I hope that everyone has had a great month or so... Our son's
wedding in Virginia was great! The ministry times in the past month
or so was super! Anyway... It is nice to be home.

For those who do not get Advance for nurses they had in the October
issue a CEU for Spiritual Pain and I thought that I wound send the
link for those who may want to participate.

Has anyone read or is reading a good book on Parish Nursing or
Spirituality? If so, let us know what you are reading and what you
think of it.

A thought for the day or week; Did you know that rain just doesn't
fall to the ground but is pulled to the ground by gravity. (I know
you are thinking - I know that) - But, did you know that that is the
same way with the things of God? You must draw, pull or otherwise
make a demand on His power. Become a participator not just a
spectator. Begin to draw on the wisdom, power, anointing, and
promises of God - today!

Blessings to you and your families!

Roger Gauthier, RN, M.Div.
Risen Son Ministries

Advance for Nurses

http://nursing.advanceweb.com/main.aspx


https://nursing.advanceweb.com/Common/CE/Course.aspx?
CourseID=629&CreditID=1


Spiritual Pain (257)
Craig Lee, 24, is a new paraplegic. As you get him ready to go to
occupational therapy, he blurts out, "What's the use?"
Eileen Thomas, mother of five, is experiencing severe pain. After you
give her a narcotic, Eileen tearfully asks, "Why would God let this
happen to me?"
Whether it is a "why" question, an angry expression of
purposelessness, or another expression of spiritual pain, such
patient disclosures typically leave nurses wondering what to say.
Although nurses often are disconcerted by patients' distress, such
disclosures give nurses an opportunity to support holistic healing.
This article will describe elemental communication skills for
creating a healing response to patients expressing spiritual pain.
The goal of this continuing education offering is to provide nurses
with current information on communicating with patients in spiritual
pain. After reading this article, you will be able to:
1. List three responses that silence rather than help a patient who
expresses spiritual pain.
2. Discuss two skills useful for responding to patients with
spiritual pain.
3. Identify three dimensions of comforting responses.

 This offering expires on September 24, 2009
Read Article: Spiritual Pain
Take Test: Spiritual Pain

 (Grade to pass: 70%, 2 tries)



Skills of Outstanding Leaders
A Powerful Brand of Boldness
by Mac Hammond

Wise King Solomon once said: "The wicked flee when no one is
pursuing, but the righteous are as bold as a lion." Edmond Burke made
a similar observation when he wrote, "The timid soul never attains
greatness. He is doomed to a life of cautious wading in the shallows
of accomplishment."

There is a powerful brand of boldness that only comes from knowing
God. The God-kind of boldness is wise, prudent, and discerning. Those
who possess it will climb to heights of achievement that the timid
and fearful see only in their dreams.

God's winning word for leaders today is "boldness." My question for
you is, "Are you leading timidly or boldly?"

Source: Winner's Way Broadcast produced by Mac Hammond Ministries
(Minneapolis: Mac Hammond Ministries, 2003)
All rights reserved. Used by permission.

- To subscribe to this email newsletter, please click here.

MAC HAMMOND MINISTRIES, 9201 75th Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, MN 55428
Website: www.winnersminute.org

Copyright 2007. Mac Hammond Ministries, All rights reserved.

Jack,
I have not found it feasible to legislate behavior at church-or even
helpful.  Our parishioners are elderly by and large and are not open to even
doing fruit on a weekly basis as they feel it is too expensive to provide it
to the whole church on Sunday morning at fellowship time.  It has been a
struggle but our cabinet has provided a "healthy choice" on a monthly basis
for several years and it is always well received but only when there was a
sweet treat to go along with it.  We have a small congregation and one would
think it would be more doable but ...not so. We put a sign-up sheet out for
who would bring treats and only the sweet side was filled in and none of the
healthy alternative side. Good luck writing polices about health--they
almost always fail...or drive people away.  The change has to come about
gradually and be demonstrated and encouraged--not demanded.

Hello

I am putting together a guide that shows examples of polices that
promote wellness in a faith setting.  I was wondering if you can share
with me any policy that your church or place of worship has developed
that promote healthy eating behaviors or assist people to be physically
active.  for example...  a policy that there will only be baked foods
served a church events... or that at meetings water and fruit will be
made available.   If you have such polices already could you please
either email me or post to the group... I am going to make a
compilation of the policies and share with those who express interest.

Thanks!

FEATURE

Abstract:
This article describes the critical incident technique (CIT) as it informs holistic nursing. The CIT is a qualitative, systematic, open-ended technique for educing descriptive data from participants. It is an effective naturalistic tool for focusing participants on a specific event. The CIT is a user-friendly instrument that can foster reflection and promote personal expression. Holistic nursing is a personal and professional commitment to the healing process of self and others. The competency of holistic nurses revolves around their ability to incorporate the concepts and standards of the philosophy of holistic nursing into their life and practice. This article explores the use of the CIT in 2 separate studies on holistic nurses. Both studies utilized the CIT as a secondary source of data collection. All participants in both studies were members of the American Holistic Nurses Association. One study explored how experienced certified holistic nurses learned to become competent practitioners, while the other study focused on holistic nurses' experience with modalities, the perceived benefits to self and client.

(C) 2007 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.

FEATURE

Abstract:
Spirituality and the expression of spirituality have received renewed interest in both nursing and nonnursing literature over the last 20 years. Scholars in spirituality studies have contributed to the wealth of both qualitative and quantitative data that exist. Spiritual practices that facilitate spiritual health are embedded within many nursing interventions. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of empirical and associated nursing literature on spiritual practices. Definitions of spirituality and spiritual health are included, and theoretical underpinnings of the empirical literature are discussed. Relation of spiritual practice as a health behavior is presented with implications for future research identified.

(C) 2007 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.

The Congregational Health Ministry Survey

Key Findings

September 18, 2007

Summary: 

The Congregational Health Ministry Survey was conducted by the National Council of Churches USA with support from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. More than 6,000 congregations responded to the survey.  These congregations represent a collective 2.5 million members  

The survey was designed to:

• Document the amount of congregational activity addressing health issues.
• Portray the range and distribution of health and healthcare-related activities in congregations across the country.
• Describe the characteristics of congregations that are most involved in the provision of health services.

