Concordia University Wisconsin welcomed parish nurses, pastors, lay ministers and congregational health leaders from across the country May 13-14 for the Annual Parish Nurse and Congregational Health Ministries Conference on the Mequon campus.
Centered on the theme “Living Well,” the conference invited attendees to reflect on Deuteronomy 5:33: “Walk in obedience to all that the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.”
Over two days, participants explored what it means to care for the whole person through Christ-centered health ministry, worship, fellowship and evidence-based learning. Ninety attendees representing 19 states gathered for the conference, underscoring its continued national reach and impact.
“The theme, ‘Living Well,’ was impactful as many sessions focused on wholistic health in mind, body and spirit,” said Dr. Carol Lueders Bolwerk, director of Parish Nursing and Congregational Health Ministries at Concordia University Wisconsin. “Presenters integrated a biblical framework with recent research evidence in serving others in congregations across the country.”
Caring for caregivers
The conference opened with chapel and continued with sessions emphasizing whole-person care, self-care for caregivers, and encouragement for those serving in demanding ministry roles. Discussions highlighted the importance of recognizing compassion fatigue and burnout while helping church workers and health ministry leaders remain grounded in their own spiritual well-being.
Attendees also reflected on the legacy of longtime conference contributor Rev. Dr. Dan Paavola, whose involvement in the parish nurse conference spanned two decades. Paavola passed away earlier this year.
Keynote presentations shared current best practices and emerging research in health care ministry, while exhibitors and partner organizations, including the LCMS and American Heart Association, provided resources to support congregational care initiatives.
“As parish nurses develop programs and activities, they emphasize wholistic health, especially the intentional care of the spirit,” Lueders Bolwerk said.
Strengthened through fellowship
In addition to professional development, the conference created meaningful opportunities for networking and collaboration among ministry leaders serving in diverse church and community contexts.
“This conference offers not only evidence-based information along with resources from the LCMS, American Heart Association, and others, but also networking opportunities with others across the United States,” Lueders Bolwerk said. “Sharing their church ministries helps others in developing programs for their own churches and communities.”
Many participants also found spiritual renewal during their time on campus through worship, singing, prayer and fellowship with fellow Christian caregivers.
“Many parish nurses report that they are inspired and refreshed in their own spiritual journey with chapel and worship, singing and presenters,” she added.
The conference reflects Concordia’s mission as a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students and servant leaders develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.
Looking ahead
This event will continue next year as Concordia welcomes attendees back for the 35th Annual Parish Nurse and Congregational Health Ministries Conference on May 12-13, 2027, on the CUW campus.
Centered on the theme, “Beyond the Pews: Nurturing Wholistic Health in Mind, Body and Spirit,” the 2027 conference will reflect on Galatians 5:13: “Serve one another humbly in love.”
The conference is sponsored by Concordia Plans, Lutheran Parish Nurses International, CUW and the LCMS.
Those interested in learning more or serving as presenters are encouraged to contact Dr. Carol Lueders Bolwerk, conference chairperson, at Carol.LuedersBolwerk@cuw.edu or 262-243-4233. Potential presenters are invited to submit a topic idea and title by Oct. 1.
Want in?
Rooted in a mission of Christ-centered service, the School of Nursing at Concordia University Wisconsin prepares both new and experienced nurses for meaningful careers in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape. Through flexible online and hybrid pathways—including MSN, MSN-DE, DNP and post-master’s certificates—Concordia equips nurse leaders who combine clinical excellence with compassion, integrity and a commitment to whole-person care.