NURSE AS HEALTH MINISTER, THE

Chart, Nov/Dec 2003 by Dahm, Janet, Cukr, Penny, Denny, Mary, Diaz, Cissy, Et al

Indeed, dual degree programs did emerge. In addition to Loyola's MSN-M.Div with the Institute of Pastoral Studies, North Park University now offers the dual competency program, MSN-MA degree, in partnership with the North Park Theological Seminary. Additionally, North Park offers a certificate in Faith and Health and on-line programs of continuing education as well. Rush University also developed a certificate in Spirituality and Health.

Many changes have taken place since that fateful 1991 meeting. Nursing literature in spirituality has expanded significantly. New faculty have come to share the dream and the seminar series itself has been reformatted into two seminars rather than three. The College of Nursing, University of Illinois-Chicago has generously provided a consistent site so that students can gather from all parts of the city to a central location. The nature of the series, however, continues to fashion itself after the intent of the original organizers. The series is unique in that demonstrates a multi-disciplinary and collaborative effort on the part of seven nursing universities in the Chicago-land area, with common enthusiasms and engagements despite differences of faith traditions and professional specialties. The participating schools and practitioners invited us to their worlds of scholarship and practice. We became a community of co-learners interested in enhancing our knowledge of spiritual care and health ministries. We learned that Nurses wish to reclaim their spiritual rootedness for their own practice. Approximately 300 students have participated in the seminar series since 1992. Those generous partners who for these past eleven years have shared with us their special expertise and commitment to the life of the Spirit are acknowledged with gratitude. You have enriched our lives in countless measure.

Authors of Health Ministries article:

Penny Cukr, Janet Dahm, Mary Denny, Cissy Diaz, Linda Edwards, Gloria Henderson, Tom Mainor, Bill Myers, Bob O'Gorman, Mary Ann McDermott, Marilyn O'Rourke, Kathleen Shanks, Lynda Slimmer, Janice Smith, Ann Solari-Twadell, Joan Zetterlund, Mary Chase Ziolek.

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