October 18th, the third Sunday in October, has been designated as St. Luke Day. This has been an important day for many parish nurses and others in health ministry. But why?

Luke was a Greek and a Gentile. We know he was the writer of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. Luke was an evangelist and a physician. He was identified by Paul as the “beloved physician” (Colossians 4:14). He is known as the patron saint of physicians and surgeons. What does this have to do with parish nursing?

Luke’s gospel demonstrates sensitivity to reaching the Gentiles and to sharing the Good News while caring for their physical needs. The parable of the Good Samaritan is found only in the Gospel of Luke. The Gospel of Luke also tells us about the widow of Zarephath, Naaman the Syrian, and the healing of the 10 lepers.

Luke’s Gospel has six miracles and 18 parables that are not found in the other Gospels. Luke’s Gospel addresses the poor and issues of social justice. It gives special recognition to the women in Jesus’ life, and it gives first importance to God’s mercy and forgiveness.

When we read Luke’s Gospel we are given a glimpse into his character. Luke loved the poor, respected women, wanted all to know about God’s kingdom, and shared the hope which we have in God’s mercy for everyone. When everyone else had deserted Paul in his final imprisonment and suffering, Luke was the only one who remained with him (2 Timothy 4:11). Luke served God and man.

Parish nurses, like Luke, serve God and man. Like Luke, parish nurses are concerned about the poor and down-trodden. We serve anyone and everyone as did St Luke, and share God’s mercy as we reach out with his love through acts of compassion. Parish nurses, like Luke, provide the ministry of presence, and we serve in team ministry to those who have dis-ease in body, mind, or spirit.

Prayer: God, you are the Great Physician! I come before you with praise and thanksgiving for all the blessings you have provided. I thank you for the opportunity to serve you and your people through the vocation of parish nursing (or other health ministry). May I always share your healing love through my words and my deeds. Forgive me for the times I have failed to be your willing servant. May all I do be to your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Marcia Schnorr, EdD, RN

Faith Community Nurse, ANA Certified

Coordinator, Parish Nursing (LCMS)

Chairperson, Lutheran Parish Nurses International

Marcyschnorr2009@gmail.com