Deaconess Nurse Ministry: One Nurse’s Story at Main Street Church in St. Charles, Mo.

“Our congregants do not always face the same challenges as others in the metro area,” says Nurse Darla Speck, an R.N. with Deaconess Nurse Ministry in St. Louis. “They have income and housing stability with access to the medical care and services they may need. Therefore, my role as a faith nurse at Main Street Church [in St. Charles, Mo.] is different — it’s about working with the pastors and elders to identify more inconspicuous needs and coming alongside individuals to provide assistance as needed.”

The concept of a parish nurse was unfamiliar to Main Street Church members when the ministry began in 2014. However, it was inspired by a visit from Pastor Hon, who witnessed the impact of a Deaconess Nurse Ministry parish nurse during a pastoral visit to a member’s family. He saw the profound difference this nurse, Linda Stoecklin, made at Immanuel UCC in Ferguson, Mo., and wanted to bring that same level of care and ministry to his own congregation. Over the past decade, the faith nursing ministry at Main Street Church, under Speck’s guidance, has evolved, adapting to changes in healthcare, technology, and the needs of the congregation. “Flexibility is vital,” Speck explains. “Early established programs that met many needs had to be let go, and new ways implemented.”

The faith nursing ministry led by Nurse Darla is multifaceted. A group of professional individuals within the church — including a pharmacist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, behavioral therapist, doula, dietitian, memory care expert, and RNs with various specialties — serve as an educational resource team. They contribute to initiatives like online meal schedules for families with new babies, those recovering from illness, or those undergoing long-term treatment. The ministry also provides practical support such as diaper and wipe showers for new parents, child protection policies and training, and first-aid education for the church’s security team, including CPR and AED training.

Beyond education and support, the ministry fosters community and care. Monthly senior citizen lunches, end-of-life care, Bible class support, prayer requests, and visits to shut-ins are just a few examples of the ways Nurse Darla and her team touch lives. One meaningful tradition is the Memory Christmas Tree, which includes ornaments for families to display in remembrance of loved ones. “Whether it’s obtaining medical equipment through STL HELP, delivering child-made crafts to a local skilled nursing facility, or simply holding space for someone dealing with trauma, the work of this ministry is deeply needed,” she says.

As she reflects on her work, Nurse Darla often draws inspiration from Luke 5:17-26. In this passage, friends of a paralyzed person work together to bring him to Jesus, lowering him through a roof to receive healing. “I know I cannot do it all alone,” Speck says, “but am I doing what I can to help carry the mat?” This question guides her ministry, reminding her of the power of teamwork, creativity, and faith in bringing people closer to the healing love of Christ.

Through her dedication and the support of the congregation, the faith nursing ministry at Main Street Church continues to grow and transform lives, shining as a beacon of care, compassion, and faith.