< Back to Press
Release Archives
..............................................................................................................................................................................................
For Immediate Release
Contact: Teresa Lyles Holmes
Email: tholmes@balmingilead.org
Phone: 212-730-7381
The
Balm In Gilead Encourages Churches To Speak Out Against Stigma
Website Campaign
To Assist Churches In Planning World AIDS Day Events
New York, NY–October 21, 2002 — The Balm In Gilead, a non-profit, non-governmental
organization with an international mission to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS throughout
the African Diaspora, launched a website campaign for World AIDS Day. The international
theme for this year's World AIDS Day, Sunday, December 1, 2002, is "stigma
and discrimination." The Balm In Gilead, through its website,
will support Christian communities and encourage them to speak out against AIDS
stigma and discrimination.
"Stigma and discrimination have destroyed more individuals and family
lives than the actual HIV virus," says Pernessa Seele, CEO and founder of
The Balm In Gilead. "The church has a major role to play in dismantling the
prevailing belief that AIDS is a sin. The Christian community worldwide must lead
the fight in tearing down the walls of fear, silence and denial throughout our
global village."
Over the past fourteen years, The Balm In Gilead's pioneering achievements
have enabled thousands of churches to become leaders in HIV/AIDS education by
providing comprehensive educational programs and offering compassionate support
to all people living with HIV/AIDS. Today there are thousands of congregations
that are on the front line of addressing HIV with effective outreach education
programs, HIV testing programs and a multitude of services to support persons
living with HIV and affected family members. These congregations are role models
for all communities of faith to join the fight against HIV/AIDS.
On Sunday, December 1, 2002, congregations throughout the African Diaspora
will speak out against the stigma of HIV/AIDS and educate their communities on
issues regarding HIV prevention, treatment and care. The Balm In Gilead will support
these congregations by providing through its website and toll free number, resource
materials, which includes HIV/AIDS liturgical resources, HIV/AIDS facts, E-card,
historical sermons on HIV and a collection of videos and printed materials. In
addition, congregations can get assistance in planning AIDS education programs,
prayer vigils and other events to commemorate World AIDS Day.
Churches planning World AIDS Day events and wish to receive free resource materials,
go to www.balmingilead.org/wad02 or call
888-225-6243.
###
..............................................................................................................................................................................................
< Back to Press
Release Archives
|
