Equipping Parish Nurses in Ethiopia
On Saturday, January 3, 2026, a group of nine LCMS Lutherans from across the United States, including six parish nurses, embarked on a 16-day trip to Ethiopia. The purpose of the trip was to train Ethiopian RNs to become trainers for the Parish Nurse Program in Ethiopia. This program was initiated by the Master Builder Center in collaboration with the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus, the fastest growing Lutheran denomination in the world, and in working relationship with the LCMS.
These nine participants were enthusiastic about the opportunity to share their God-given gifts in service to the Lord and His people—especially in ways that prevent illness, minimize the effects of chronic disease, and emphasize whole person health and wellness in body, mind, and spirit. The Parish Nurse Program will serve as a link between available healthcare and the faith community, becoming a bridge to the poor and most vulnerable who need medical care. This pilot initiative aims to expand nationwide over the next five years.
In Ethiopia, healthcare access remains a significant challenge, especially for the poor and those in rural areas. There is less than one doctor per 10,000 people (compared to 30 doctors per 10,000 in the United States), and access to essential medications and supplies is limited. Mothers walk miles to reach clinics. Children suffer from preventable illnesses.
A three-day Train the Trainer workshop was presented January 10–13, 2026, at the Hosanna Synod (district) in Southern Ethiopia. Seventeen synod presidents were represented. Forty-six nurses and three physicians completed the training. Each was presented with a certificate of completion and pinned by a member of the team—welcome to these new Parish Nurse trainers.
At the conclusion of the course, the team also presented six 50-pound suitcases of medical supplies, donated by LCMS congregations in the United States, to the Ethiopian Parish Nurse Ministry.
Team: Dr. Marcy Schnorr; Doyle Del Bosque; Mary Hume; Nick and Dianne Weber; Sylvia Baker; Dr. Jean Mau; Dr. Edmond Holroyd; Dianna Bonfield; Rev. Dr. Tilahun Mendedo.
by Diane Weber
Coordinator for Southeastern District Parish Nurses
A Conference for Parish Nurses
For 34 years, leaders in parish nursing and congregational health ministries have gathered nationally to strengthen this work. This year’s conference theme is based on Deuteronomy 5:33.
Please consider attending—or keep this gathering in your prayers. Questions? Contact Carol Lueders Bolwerk, PhD, RN at Carol.lueders.bolwerk@cuw.edu.