Key Findings 

The survey shows that a majority of churches provide healthcare ministries in health education, direct healthcare services, and in advocacy of public policy issues related to healthcare. Highlights from the findings include:

• Seventy percent of responding churches provide direct health services. Direct services reported include counseling, 12-Step Programs, emergency medical funding, mental health counseling, and even the professional support of a parish nurse or health minister.
• Sixty-five percent offer health education programs within their community. Education programs include providing information on the prevention of disease, maintaining the health of senior citizens, medical programs, and ways to overcome diseases ranging from obesity to HIV/AIDS.
• Reporting congregations have an average of 13.07 health-related activities each. The sample of 6,037 responding congregations reported a staggering total of 78,907 health ministry programs.
• Most reporting congregations provided healthcare ministries to members and non-members alike.
• The results indicate that 51 percent of responding congregations offer direct financial support to individuals who need help paying their medical bills.

o       Public policy advocacy was provided by 35 percent of the reporting congregations. Advocacy is done through preaching, group discussions, voter education, communications with government and healthcare providers and other activities.

o       Nearly 300 African American congregations responded to the survey, reporting the same creativity and variety of healthcare ministries as the total sample. 

The full survey report can be accessed online here.

http://www.ncccusa.org/pdfs/healthsurveyfinal.html

The National Council of Churches USA is the ecumenical voice of 35 of America's Protestant, Anglican, Orthodox, historic African American and traditional peace churches.  Those member communions represent 45 million faithful Christians in 100,000 congregations in all 50 states. 

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation focuses on the pressing health and health care issues facing our country. The Foundation is the sponsor of Cover the Uninsured, the largest mobilization in history to create awareness of the need for action on the issue of the uninsured. As the nation's largest philanthropy devoted exclusively to improving the health and health care of all Americans, the Foundation works with a diverse group of organizations and individuals to identify solutions and achieve comprehensive, meaningful and timely change. For more than 30 years the Foundation has brought experience, commitment, and a rigorous, balanced approach to the problems that affect the health and health care of those it serves. When it comes to helping Americans lead healthier lives and get the care they need, the Foundation expects to make a difference in your lifetime. For more information, visit www.rwjf.org.

NCC contact:  Philip E. Jenks, 212.870.2228
RWJF contact: Erica Garland, 202.745.5110

----- Original Message -----

From: Scott Eldridge

To: ParishNurse@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Friday, September 21, 2007 9:07 PM

Subject: Re: [ParishNurse] intergenerational health projects

Some of the projects I have done are a DARE review with our local law enforcement for our youth, End of Life class wtih concluded with mass Living Will & Health Care Power of Attor. signing. I have just sent out my first news letter to the church and in a couple weeks will be putting on a STD teen pregnancy class for the youth and their parents

 

hope it helps, Scott

----- Original Message ----
From: janet <captpitt@cjnetworks.com>
To: ParishNurse@yahoogroups.com; Kansas Parish Nurse Ministry Yahoo group <KPNM@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Friday, August 17, 2007 11:55:29 AM
Subject: [ParishNurse] intergenerational health projects

I received this request from  a member of Congregational Health Ministry

Could you help me with the projects you have had??

------------ --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ------

I am trying to get a list of intergenerational health projects, events, classes etc. that HM / PN programs are doing. Do you have some suggestions or can you send an email request out for me?

 

 

---

Luggage? GPS? Comic books?
Check out fitting gifts for grads at Yahoo! Search.

Janine,   

            Welcome to this wonderful group! I am also a new member. It seems to me that Our Lord has through our esteemed Group Facilitator/owner & these dedicated Parish Nurse Professionals, provided us with a much needed resource of information as well as a forum providing support & encouragement! This specialty area of Nursing is not yet well known/accepted, as evidenced for example by the lack of demand for such positions that are compensated financially. I seek Our Lord's counsel & how to proceed step by step in terms of how to serve, this being my foremost desire & as the Word teaches (to paraphrase) all other things will follow....

                     Welcome Again & may Our Lord Bless you,

                                                       Heather

               
--- In ParishNurse@yahoogroups.com, "Janine" <janineerrn@...> wrote:
>
> My name is Janine, I have been in the medical field for over 20
> years. I have had my RN for 8 years. I am currently finishing my BSN
> and plan to get my Masters in Parish Nursing. My experience has been
> ER, Clinics, Pediatric office, and now Home Health.
>
> I was raised Roman Catholic and stopped attending Church regularly
> when I was 30. I still had strong faith in God but I just drifted
> away to learn some lessons. I attended churches of different
> denominations for the past 5 years and have finally found the church
> I should be in.
>
> I have prayed for direction for so long and now my prayers are being
> answered, one after another..... God is awesome! My new church home
> is growing by leaps and bounds. I keep having dreams about doing
> health screenings in church. It seems that every article I read has
> to do with Parish Nursing. I feel God has made my direction clear.
>
> I currently have a nice, cushie nursing supervisor job. I like it.
> But I am being pulled hard toward Parish nursing. This was not the
> answer I expected. It never crossed my mind before. The more I look
> into it, the more passionate about it I become and then God opens
> more doors!!!
>
> At first I thought I did not have a clue about Parish Nursing but I
> am finding out that it is all the parts of nursing that I love to do
> and have experience doing. I know why I have had the experience I
> have had up until now, I know why I drifted... I was not ready for
> the answers I prayed for but God was preparing me even when I was in
> doubt.
>
> So here I am.....I can not wait to live the future God has planned
> for me. My trust is in HIM.
>
> Peace,
> Janine
>

Janine,   

            Welcome to this wonderful group! I am also a new member. It seems to me that Our Lord has through our esteemed Group Facilitator/owner & these dedicated Parish Nurse Professionals, provided us with a much needed resource of information as well as a forum providing support & encouragement! This specialty area of Nursing is not yet well known/accepted, as evidenced for example by the lack of demand for such positions that are compensated financially. I seek Our Lord's counsel & how to proceed step by step in terms of how to serve, this being my foremost desire & as the Word teaches (to paraphrase) all other things will follow....

                     Welcome Again & may Our Lord Bless you,

                                                       Heather

               
--- In ParishNurse@yahoogroups.com, "Janine" <janineerrn@...> wrote:
>
> My name is Janine, I have been in the medical field for over 20
> years. I have had my RN for 8 years. I am currently finishing my BSN
> and plan to get my Masters in Parish Nursing. My experience has been
> ER, Clinics, Pediatric office, and now Home Health.
>
> I was raised Roman Catholic and stopped attending Church regularly
> when I was 30. I still had strong faith in God but I just drifted
> away to learn some lessons. I attended churches of different
> denominations for the past 5 years and have finally found the church
> I should be in.
>
> I have prayed for direction for so long and now my prayers are being
> answered, one after another..... God is awesome! My new church home
> is growing by leaps and bounds. I keep having dreams about doing
> health screenings in church. It seems that every article I read has
> to do with Parish Nursing. I feel God has made my direction clear.
>
> I currently have a nice, cushie nursing supervisor job. I like it.
> But I am being pulled hard toward Parish nursing. This was not the
> answer I expected. It never crossed my mind before. The more I look
> into it, the more passionate about it I become and then God opens
> more doors!!!
>
> At first I thought I did not have a clue about Parish Nursing but I
> am finding out that it is all the parts of nursing that I love to do
> and have experience doing. I know why I have had the experience I
> have had up until now, I know why I drifted... I was not ready for
> the answers I prayed for but God was preparing me even when I was in
> doubt.
>
> So here I am.....I can not wait to live the future God has planned
> for me. My trust is in HIM.
>
> Peace,
> Janine
>

Scott,

While I was reading your note, the Lord reminded me of three texts that you may want to read or have as part of your reference material.  All three are by Jack Hayford and all are published by Regal books.

