Departing Parish Nurse Reflects on Experiences

By Eileen Birch

Research says reminiscing is good. First, it allows us to recall previous life situations and re-experience them, helping us to integrate our life in the past with our current life. Second, reminiscing helps us to make meaning out of our previous life experience. By finding meaning, we are able to develop new insights. Third, reminiscing strengthens our self-esteem. Sharing our story with others reemphasizes our interdependence on others and validates our life in a social context. The philosopher Kierkegaard said, "Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards".

I first became interested in Pastoral Care while practicing nursing in an intensive care unit of a local hospital. I saw how important spiritual care was in the lives of those facing their own mortality and for their families as well. I decided that going to graduate school to learn more about pastoral care would benefit me as a nurse and my patients and their families.

I recall my first introduction to Parish Nursing. After receiving my Master's Degree in Pastoral Counseling in 1993, I was asked to be on a committee for Parish Nurse Ministries in Worcester. I loved the concept of integrating the body, mind and spirit within the setting of a church community so I was happy to accept the offer. At this time I was a hospice nurse soon to become a bereavement coordinator. From there I went on to become coordinator of an assisted living community. Finally, in 1998 I accepted the position of parish nurse here at Saint Mary's.

The past seven years here have been for me so meaningful and rich for me. The people of St. Mary's, the Health Cabinet, the Pastoral Council and the staff have been helpful and supportive in so many important ways. I feel privileged to have been an integral part of this dynamic body of people.

No program such as this can be a success without the support of the leadership in the parish. Father Paul, our pastor and teacher has been instrumental in fostering the healing ministry of mind, body and spirit. Both he and Father Dennis have helped me to be an instrument of God's peace and healing.

I am very happy with the progress of the health ministry here at St. Mary's and the programs that we have been able to institute. There is more to be done and I am confident that the person who follows me will be able to continue and add to the ministry as the needs of the community dictate. It is with a sense of gratitude as well as sadness that I say "good-bye" to all of you. I will be leaving my position here at the end of July. I am filled with emotion as I reminisce about my years among you. Thank you for being who you are!