St. Catherine’s Episcopal in Chelsea will offer free health care screenings on at the church on Sunday, Feb. 12 from 1 to 5 p.m. According to Rev. Eric Mancil, volunteer doctors, optometrists and dentists from Cahaba Valley Health Care will be onsite to offer check-ups, dental education and nutritional education.

“Cahaba Valley Health Care has set up certain afternoon sessions at different locations throughout the year, where people can come and get these screenings done. St. Catherine’s is one of those places,” Mancil said.

During the event, guests will be able to have their blood pressure checked, receive preventative dental care and undergo vision testing. Referral services will also be available for children.

Interpreters will also be present for those who do not speak English.

Mancil said he expects that the free health screenings will be a good way for St. Catherine’s Episcopal to minister to the community.

“I think that part of our role as a church in the community is to provide opportunities for people to not only care for themselves, spiritually, but also physically,” Mancil said. “If we’re able to serve as a location where people can do that, we see that as a ministry of the church.”

Mancil said the event will also be a good resource for members of the community who might not have access to health care otherwise.

“People might not be able to afford it or covered through their personal insurance, and they might find benefit for that. It also raises an awareness of the need to have things like blood pressure screenings, dental screenings and vision tests,” Mancil said.

According to Mancil, participation is not just open to church members, and all members of the community are invited. Mancil said up to 60 guests can receive free screenings, and making reservations is encouraged. However, walk-ins will also be welcomed.

To make a reservation, contact the church’s office by sending an email to secretary@stcatherinesal.com or calling 618-8367.