1. Sex and the Single Soul - Guarding Your Heart and Mind in a World of Empty Promises

2. Fatal Attractions - Why Sex Sins Are Worse Than Others

3. Anatomy of Seduction - Defending Your Heart for God

Outside of being a Jack Hayford fan, these are very good.  We highly suggest anyone who is in leadership or working with teens in our ministry read these.

I really enjoy these introductions - you get to see not only where people have been but where the Lord is leading them as well. 

Of course, anyone that has not introduced themselves or who have been around for a long time and has not done so are encouraged to do so if they wish.

I hope that everyone has had a safe and exciting Labor day.

Blessing to all,

Roger

On Sep 3, 2007, at 2:53 PM, Scott Eldridge wrote:

Welcome Janine,

I to have a pull towards to Parrish Nursing. I have a back ground in cardiac cath lab, cardiovascular and pulmonary rehab, and emergency medicine.

I have 3 years before I can retire and would like to make the Health Ministry I help start at my church grow.

It has been in a but of a lul as our church building fell victum to arson and we have not been in our facilities since the first week in January. WE GET TO GO BACK HOME THIS SUNDAY and it is going to be so awsome. We wont be in the santuary until Jan, 08 but the day we get back there with be a year to the day our church was set on fire. We have been worshiping with a sister church for 5 months and before that traveled to other churches on different Sundays. What a wonderful community we have.

I am using this tme and renewed energy to jump start the health ministry. I am planning a sex/STD progrom for out church youth and plan on starting a monthly news letter. I also am in the process of planning the 3rd medical mission trip for our church to Africa

I dont know where I will go as I travel down this path God is laying out for me, but I am ready to go. I hope that something develops at my church as a paid position and can have the best of both worlds...missions and parrish nursing.

 

I am telling you all this as this group of belivers had been a source of strength for me wheather you know it or not...thanks group.

If you have questions, they have the answers :)

 

Pray for us as we start this new journey and that we are about god will not ours

 

God bless all,

Scott Eldridge RN

North Carolina

Janine <janineerrn@yahoo.com> wrote:

My name is Janine, I have been in the medical field for over 20
years. I have had my RN for 8 years. I am currently finishing my BSN
and plan to get my Masters in Parish Nursing. My experience has been
ER, Clinics, Pediatric office, and now Home Health.

I was raised Roman Catholic and stopped attending Church regularly
when I was 30. I still had strong faith in God but I just drifted
away to learn some lessons. I attended churches of different
denominations for the past 5 years and have finally found the church
I should be in.

I have prayed for direction for so long and now my prayers are being
answered, one after another..... God is awesome! My new church home
is growing by leaps and bounds. I keep having dreams about doing
health screenings in church. It seems that every article I read has
to do with Parish Nursing. I feel God has made my direction clear.

I currently have a nice, cushie nursing supervisor job. I like it.
But I am being pulled hard toward Parish nursing. This was not the
answer I expected. It never crossed my mind before. The more I look
into it, the more passionate about it I become and then God opens
more doors!!!

At first I thought I did not have a clue about Parish Nursing but I
am finding out that it is all the parts of nursing that I love to do
and have experience doing. I know why I have had the experience I
have had up until now, I know why I drifted... I was not ready for
the answers I prayed for but God was preparing me even when I was in
doubt.

So here I am.....I can not wait to live the future God has planned
for me. My trust is in HIM.

Peace,
Janine

---

Moody friends. Drama queens. Your life? Nope! - their life, your story.
Play Sims Stories at Yahoo! Games.

My name is Janine, I have been in the medical field for over 20
years. I have had my RN for 8 years. I am currently finishing my BSN
and plan to get my Masters in Parish Nursing. My experience has been
ER, Clinics, Pediatric office, and now Home Health.

I was raised Roman Catholic and stopped attending Church regularly
when I was 30. I still had strong faith in God but I just drifted
away to learn some lessons. I attended churches of different
denominations for the past 5 years and have finally found the church
I should be in.

I have prayed for direction for so long and now my prayers are being
answered, one after another..... God is awesome! My new church home
is growing by leaps and bounds. I keep having dreams about doing
health screenings in church. It seems that every article I read has
to do with Parish Nursing. I feel God has made my direction clear.

I currently have a nice, cushie nursing supervisor job. I like it.
But I am being pulled hard toward Parish nursing. This was not the
answer I expected. It never crossed my mind before. The more I look
into it, the more passionate about it I become and then God opens
more doors!!!

At first I thought I did not have a clue about Parish Nursing but I
am finding out that it is all the parts of nursing that I love to do
and have experience doing. I know why I have had the experience I
have had up until now, I know why I drifted... I was not ready for
the answers I prayed for but God was preparing me even when I was in
doubt.

So here I am.....I can not wait to live the future God has planned
for me. My trust is in HIM.

Peace,
Janine

My name is Janine, I have been in the medical field for over 20
years. I have had my RN for 8 years. I am currently finishing my BSN
and plan to get my Masters in Parish Nursing. My experience has been
ER, Clinics, Pediatric office, and now Home Health.

I was raised Roman Catholic and stopped attending Church regularly
when I was 30. I still had strong faith in God but I just drifted
away to learn some lessons. I attended churches of different
denominations for the past 5 years and have finally found the church
I should be in.

I have prayed for direction for so long and now my prayers are being
answered, one after another..... God is awesome! My new church home
is growing by leaps and bounds. I keep having dreams about doing
health screenings in church. It seems that every article I read has
to do with Parish Nursing. I feel God has made my direction clear.

I currently have a nice, cushie nursing supervisor job. I like it.
But I am being pulled hard toward Parish nursing. This was not the
answer I expected. It never crossed my mind before. The more I look
into it, the more passionate about it I become and then God opens
more doors!!!

At first I thought I did not have a clue about Parish Nursing but I
am finding out that it is all the parts of nursing that I love to do
and have experience doing. I know why I have had the experience I
have had up until now, I know why I drifted... I was not ready for
the answers I prayed for but God was preparing me even when I was in
doubt.

So here I am.....I can not wait to live the future God has planned
for me. My trust is in HIM.

