CONGREGATIONAL CARE

Health ministers in a faith community work to identify the physical, social and spiritual needs of members of the faith community. They advocate, model and teach the principles that lead to a healthier and more balanced life.

Approaches to health ministry are based on the identification of needs of individuals within a faith community. Health advocacy is based on the idea of empowerment , a process of collective reflection and action in which previously isolated individuals become active in shaping their health and wellness journey.

A summary of the roles and responsibilities of a Congregational Health Minister/Community Health Advocate are:

➤ Offer health education via bulletin inserts, posters, articles, classes, small groups or other events where health content can be added. Teaching members of the community about health issues and their connection to spirituality and mental health can change behaviors and subsequently improve overall health.

➤ Support to members of the community in times of crisis, grief or loss through calls or visits individual/group contacts . People benefit from the health ministers’ listening skills and spiritual care as the health ministers draw on the faith traditions of the church or individuals to help people cope with loss and grief.

➤ Depending on his/her background, health ministers may provide referrals to information and services for those needing extra health care. Health Ministers make referrals for individual health assessments to a qualified FCN or qualified professional. Health Ministers do not provide direct services or medical advice to the faith community.

➤ Collaborate with Faith Community Nurse and other members of the Health Ministry team. Health Ministers support new and existing activities and an understanding of what keeps us healthy and connected.