Persecuted for Praying

February 10th, 2009

You may have read this week about a Christian community nurse from Weston-super-Mare who has been suspended for offering to pray for a patient’s recovery.  

Caroline Petrie, 45, who qualified as a nurse in 1985, says she asked an elderly woman patient during a home visit if she wanted her to say a prayer for her.  The patient concerned did not complain, but a colleague, on hearing about this, complained to North Somerset Primary Care Trust, who suspended her without pay on 17 December.  She was waiting to find out the outcome of her disciplinary meeting this week, but on Thursday they invited her to return.  However, the PCT stated that the initiative lies with the patient, not with the nurse, to ask for spiritual support.  

Caroline and her family have been worshipping at Milton Baptist Church, Weston, for 9 years.  The Senior Minister, John Smith, says that she seeks to live out her faith 24 hours a day, 7 days a weeks.  She became a Christian following the death of her mother.

‘My faith got stronger and I realised God was doing amazing things in my life.  I saw my patients suffering, and as I believe in the power of prayer, I began asking them if they wanted me to pray for them.  They are absolutely delighted’. 

Caroline has always insisted that she has never forced her beliefs on anyone. 

I have sent Caroline our love, support and encouragement.  It is sad, but true, that to live out our lives following Christ is becoming harder and more of a challenge each day.  

David Thatcher
 

Filed under: Thought of the Week