World Aids Day

Tomorrow is the 20th World Aids day, and it always falls apropriately during the beginning of the Advent season. We remembered it at SoulSpace by inviting someone from the 'OUR' project to share with us during the service about the work that they do. James Taylor is the project manager of the centre which provides support for over 150 local peaple affected by HIV and AIDS. He came not knowing what to expect, what a lovely, brave guy. The Australian was pleased to see several of his clients in the congregation, and if he felt ill at ease with the Christian worship - he didn't show it!

He gave us hope that at least with modern medicine, people with HIV and AIDS could now expect to live as long as everyone else. The problems however, are making sure that medication is available to those throughout the world, and working hard to prevent the increase in the spread of infection. On top of this, those with HIV and AIDS face huge discrimination - James talked of three people he knew that had lost there jobs since September this year.

We pray for those living with HIV and AIDS, for the families who have lost members to this disease. We pray that the church supports those affected, and does not join in with their persecution. We pray for the OUR project, for workers like James and Wellington, surround them with hope and joy in this Advent season.