Peace,
Janine

--- In ParishNurse@yahoogroups.com, Roger Gauthier <roger_g@...> wrote:
>
> I have a two part question for those of you who wish to respond:
>
> As a referral agent for your congregation, have you researched and
> made a list of physicians or practitioners that hold to your
> congregational belief system and do you refer patients to those
> practitioners?
>
> An example would be if your patient believes strongly in prayer and
> faith would you refer them to a practitioner that uses prayer etc. in
> their practice, all other considerations being equal.
>
> I am wondering who else out there is doing this.
>
> Thanks for responding.
>
> Roger
>
>
> Key to Organizational Increase
> Planning
>
> by Mac Hammond
>
> A deep commitment to a sound plan and a firm determination to carry
> it out...It is a fundamental management principle, both for
> individuals and for organizations. Without a plan, you have nowhere
> to go and nothing toward which to direct your energies.
>
> That's why careful planning is one of the Bible's keys to
> organizational increase. As we read in Proverbs: "The plans of the
> diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes
> surely to poverty."
>
> My question for you is, "Are you being 'hasty'? Or are you pursuing a
> plan with determination?"
>
> Source: Winner's Way Broadcast produced by Mac Hammond Ministries
> (Minneapolis: Mac Hammond Ministries, 2003)
> All rights reserved. Used by permission.
>
> MAC HAMMOND MINISTRIES, 9201 75th Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, MN
55428
> Website: www.winnersminute.org
>
> Copyright 2007. Mac Hammond Ministries, All rights reserved.
>Roger,

           Those are great questions..... Prior to pursuing steps towards
becoming a Parish Nurse, on a personal level I recall wanting a resource
of health practitioners as described above.....not available to my
knowledge in past experience & have intended to question if same exists
at my present church community for reasons of a personal nature. I do
believe that such sensitivity & concern as communicated by such a list
by Parish Nurse would be of both practical & therapeutic relationship
building  significance. I don't believe it to be "premature" to make
efforts to plan ahead for the best provision of care, as we would do
nursing in an institutional setting.

           I like the quote re: organizational planning.... do you find
that to be a worthwhile book? Are there any other such books you might
recommend?

            Hope I didn't repeat others' messages..... will be reading
other posts when I have a bit more time.

                                               Faith, Hope & Charity,


Heather

--- In ParishNurse@yahoogroups.com, Roger Gauthier <roger_g@...> wrote:
>
> I have a two part question for those of you who wish to respond:
>
> As a referral agent for your congregation, have you researched and
> made a list of physicians or practitioners that hold to your
> congregational belief system and do you refer patients to those
> practitioners?
>
> An example would be if your patient believes strongly in prayer and
> faith would you refer them to a practitioner that uses prayer etc. in
> their practice, all other considerations being equal.
>
> I am wondering who else out there is doing this.
>
> Thanks for responding.
>
> Roger
>
>
> Key to Organizational Increase
> Planning
>
> by Mac Hammond
>
> A deep commitment to a sound plan and a firm determination to carry
> it out...It is a fundamental management principle, both for
> individuals and for organizations. Without a plan, you have nowhere
> to go and nothing toward which to direct your energies.
>
> That's why careful planning is one of the Bible's keys to
> organizational increase. As we read in Proverbs: "The plans of the
> diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes
> surely to poverty."
>
> My question for you is, "Are you being 'hasty'? Or are you pursuing a
> plan with determination?"
>
> Source: Winner's Way Broadcast produced by Mac Hammond Ministries
> (Minneapolis: Mac Hammond Ministries, 2003)
> All rights reserved. Used by permission.
>
> MAC HAMMOND MINISTRIES, 9201 75th Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, MN
55428
> Website: www.winnersminute.org
>
> Copyright 2007. Mac Hammond Ministries, All rights reserved.
>Roger,

           Those are great questions..... Prior to pursuing steps towards
becoming a Parish Nurse, on a personal level I recall wanting a resource
of health practitioners as described above.....not available to my
knowledge in past experience & have intended to question if same exists
at my present church community for reasons of a personal nature. I do
believe that such sensitivity & concern as communicated by such a list
by Parish Nurse would be of both practical & therapeutic relationship
building  significance. I don't believe it to be "premature" to make
efforts to plan ahead for the best provision of care, as we would do
nursing in an institutional setting.

           I like the quote re: organizational planning.... do you find
that to be a worthwhile book? Are there any other such books you might
recommend?

            Hope I didn't repeat others' messages..... will be reading
other posts when I have a bit more time.

                                               Faith, Hope & Charity,


Heather

----- Original Message -----

From: Roger Gauthier

To: Parish Nursing

Sent: Thursday, August 30, 2007 10:47 AM

Subject: [ParishNurse] September - Disaster Preparedness Month

Just in case you didn't know, September is National Disaster Month.  Janet has provided me with an e-mail full of on-line resources that I will post as soon as I send this out.

With all of the natural disasters that have been going on lately, floods ,wild fires, earthquakes, etc. We have started to see an increase in concerns of a terrorist strike here in the U.S.  And there has been a significant increase of reports/concerns/intelligence that it will happen sooner rather than later.  Speaking with people in the capital area that are in government; there seems to be a sense of foreboding (these are observations that I have made based on my readings of intelligence reports and my background while I was in the military).  

This is in no way to cause fear (oh my the sky is falling per chicken little), but to arouse awareness?  Are we ready??

Now here is my question!  Is your church/synagogue/congregation ready for the spiritual side?  What I mean is are you ready for a sudden influx of individuals seeking answers to questions?  Yes, I understand that this is an area that falls under the purview of the pastor/rabbi/congregational leader.  But, as a number of parish nurses are considered a part of the ministerial staff, you may be tasked with assisting.  A number of these people may also have physical or psychological complaints and you may be consulted in that fashion.

My question remains, Are you ready or prepared?  Is your team (if you have one or are a part of) prepared?

If I could encourage you to do one thing, that would be to prepare yourself.  What I mean by that is to spend plenty of time in prayer, in the study of G-d's Word, and in devotional reading.  You can not minister effectively yourself if you are not full. (And that should be always, because you are always ministering) Imagine for a moment that you are a gallon jug, are you more effective full or partially full?  The fuller you are the more effective you will be.  Encourage yourselves, your family, your team, and your pastor/rabbi/congregational leader.  (Spontaneous encouragement of your ministerial leadership helps tremendously! Let them know occasionally that you are praying for them)

Deuteronomy 1.38 Y’hoshua the son of Nun, your assistant — he will go in there. So encourage him, because he will enable Isra’el to take possession of it. (CJB)

Joshua 1.9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. (KJV)

Be Blessed this day!

