In 2000, we were pleased to welcome our first Parish Nurse, who heads the Parish Health Committee. Shirl serves as a valuable member of the pastoral care team by regularly visiting church members in hospitals, nursing homes and private homes. She has been instrumental in educating the church and community on various health issues, including holding Breast Cancer Awareness and Osteoporosis Workshops. Other members of the committee include a registered nurse, registered dietitian, and registered pharmacist. Our faith calls us to heal as Jesus did, restoring people to wholeness.
Healing is as much of a part of parish life as is teaching and preaching.
With this in mind, The Parish Health Committee strives to mobilize parishioners to care for themselves and for one another. Each spring, a 5 mile walk is held in Harrisonburg. A team from Manor Memorial participated last year, and feet willing, will do so again in 2001. Civic organizations and businesses throughout Shenandoah County gather together during Memorial Day Weekend for a 20 hour non-stop relay, a team event to fight cancer. It is an event that is packed with fun, laughter, exercise, and emotion.