Announcing Clergy Leaders in Health Ministry!

submitted November 01, 2010 by Matthew Ellis EMAIL TO A FRIEND 29 COMMENTS Share/Bookmark

"On the day that I was commissioned [as a parish nurse], my Rector preached a sermon on "The Feast of Florence Nightingale"...all about dedication, service and love."

"He reaches out to the homeless by having our parish hall open during the day."

"He listens to my ideas and treats me as a full fledged member of the church staff. I cannot begin to tell you how my ministry has grown due to his encouragement."

These are just a few of the comments we heard from people expressing their gratitude for the support and leadership of their clergy. We will be posting the text of all of these submissions as comments to this blog post. If you would like to add your experiences with a member of clergy who has been particularly supportive of your ministry, I encourage you to do so. 

NEHM is making this recognition an annual event, so please be sure to watch for next year's announcements!

Let's celebrate these wonderful leaders in our church and our ministry!!

2010 Clergy Leaders in Health Ministry

The Rev. Kathryn Andonian, Church of the Holy Spirit, Harleysville, PA
The Rev. Scott Barron, St. John's Episcopal Church, Mt. Prospect, IL
The Rev. Dr. John Belzer, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Shawnee, OK
The Rev. John Branson, Christ & Holy Trinity Church, Westport, CT
The Rev. James Braun, St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, Kenosha, WI
The Rev. Michael Burke, St. Mary's Episcopal Church, Anchorage, AK
The Rev. Jon Coffey, St. Mark's Episcopal Church, Jacksonville, FL
The Rev. Dr. Donald Henry Kortright Davis, Holy Comforter Episcopal Church, Washington DC
The Rev. Tommy Dillon, St. Aidan's Episcopal Church San Francisco, CA
The Rev. David Elsensohn, St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Sitka, AK

The Rev. Charles Fels, The Church of the Good Shepherd, Knoxville, TN
The Rev. Scott Fisher, St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, Fairbanks, AK
The Rev. Webster Gibson, Christ Church Winchester, VA
The Rev. Polly Ann Glanville, Diocese of OH, Akron, OH
The Rev. Michael Herman, Trinity Episcopal Church, Bay City, MI
The Rev. Joe Hermerding, St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Baton Rouge, LA
The Rev. Beth Hixon, St. Martin in the Fields, Philadelphia, PA
The Rev. Jeremy Hole, Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Gainesville, FL
The Rev. Dr. John Houch, Saint George and Matthias Episcopal Church Chicago, IL
The Rev. Larry Jackson, Trinity Episcopal Church, Parkersburg, WV

The Rt. Rev. W. Michie (Mike) Klusmeyer, Diocese of West Virginia, Charleston, WV
The Rev. Canon Brien Koehler, St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Baton Rouge, LA
The Very Rev. Tracey Lind,  Trinity Cathedral, Cleveland, OH
The Rev. Dcn. Cindy Long, St. Matthew's Church,  Sacramento, CA
The Rev. John Major, Prince of Peace Episcopal Church, Dallas, PA
The Rev. Joyce Matthews, Christ Church, Cranbrook Bloomfield Hills, MI
The Rev. Dr. J. Mastine Nisbett, St. David's Episcopal/Anglican Church, Cambria Heights, NY
The Rev. Mary Piotroski, St. Andrew's, Sedona, AZ
The Rev. Thomas Reeder, Christ Episcopal Church, Williamsport, PA
The Rev. Roberta Ring, Grace Episcopal Church, Ft. Wayne, IN