Love in Yeshua HaMasiach,

Roger

Becoming a Star at Work Complete, Unswerving Commitment by Mac Hammond

Loyalty is so rare these days because we live in a society that really doesn't value personal submission. On the contrary, it teaches that the ideal is complete personal autonomy. For the past three weeks, we've been exploring the eight qualities I believe are essential if you want to be the kind of person wise leaders look for in those they promote to leadership.  The sixth of these is loyalty—the complete, unswerving commitment to seek the best interests of those in authority over you—even when you disagree with the direction they have set. The fact that it is such a rare commodity in our culture, makes you all the more valuable when you actually possess it.  Copyright © 2003 Mac Hammond Ministries  All rights reserved. Used by permission.

MAC HAMMOND MINISTRIES, 9201 75th Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, MN 55428

Website: www.winnersminute.org 

 

Copyright 2007. Mac Hammond Ministries, All rights reserved.

“We Are Going to Get Hit Again”

The head of the National Counterterrorism Center speaks out on Al Qaeda's plans, America’s readiness—and the nature of the war on terror.

Capital Sources: The Next Terrorist Attack

The head of the National Counterterrorism Center speaks out on Al Qaeda's plans, America’s readiness—and the nature of the war on terror.

WEB EXCLUSIVE

By Mark Hosenball and Jeffrey Bartholet

Newsweek

Updated: 4:14 p.m. CT Aug 27, 2007

Aug. 27, 2007 - Al Qaeda has an active plot to hit the West. The United States knows about it but doesn’t have enough tactical detail to issue a precise warning or raise the threat level, says Vice Admiral (ret.) John Scott Redd, who heads the government’s National Counterterrorism Center. In an interview at his headquarters near Washington, D.C., Redd told Newsweek’s Mark Hosenball and Jeffrey Bartholet that the country is better prepared than ever to counter such threats. But he also believes another successful terror attack on the U.S. homeland is inevitable. Excerpts:

URL: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20466414/site/newsweek/

© 2007 MSNBC.com

Share the Care

With rising health-insurance costs, it's time to consider a biblical alternative.

Health-insurance premiums are ranging from $600 to $1,200, and many churches are thinking long and hard about the costs for the pastor's health-insurance needs. To add insult to injury, a large percentage of their insurance premium may be directly supporting lifestyles they abhor.

Several ministries have emerged offering non-insurance approaches to paying medical bills. Their track records indicate that the monthly sharing cost typically runs less than half that of conventional insurance coverage, with most members saving between $2,000-$4,000 or more a year. Since the sharing programs offered by these ministries are not insurance and are voluntary-offering no guarantees-it is important that those contemplating the sharing concept fully understand medical sharing programs.

Four ingredients have helped make the sharing programs attractive to believers: (1) It is less expensive; (2) Members feel good that their monthly share is supporting fellow Christians who do not live destructive lifestyles; (3) The sharing programs rally prayer and a sense of community around the member in need; and (4) Each member has a say in how they choose to share with one another through an annual ballot.

Members or subscribers send a specific amount each month responding to a share notice. The share is designated to go to a specific member to assist in paying that assigned member's eligible medical bills.

For example, if a member has an eligible medical need of $8,000, the ministry's software program would assign however many members it will take to pay that bill. Those members assigned would receive a notice with the member's name and address printed. The assigned member is encouraged to contact the member in need with a card or letter of encouragement, put them on their prayer list, plus send their share that month to aid in paying the bills.

The monthly share amount is derived by taking the sum total of the eligible monthly medical bills sent by members and dividing by the sharing households. The share rarely fluctuates from month to month because of the large numbers in the sharing pool. For example, one program has a $250 one-time deductible per year for any medical need that exceeds $250.

Though medical sharing does not have all the “bells and whistles” offered by conventional health insurance, many find the trade-off worthwhile when their healthcare budget decreases by 50 percent or more. For a family that goes to the doctor every time a child has a cough or sniffle, a sharing program may not yield enough significant savings, but for those families or individuals who are reasonably healthy, it may be a godsend.

Before You Leap

Seven questions to ask when considering cooperative healthcare.

1. What is the track record of the ministry? Has the ministry ever experienced months when all the eligible bills were not 100 percent paid?
2. What is the accountability structure of the ministry? Do they have certified audits, and are they available to you? Do they have an independent board of directors (persons not remunerated by the ministry)? What is the structure for oversight?
3. Does the ministry have any provision for catastrophic medical bills? What will happen if there is a close series of major catastrophic bills? Does the ministry provide for this contingency through stop-loss insurance, and, if so, is the policy with a highly rated insurance carrier?
4. If there is a dispute between the member and the ministry regarding eligibility of bills, are there provisions for impartial reviews or arbitration?
5. What about pre-existing issues? Most ministries do not share pre-existing conditions until they are cured and/or go without treatment, medication or symptoms for a period of time.
6. Who sets the rules? Do members vote on issues that affect their monthly share?
7. Does the ministry have programs to assist the members to make lifestyle alterations and avoid catastrophic medical events? You may want to position yourself with ministries that are concerned about future medical bills and how to keep them from escalating.

Share the Care

With rising health-insurance costs, it's time to consider a biblical alternative.

Health-insurance premiums are ranging from $600 to $1,200, and many churches are thinking long and hard about the costs for the pastor's health-insurance needs. To add insult to injury, a large percentage of their insurance premium may be directly supporting lifestyles they abhor.

Several ministries have emerged offering non-insurance approaches to paying medical bills. Their track records indicate that the monthly sharing cost typically runs less than half that of conventional insurance coverage, with most members saving between $2,000-$4,000 or more a year. Since the sharing programs offered by these ministries are not insurance and are voluntary-offering no guarantees-it is important that those contemplating the sharing concept fully understand medical sharing programs.

Four ingredients have helped make the sharing programs attractive to believers: (1) It is less expensive; (2) Members feel good that their monthly share is supporting fellow Christians who do not live destructive lifestyles; (3) The sharing programs rally prayer and a sense of community around the member in need; and (4) Each member has a say in how they choose to share with one another through an annual ballot.

Members or subscribers send a specific amount each month responding to a share notice. The share is designated to go to a specific member to assist in paying that assigned member's eligible medical bills.

For example, if a member has an eligible medical need of $8,000, the ministry's software program would assign however many members it will take to pay that bill. Those members assigned would receive a notice with the member's name and address printed. The assigned member is encouraged to contact the member in need with a card or letter of encouragement, put them on their prayer list, plus send their share that month to aid in paying the bills.

The monthly share amount is derived by taking the sum total of the eligible monthly medical bills sent by members and dividing by the sharing households. The share rarely fluctuates from month to month because of the large numbers in the sharing pool. For example, one program has a $250 one-time deductible per year for any medical need that exceeds $250.

