Why The United Methodist Church Cares about HIV & AIDS

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I have the honor of serving as Chair of the United Methodist Global AIDS Committee (UMGAC), an inter-agency effort addressing HIV & AIDS since 2004. Every now and then, people will ask me “Why do you spend time on HIV & AIDS when people with HIV are living longer, treatment is available and people aren’t dying as often?” On the surface, this might seem to be a valid question, but this issue is not as simplistic as that. In the United States and other developed nations, great strides have been made in HIV diagnosis and treatment, and it is true that death rates in the United States have decreased. When looking through that narrow lens, it might make sense to label this issue as “solved.”

But, let’s dive deeper. Stigma continues to impact those living with HIV or AIDS. Recently, we heard from a young HIV+, gay man in Tennessee who had visited several United Methodist Churches only to experience rejection due to his status. HIV+ people in some developing nations can be arrested and/or, certainly, shunned by their communities and churches.

Stigma results in a fear of being tested, which has, in part, resulted in 7.1 million people worldwide unaware they are living with HIV. Globally, over 38 million persons are living with HIV or AIDS. (Source: UNAIDS) In spite of progress in developed nations, the infection rates in economically challenged countries on the globe have not abated. This calls us to be even more committed to our education and advocacy efforts.

December 1 is World AIDS Day. This is a wonderful time to take action on behalf of those who are infected with HIV or AIDS and affected by the viruses. Here are some ideas:

  • Support the work of the United Methodist Global AIDS Committee through its education and advocacy initiatives. To contribute, click here.
  • Donate to the Advance Special in The UMC supporting projects around the globe address HIV & AIDS and intersecting issues. To donate, click here.
  • Explore ways in your local church and community about how to be welcoming of all God’s people.
  • Pray for those living with HIV or AIDS and the people who love them.
  • Join UMGAC’s virtual World AIDS Day Worship Service on December 1 at 12 PM ET/ 1 PM CT. To access, go to https://www.facebook.com/umcglobalaidsfund/

Thank you. Your help will save lives!

Bishop Julius C. Trimble serves as resident bishop of the Indiana Area. This post is republished from the General Board of Church and Society website.