The Rev. Ann Ritonia, Christ Church, Winchester, VA
The Rev. Mark Robinson, Trinity Episcopal Church, Cleveland, OH
The Rev. Daniel Rondeau, St. Margaret's Episcopal Church and School, Palm Desert, CA
Deacon Sheila Scott, St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Amarillo, TX
The Rev. Anne Elizabeth Swiedler, St. David's Episcopal Church, Roswell, GA
The Rev. William Terry, St. Anna's Episcopal Church, New Orleans, LA
The Rt. Rev. Charles vonRosenberg, Diocese of East Tennessee, Knoxville, TN
The Rev. Scott West, Christ Episcopal Church Blacksburg, Blacksburg, VA
Deacon Reese Wiggins, St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Baton Rouge, LA
The Rev. Steven Wilson, Grace Episcopal Church, Carthage, MO
The Rev. Elsa Worth, Grace Episcopal Church, Trumbull, CT

29 Comments

Maureen Redmer, RN Parish Nurse
November 02nd, 2010 2:18pm
I originally submitted my comments about my pastor, Pr Joanne Skidmore, earlier in Oct & was on vacation when the email was sent about the glitsch in the nominations process & did not resubmit in time. I'd just like to say that Pr Joanne has been an incredible support to the PN ministry & me personally since I became PN at St John the Divine, Burlington, WI in Feb 2007. Our parish is "small but mighty" & thanks for the most part to Pr Joanne's leadership the community outreach is pretty incredible for a church of our size. She truly challenges and supports the church family to "walk the walk not just talk the talk" and I am privileged to be a part of the St John the Divine church family. It's plain that there are many wonderful priests and churches who strongly support health ministreis and we are truly blessed.
Thanks to all of you & esp. Pr Joanne.
Maureen Redmer, RN Parish Nurse
The Very Rev. Tracey Lind, Dean of Trinity Cathedral, Cleveland
November 01st, 2010 6:24pm
Our cathedral nurse, Terrie Doboze, is fabulous. She reaches so many people every week. I honestly don't know how she does it. Folks talk to her about everything from diabetes prevention, to weight management, and elder care. Our health and wellness ministry, led by a volunteer team of health professionals is working hard to promote 360 congregational wellness. Between walking, diet, and exercise programs as well as education and medical screenings, we're getting healthy in Cleveland, Ohio.
The Rev. Kathryn Andonian
October 30th, 2010 3:30pm
Advocates regularly for this ministry, has made recommendations for improvements and partnerships in the community, acknowledges the importance of mind and body as well as spirit and supports our sharing this ministry with others in the diocese.
The Rev. Scott West
October 30th, 2010 3:30pm
Since becoming a Parish Nurse at Christ Episcopal Church in Blacksburg, I have felt very supported by Rev. West. He made me feel welcome by developing an Induction Service during one of our services, making me a member of the staff, promoting physical and spiritual health in the parish by helping me to promote programs and adult forum on Heath and Spirituality. He has even arranged with the vestry to provide a small stipend/honorarium for me each month to help with expenses of visiting, sending cards and providing materials for parishioners. Scott has been particularly helpful by promoting and participating in our "Walks to Jerusalem" and "Walks to Bethlehem" held during the Lenten and Advent seasons. When the Rector takes a lead in promoting health, it seems more important to the congregation. He is a wonderful advocate for health in our parish and very worthy of nomination during Clergy Appreciation Week!
The Rt. Rev. W. Michie (Mike) Klusmeyer
October 30th, 2010 3:29pm
Bishop Mike has supported Health Ministries in the Diocese in a number of important ways. The Health Ministry Commission has a line item in the budget. We are supported by clerical and supportive services of the outstanding Diocesan Staff. For the past several Diocesan Conventions, we have: provided a forum on "Health Ministries Within Your Congregation", coordinated a Health Fair, provided a report to the convention body incorporating "energizers" (simple stretching exercises - which have received high ratings!), coordinated an exhibit at convention, he has provided us with meeting space, use of a conference call line, diocesan email listserve and prayers!
The Rev. Dr. J. Mastine Nisbett
October 30th, 2010 3:28pm
The Rev. Dr. J. Mastine Nisbett has supported Health Ministry since he started his ministry at St. David's 25 years ago. He supported the development of a nurses' guild, a family support group (which began as bereavement support);and an exercise program in the church. He, himself includes health issues in his sermon and he mentions his own exercise regimen. Very importantly, St. David's has been a congregational member of NEHM.
The Rev. Scott Barron
October 30th, 2010 3:28pm