Though medical sharing does not have all the “bells and whistles” offered by conventional health insurance, many find the trade-off worthwhile when their healthcare budget decreases by 50 percent or more. For a family that goes to the doctor every time a child has a cough or sniffle, a sharing program may not yield enough significant savings, but for those families or individuals who are reasonably healthy, it may be a godsend.

Before You Leap

Seven questions to ask when considering cooperative healthcare.

1. What is the track record of the ministry? Has the ministry ever experienced months when all the eligible bills were not 100 percent paid?
2. What is the accountability structure of the ministry? Do they have certified audits, and are they available to you? Do they have an independent board of directors (persons not remunerated by the ministry)? What is the structure for oversight?
3. Does the ministry have any provision for catastrophic medical bills? What will happen if there is a close series of major catastrophic bills? Does the ministry provide for this contingency through stop-loss insurance, and, if so, is the policy with a highly rated insurance carrier?
4. If there is a dispute between the member and the ministry regarding eligibility of bills, are there provisions for impartial reviews or arbitration?
5. What about pre-existing issues? Most ministries do not share pre-existing conditions until they are cured and/or go without treatment, medication or symptoms for a period of time.
6. Who sets the rules? Do members vote on issues that affect their monthly share?
7. Does the ministry have programs to assist the members to make lifestyle alterations and avoid catastrophic medical events? You may want to position yourself with ministries that are concerned about future medical bills and how to keep them from escalating.

This is a time to collect information and resources and preparing yourself and your family for all types of emergencies. Preparing makes sense. The likelihood that you and your family will survive a house fire depends as much on having a working smoke detector and an exit strategy, as on a well-trained fire department. The same is true for surviving a terrorist attack or other emergency.

We must have the tools and plans in place to make it on our own, at least for a period of time, no matter where we are when disaster strikes. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security urges all Americans to: get a kit of emergency supplies; make a plan for what you will do in an emergency; and be informed about what might happen. Just like having a working smoke detector, preparing for the unexpected makes sense. Get Ready Now.

Basic Kit

• A minimum three-day supply of nonperishable food and manual can opener
• A minimum three-day supply of water (one gallon of water per person, per day)
• Portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit and manual
• Sanitation and hygiene items such as hand sanitizer, moist towelettes and toilet paper
• Special needs items such as prescription medications, eye glasses, contact lens solution and hearing aid batteries
• Photocopies of identification, credit cards, prescriptions and important documents in a sealed, waterproof container such as a freezer bag
• Cash and coins
• Pet supplies if you have a pet or service animal
• Appropriate clothing and blankets for your climate

• Photo Essay: National Preparedness Month Event
• Self-Assessment: Disaster Preparedness for People With Disabilities
• Department of Homeland Security's Ready Campaign
• National Organization on Disability Emergency Preparedness Initiative
• Disability Preparedness Center Resource Center
• National Fire Protection Agency
• AARP

Related Content:

• Red Cross Training Prepares Leaders to Guide Disaster Response in Local Community
• Reluctant CPR Student Saves Trainer’s Life
• Ready When the Time Comes Volunteer Program Expands
• Red Cross Leadership Briefings Reach Out to Community Organizations
• Community Relations Liaisons: Filling a Pivotal Role in Red Cross Disaster Relief
• Preparedness Helps Homesteads Facing Wildfires in the West
• Preparedness Information for Seniors and People with Disabilities
• People with Disabilities - Preparedness
• Preparedness for Seniors by Seniors

Government Links

U.S. Department of Homeland Security
http://www.dhs.gov/

FirstGov
The Official Web Portal of the US Federal Government
http://www.usa.gov/

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/

Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program
Residential Shelter-in-Place
http://emc.ornl.gov/CSEPPweb/SIP/SIP.htm

CitizenCorps.gov
http://www.citizencorps.gov/

Department of Education
Emergency Preparedness Plans for Schools
http://www.ed.gov/emergencyplan/

Department of Health and Human Services
Disasters and Emergencies
http://www.hhs.gov/disasters/index.shtml

Disaster Help
https://disasterhelp.gov/portal/jhtml/index.jhtml
Anti-Terror
https://disasterhelp.gov/portal/jhtml/community.jhtml?
community=Acts+of+Terror&index=0&id=19

Environmental Protection Agency
Emergency Preparedness
http://www.epa.gov/ebtpages/emeremergencypreparedness.html

Federal Citizen Information Center
http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/

Federal Emergency Management Agency
http://www.fema.gov/

FirstGov for Consumers
http://www.consumer.gov/

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
http://www.weather.gov/om/severeweather/index.shtml

Threat Alert System
Information for Citizens
http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/display?theme=29

USA Freedom Corps
http://www.usafreedomcorps.gov/

Non-Profit Organizations

The Ad Council
The country's leading producer of public service advertisements (PSAs) since 1942. Click this link to view all of the Ready Campaign's PSAs.
http://www.adcouncil.org

American Association of Retired Persons
http://www.aarp.org

American Medical Association
Disaster Preparedness and Medical Response
http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/category/6206.html

American Red Cross
Terrorism - Preparing for the Unexpected
http://www.redcross.org/services/disaster/keepsafe/unexpected.html

Boy Scouts of America
http://www.scouting.org

Disaster Relief
Library - Preparedness
http://www.disasterrelief.org/Library/Prepare

Girl Scouts of the USA
http://www.girlscouts.org

Go Direct
Avoid financial disruptions during disasters by considering direct deposit of your social security or SSI payment by calling Go Direct toll-free at (800) 333-1795 or sign up at www.GoDirect.org.

Home Safety Council
http://www.homesafetycouncil.org

National Safety Council
http://www.nsc.org

Neighborhood Watch
Safety Tips
http://www.usaonwatch.org/tips.asp

Points of Light & Volunteer Center National Network
Organization Coordinating Unaffiliated Volunteers in Disasters
http://www.pointsoflight.org

Thanks Barb for your response and  kind comments.

I have utilized something similar and then I just asked.  Having worked in EMS as well as the ER, OR and PACU in this area I ended up knowing or meeting a majority of the physicians and the vast majority know me and my beliefs.  Those I don't know I ask, and I am pointed with my questions. I will ask if they are christian and explain why I am asking.  I find out if they pray with their patients etc.  If I am introduced to a physician that I haven't yet met, usually within the first couple of minutes I will ask them if they are married, children, are they a christian and where they go to church.  If they are new to the area and don't have a church it is a great time to invite them to mine. 

I hope you realize that I am also in a much smaller geographical area.  Virginia Beach vs Panama City Beach (aka the Red-Neck Riviera - home of the world's most beautiful beaches) we are significantly smaller.

And I will be up that way next week, my son (our youngest and the last - thank the Lord) is getting married in Fredericksburg the 8th, while I know that is far north of you I have family in Hays, VA and will be passing thru on the way to the wedding. I will wave as I pass through!

