Parish nursing has emerged as a specialized professional nursing practice in the past 10 years. Nursing literature addressing the functions of the parish nurse role in a faith community or congregation has become more prevalent in recent years. However, there is very little literature that examines the role of the parish nurse (PN) in a program leadership position. The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study is to describe the role and functions of the parish nurse coordinator (PNC) charged with leadership of a group of PNs networked together as a PN program. Specifically, this article highlights the demographics of PNCs across the United States, what they value most about being a PNC, and the challenges they experience in this leadership role. Findings are examined in light of their potential for contributing to the growth and development of nursing leadership that incorporates the spiritual dimension.
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