The Rector of our Church, St. John's Episcopal,is the perfect example of what a pastoral priest should be. The Rev.Scott Barron, as well as being our Rector, is also a Hospice Chaplain, offering his special talents to those in need of comfort and guidance. He is there to give whatever solace and strength he can provide for the families. When the end comes to his patients he considers it a privilege to be present at the time of death, a uniquely intimate moment. Such is his compassion that he is often asked to officiate at their funeral services. As a member of the Breast Advisory Board at a local hospital he invited the head of the breast center to speak to our congregation about the importance of early detection. Also showing his leadership he stepped in to assist a family from Burundi who arrived with 3 children, one of whom was in need of immediate medical attention. Father Scott stayed with the family, at the hospital, the entire weekend providing food, transportation and translati
The Rev. John Branson
October 30th, 2010 3:27pm
For providing support for a parish nurse and a health ministry in his parish.
For making a commitment to liturgies such as The Longest Night in December and weekly Healing Eucharists on Wednesdays.
For being a wonderful pastoral presence and teacher of that gift to his pastoral care team.
The Rev. Elsa Worth
October 30th, 2010 3:26pm
For her recovery ministry and monthly Recovery Eucharists on Friday evenings.
The Rev. Mark Robinson
October 30th, 2010 3:26pm
Mark has been in various forms of health ministry for years as well in the present. He is Canon of Missions. Mark has been a strong supporter of our Diocesan Health Ministry Task Force. He supports us via his compassion, listening but also makes suggestions when needed, advises us and if he does not know answers he will check it out.
The Rev. Steven Wilson
October 30th, 2010 3:25pm
My priest has been instrumental in all aspects of my ministry. He listens to my ideas and treats me as a full fledged member of the church staff. I cannot begin to tell you how my ministry has grown due to his encouragement. I work at least a 30 hour week, many weeks more. I credit the many areas of my involvement in the parish activites are due to his encouragement and validation of the importance of my work.
The Rev. Beth Hixon
October 30th, 2010 3:24pm
She organized a health ministry to Guatemala and has been working to energize a health ministry at St. Martin's. She was instrumental in the establishment of Stephen Ministry, has been responsible for Pastoral Care and continues to support health ministries in Guatemala with a diocesan committee. She is also a registered nurse/clinical nurse specialist.
The Rev. Canon Brien Koehler
October 30th, 2010 3:24pm
Fr. Koehler has helped by being a listening ear, finding financial resources for special programs and events, and supporting the programs of Health Ministries at St. Luke's through announcements, publications, and his physical presence at events.
The Rev. Joe Hermerding
October 30th, 2010 3:23pm
Fr. Hermerding has provided referrals to Health Ministries for parishioners, and together we have worked to provide pastoral care. He has also been a strong shoulder to lean on, and an ear to listen when I have been hurting. His compassion and understanding are very much a gift to all.
Deacon Reese Wiggins
October 30th, 2010 3:23pm
Deacon Reese has supported Health Ministries by his gift of showing compassion and care to all. His leading of the Shawl Ministry Retreat was a huge gift, and his insights on caring and bringing God's love to others are always lessons for me.
The Rev. Jeremy Hole
October 30th, 2010 3:22pm
Fr. Jeremy's pastoral presence as a member of the Holy Trinity Health Ministry reflects Christ's compassion and grace. He is a leader on our Health Ministry team who respects the professional members and their skills and expertise. We had a group study of a leading nursing ethics text to help him better understand what we had to offer. He was a full and willing participant in this effort, acknowledging the benefit of the results to both himself and the team.
The Rev. Jon Coffey
October 30th, 2010 3:21pm
I recently became the Paris Nurse for our church. Not only did I have full clergy support, on the day that I was commissioned, my Rector preached a sermon on "The Feast of Florence Nightingale"...all about dedication, service and love. He also developed a theological statement for the newly developed Health and Wellness Council so that we were sure to be on the same page with our mission. It was truly touching and over the top!
Deacon Sheila Scott
October 30th, 2010 3:21pm
Sheila is the parish nurse for St. Andrews. She has worked diligently serving on the Health Ministry Cabinet and helping to teach the Parish Nurse Preparation Course.
She is due some recognition!
The Rev. Dr. Donald Henry Kortright Davis
October 30th, 2010 3:19pm
This rector and parish are being nominated for the work that they are doing to partner with Howard University Hospital to arrange for a Health Fair for both parishioners and the local community. This Fair, held on October 16, 2010 provided essentail medical screenings (Dental, Prostate, Glucose, Body Fat, Cholesterol, HIV, Vision, Diabetes, Blood Pressure, Memory, and Wellness & Weightloss) as well as other activities for Health Education and Screenings.