Roger

On Aug 28, 2007, at 2:45 PM, Barbara Mace wrote:

I do refer folks to practitioners who are like minded, so far I have only learned of these by word of mouth from congregants, co-workers, friends, etc.  Having a researched comprehensive list would be wonderful.  One item we have in the Virginia Beach area is a small "phone" book that lists services by professing christians.  This has been a help when folks ask for info that is out of my realm, as there is a full range of professions listed.

 

I don't always have time to respond to the questions, Roger, but you are doing a great job and there has been a wealth of info that has been quite helpful.  The Mac Hammond snippets are very uplifting and helpful.  Thanks again for all you do.

 

Barb

Roger Gauthier <roger_g@knology.net> wrote:

I have a two part question for those of you who wish to respond:

As a referral agent for your congregation, have you researched and made a list of physicians or practitioners that hold to your congregational belief system and do you refer patients to those practitioners?

An example would be if your patient believes strongly in prayer and faith would you refer them to a practitioner that uses prayer etc. in their practice, all other considerations being equal. 

I am wondering who else out there is doing this.

Thanks for responding.

Roger

Key to Organizational Increase Planning by Mac Hammond

A deep commitment to a sound plan and a firm determination to carry it out...It is a fundamental management principle, both for individuals and for organizations. Without a plan, you have nowhere to go and nothing toward which to direct your energies.  That's why careful planning is one of the Bible's keys to organizational increase. As we read in Proverbs: "The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty."  My question for you is, "Are you being 'hasty'? Or are you pursuing a plan with determination?"  Source: Winner's Way Broadcast produced by Mac Hammond Ministries  (Minneapolis: Mac Hammond Ministries, 2003)  All rights reserved. Used by permission.

 

MAC HAMMOND MINISTRIES, 9201 75th Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, MN 55428

Website: www.winnersminute.org 

 

Copyright 2007. Mac Hammond Ministries, All rights reserved.

---

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• Roles of the Parish Nurse
• Integrator of Faith and Health - Works to improve health of body, mind, spirit, community and creation.
• Health Educator - Provides opportunities to learn about health issues.
• Health Counselor - Discusses health concerns, emphasizing early response to problems and encouraging healthy lifestyles.
• Referral Advisor - Provides referral to healthcare and social services.
• Health Advocate - Speaks out to help others obtain needed health services.
• Developer of Support Groups - Facilitates support groups for the community.
• Volunteer Coordinator - Coordinates volunteers who help those in need.

Dear Roger --

 

While I am not a congregationa/parish nurse per se, since we have so many health care professionals (doctors, nurses, chiropractors, podiatrists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants) in our synagogue there's really no need to refer to anyone in particular. A congregant can probably find what he or she is looking for just by looking through the synagogue's membership directory :-))))

 

However, sometimes, I will get a question requiring a referral to someone who is culturally sensitive, when it comes to women's health care and the needs of an Orthodox Jewish woman. In that case, I make sure to refer her to a female practitioner, preferably one who is Jewish.

 

Frankly, I can't see that referring someone who is a "professing" whatever makes for better health care. If I need a neurosurgeon, I don't care where he or she goes to meet their spiritual needs; I care where they trained, did their fellowship, and what kind of professional reputation they have. The hospital chaplain can take care of the spiritual needs; the doctor takes care of the body's needs, and if they need to be melded, that's where the rabbi, priest or minister can help, assisted by the parish nurse.

 

Anne Berson

 

Roger Gauthier <roger_g@knology.net> wrote:

I have a two part question for those of you who wish to respond:

As a referral agent for your congregation, have you researched and made a list of physicians or practitioners that hold to your congregational belief system and do you refer patients to those practitioners?

An example would be if your patient believes strongly in prayer and faith would you refer them to a practitioner that uses prayer etc. in their practice, all other considerations being equal. 

I am wondering who else out there is doing this.

Thanks for responding.

Roger

Key to Organizational Increase Planning by Mac Hammond

A deep commitment to a sound plan and a firm determination to carry it out...It is a fundamental management principle, both for individuals and for organizations. Without a plan, you have nowhere to go and nothing toward which to direct your energies.  That's why careful planning is one of the Bible's keys to organizational increase. As we read in Proverbs: "The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty."  My question for you is, "Are you being 'hasty'? Or are you pursuing a plan with determination?"  Source: Winner's Way Broadcast produced by Mac Hammond Ministries  (Minneapolis: Mac Hammond Ministries, 2003)  All rights reserved. Used by permission.

 

MAC HAMMOND MINISTRIES, 9201 75th Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, MN 55428

Website: www.winnersminute.org 

 

Copyright 2007. Mac Hammond Ministries, All rights reserved.

---

Be a better Heartthrob. Get better relationship answers from someone who knows.
Yahoo! Answers - Check it out.

Dear Anne:

Thanks for taking time to respond.  You are blessed to be in a large synagogue! Oh that we were large enough to use our membership directory as a referral tool!! That is great.

 Your referring the lady that is orthodox (or culturally sensitive - as you so aptly put it) to a preferably Jewish practitioner is in reality no different than what I am doing.  You were taking care of her cultural/spiritual needs.

I agree that I want to know where they had their training and more importantly what their professional reputation is.  But,I will disagree with you for a little bit.  I believe that the practitioner who has a strong belief system in place is and will be a better practitioner and ultimately (in general) will provide better healthcare.  And, I believe that there is sufficient literature to back that up.  Otherwise, I don't believe we would have seen a return to "holistic" care of the patient, nor the inclusion of "spirituality" courses in medical school.  I have more confidence in a practitioner that shares my belief system to be able to meet my needs than one that doesn't.  (ALL THINGS BEING EQUAL!)  Of Course, if Dr. X just happens to to be of the same belief system, but can't cut his way out of a paper bag and Dr. Y is a heathen or prays to his toaster but he is a hands down and around the block better surgeon; Dr. Y will cut on me and mine. I am not going to refer a practitioner just because of their spiritual beliefs.

That is not to discount the ministers or Rabbi's role, because they are in reality just as (and imho sometimes more) important.  

