seen in support for the Food Bank where we provide for the nutritional needs of our community, and in the Community Kitchen as we literally serve our neighbors in need. The fact that we are designated a shelter with the Red Cross and the funding of a Parish Nurse within the congregation are the beginnings of an even wider ministry. In the future I can envision a well provided for and available shelter with trained workers that can run it in an efficient and caring manner. Christ the King with a comprehensive disaster plan and providing a presence within disaster planning alongside community and social service agencies to look at the preparedness of the community. A Parish Nurse Corp that provides education, and care for everyone including those attending our Pre-School, our youth as they move through the minefield of growing into adulthood, our families as they raise healthy children and our seniors with questions and concerns related to their own health. I envision Health Ministers who provide the presence of Christ and caring within our local nursing homes and those who are restricted to their own homes. Additionally I see Health Ministry working alongside Global Missions to help in the wider and greater needs of God’s entire world. I am sure that you can add to this list a number of activities that would come under the Health Ministry umbrella.
Who can be involved in this ministry? The nurse who takes blood pressure measurements on a Sunday morning; a Stephen Minister as they visit their care receiver; the teen serving at Community Kitchen; the teacher who is working with the confirmation class listening to concerns from our youth; the preschool teacher helping students wash their hands; and yes, there is a place for you.
I welcome and will respond to any comments or questions you may have, please stop me when you see me at Church, or reach me by phone or e-mail.
Anita Huntley RN BSN MPH
Parish Nurse
360.568.8318 or 206.931.7976