This effort must be recognized for its value!
The Rev. William Terry
October 30th, 2010 3:19pm
Fr. Bill's insight and eagerness to "do the right thing" was the catalyst behind our Medical Mission program. His constant support of both the project and staff keep us going!
The Rev. Kathryn Andonian
October 30th, 2010 3:18pm
Rev. Kathy fully advocated for and supported the creation and growth of a Health Ministry Team and a Faith Community Nursing initiative. This has included supporting trainings, conference attendance and budget necessary for programming
The Rev. Anne Elizabeth Swiedler
October 30th, 2010 3:17pm
She is a wonderful example of mercy and grace in all she does. Anne Elizabeth is well beloved at St. David's, provided tender and compassionate pastoral care and is extremely supportive of the Parish Nurse.
The Rev. James Braun
October 30th, 2010 3:17pm
Fr. Braun has been very supportive in starting our Health Ministry program. He is always open to new ideas and helps to promote them in any way he can.
Rev. Dr. J. Mastine Nisbett
October 30th, 2010 3:16pm
Father Nisbett has been an ardent supporter of heatlh habits and health ministry. Our church had a congregational membership and we have had health ministry more than 15 years.
The Rev. Michael Herman
October 30th, 2010 3:16pm
Father Mike initiated Trinity's monthly "Health Sunday", at which time a team of nurses takes parishioners' blood pressures and serve as resources for health awareness at coffee hour after services. Fr. Mike even pitches in at times since he is also a registered nurse!

Also, under his direction, the church now has an A.E.D. and instructions on its use with CPR classes given by a church member/fireman.
The Rev. Scott Fisher
October 30th, 2010 3:15pm
In 1999 Scott encouraged us to begin our health ministry program and has supported every activity that we have undertaken. He allows Sunday programs in worship and after services. He reaches out to the homeless by having our parish hall open during the day and we are the only downtown church that does that. He is concerned about the health and welfare of all that come through the doors. In his own quiet way he ministers to everyone, whether or not they come to church.
Reverend Thomas Reeder
October 30th, 2010 3:14pm
He has supported the development of a parish nurse program from the start. He supports any of the educational activites I offer by attending or participating as a leader.
Rev. Dr. John Belzer
October 30th, 2010 3:14pm
The Rev. Dr. John Belzer has recently retired as Educational Director of the Dept. of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oklahoma. For 20+ years, he was responsible for training medical students during their geriatric rotation, teaching them healthy aging by pairing them with active older volunteers. He taught a range of subjects such as interdisciplinary teamwork, spirituality & aging, end-of-life issues, ethics, and aging disability sensitivity training. He also was responsible for the annual Summer Geriatric Insitute, which drew a variety of professionals in health, community and social services. See related information on www.ouhsc.edu/okgec
The Rev. Deacon Cindy Long
October 30th, 2010 3:13pm
Cindy, as a RN and a Deacon, has developed a health center at St. Matthew's that serves the needy in the church's neighborhood. This program is highly successful and serves more people every year. She continues to serve at the clinic and also recruits and trains volunteers to assist.

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