Again, thanks for your input.  Proverbs 27.17 Just as iron sharpens iron, a person sharpens the character of his friend. (Complete Jewish Bible)

Roger

I have also added some resources that pertain specifically to Jewish Congregational Nursing - there is some good information available on their sites.

http://www.shleimut.org

Shleimut Institute

http://www.jccmetrowest.org/shin.html

Project SHIN (Spiritual Healing Integrating Nursing) nurse

Karen Frank, RN the Project SHIN nurse, CJ, 973-530-3493 kfrank@....

http://www.ncjh.org/

The National Center for Jewish Healing

On Aug 28, 2007, at 4:06 PM, Anne Berson wrote:

Dear Roger --

 

While I am not a congregationa/parish nurse per se, since we have so many health care professionals (doctors, nurses, chiropractors, podiatrists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants) in our synagogue there's really no need to refer to anyone in particular. A congregant can probably find what he or she is looking for just by looking through the synagogue's membership directory :-))))

 

However, sometimes, I will get a question requiring a referral to someone who is culturally sensitive, when it comes to women's health care and the needs of an Orthodox Jewish woman. In that case, I make sure to refer her to a female practitioner, preferably one who is Jewish.

 

Frankly, I can't see that referring someone who is a "professing" whatever makes for better health care. If I need a neurosurgeon, I don't care where he or she goes to meet their spiritual needs; I care where they trained, did their fellowship, and what kind of professional reputation they have. The hospital chaplain can take care of the spiritual needs; the doctor takes care of the body's needs, and if they need to be melded, that's where the rabbi, priest or minister can help, assisted by the parish nurse.

 

Anne Berson

 

Roger Gauthier <roger_g@knology.net> wrote:

I have a two part question for those of you who wish to respond:

As a referral agent for your congregation, have you researched and made a list of physicians or practitioners that hold to your congregational belief system and do you refer patients to those practitioners?

An example would be if your patient believes strongly in prayer and faith would you refer them to a practitioner that uses prayer etc. in their practice, all other considerations being equal. 

I am wondering who else out there is doing this.

Thanks for responding.

Roger

Key to Organizational Increase Planning by Mac Hammond

A deep commitment to a sound plan and a firm determination to carry it out...It is a fundamental management principle, both for individuals and for organizations. Without a plan, you have nowhere to go and nothing toward which to direct your energies.  That's why careful planning is one of the Bible's keys to organizational increase. As we read in Proverbs: "The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty."  My question for you is, "Are you being 'hasty'? Or are you pursuing a plan with determination?"  Source: Winner's Way Broadcast produced by Mac Hammond Ministries  (Minneapolis: Mac Hammond Ministries, 2003)  All rights reserved. Used by permission.

 

MAC HAMMOND MINISTRIES, 9201 75th Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, MN 55428

Website: www.winnersminute.org 

 

Copyright 2007. Mac Hammond Ministries, All rights reserved.

---

Be a better Heartthrob. Get better relationship answers from someone who knows.
Yahoo! Answers - Check it out.

Dear Anne:

Thanks for taking time to respond.  You are blessed to be in a large synagogue! Oh that we were large enough to use our membership directory as a referral tool!! That is great.

 Your referring the lady that is orthodox (or culturally sensitive - as you so aptly put it) to a preferably Jewish practitioner is in reality no different than what I am doing.  You were taking care of her cultural/spiritual needs.

I agree that I want to know where they had their training and more importantly what their professional reputation is.  But,I will disagree with you for a little bit.  I believe that the practitioner who has a strong belief system in place is and will be a better practitioner and ultimately (in general) will provide better healthcare.  And, I believe that there is sufficient literature to back that up.  Otherwise, I don't believe we would have seen a return to "holistic" care of the patient, nor the inclusion of "spirituality" courses in medical school.  I have more confidence in a practitioner that shares my belief system to be able to meet my needs than one that doesn't.  (ALL THINGS BEING EQUAL!)  Of Course, if Dr. X just happens to to be of the same belief system, but can't cut his way out of a paper bag and Dr. Y is a heathen or prays to his toaster but he is a hands down and around the block better surgeon; Dr. Y will cut on me and mine. I am not going to refer a practitioner just because of their spiritual beliefs.

That is not to discount the ministers or Rabbi's role, because they are in reality just as (and imho sometimes more) important.  

Again, thanks for your input.  Proverbs 27.17 Just as iron sharpens iron, a person sharpens the character of his friend. (Complete Jewish Bible)

Roger

I have also added some resources that pertain specifically to Jewish Congregational Nursing - there is some good information available on their sites.

http://www.shleimut.org

Shleimut Institute

http://www.jccmetrowest.org/shin.html

Project SHIN (Spiritual Healing Integrating Nursing) nurse

Karen Frank, RN the Project SHIN nurse, CJ, 973-530-3493 kfrank@jccmetrowest.org.

http://www.ncjh.org/

The National Center for Jewish Healing

On Aug 28, 2007, at 4:06 PM, Anne Berson wrote:

Dear Roger --

 

While I am not a congregationa/parish nurse per se, since we have so many health care professionals (doctors, nurses, chiropractors, podiatrists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants) in our synagogue there's really no need to refer to anyone in particular. A congregant can probably find what he or she is looking for just by looking through the synagogue's membership directory :-))))

 

However, sometimes, I will get a question requiring a referral to someone who is culturally sensitive, when it comes to women's health care and the needs of an Orthodox Jewish woman. In that case, I make sure to refer her to a female practitioner, preferably one who is Jewish.

 

Frankly, I can't see that referring someone who is a "professing" whatever makes for better health care. If I need a neurosurgeon, I don't care where he or she goes to meet their spiritual needs; I care where they trained, did their fellowship, and what kind of professional reputation they have. The hospital chaplain can take care of the spiritual needs; the doctor takes care of the body's needs, and if they need to be melded, that's where the rabbi, priest or minister can help, assisted by the parish nurse.

 

Anne Berson

 

Roger Gauthier <roger_g@knology.net> wrote:

I have a two part question for those of you who wish to respond:

As a referral agent for your congregation, have you researched and made a list of physicians or practitioners that hold to your congregational belief system and do you refer patients to those practitioners?

An example would be if your patient believes strongly in prayer and faith would you refer them to a practitioner that uses prayer etc. in their practice, all other considerations being equal. 

I am wondering who else out there is doing this.

Thanks for responding.

Roger

Key to Organizational Increase Planning by Mac Hammond

A deep commitment to a sound plan and a firm determination to carry it out...It is a fundamental management principle, both for individuals and for organizations. Without a plan, you have nowhere to go and nothing toward which to direct your energies.  That's why careful planning is one of the Bible's keys to organizational increase. As we read in Proverbs: "The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty."  My question for you is, "Are you being 'hasty'? Or are you pursuing a plan with determination?"  Source: Winner's Way Broadcast produced by Mac Hammond Ministries  (Minneapolis: Mac Hammond Ministries, 2003)  All rights reserved. Used by permission.

 

MAC HAMMOND MINISTRIES, 9201 75th Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, MN 55428

Website: www.winnersminute.org 

 

Copyright 2007. Mac Hammond Ministries, All rights reserved.

---

Be a better Heartthrob. Get better relationship answers from someone who knows.
Yahoo! Answers - Check it out.