With a theme of “Caring for Our Spirit,” more than 25 parish nurses from throughout the Diocese of Camden gathered recently at Marianist Family Retreat Center in Cape May Point. Bonded by the mission to care for the body, mind and soul of those in their parish communities, they met for a day of reflection, prayer and fellowship.
Recognizing the paramount need of self-care and care for the spirit, the annual retreat began with Mass followed by a discussion led by Nicole Keefer, RN, BSN, director of parish nursing for VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services of the Diocese of Camden.
“Recognizing that there are joys and challenges in all of our work as ministry members and leaders is crucial,” she said, telling the nurses that they are not alone in their ministry.
Several parish nurse coordinators shared their joys and challenges of the ministry, with the consensus being that oftentimes, many joys come after some of the most challenging moments.
Father James King, pastor of the Parish of Saint John Neumann in North Cape May, spoke about a retreat as a “strategic maneuver” – one necessary to reflect, prepare, plan and renew. He encouraged the group “to come and stay with Jesus” in order to go out and be a reflection of Christ. He urged the healing agents to “bring [your] encounters with Jesus to the people.”
The day also included a reflection and blessing from Deacon Jerry Jablonowski, executive director of VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services, who thanked the parish nurses for their continued devotion to the ministry. He reminded all to take care of their own spirit, just as Jesus did for Himself.
The day concluded with time for personal prayer around the grounds of the retreat house. “Today was good for my soul,” were the departing words of one attendee.
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