African-American churches are getting involved in a week-long observance of prayers for the eradication of HIV/AIDS among people everywhere.

The 15th Annual Black Church Week of Prayer for the "Healing of AIDS" will be observed March 7-13. In Columbia, the initiative will begin with a reception at 5 p.m. Sunday, March 7, at the Second Nazareth Baptist Church at 2300 Elmwood Ave.

The weeklong international observance focuses on prayer for the elimination of HIV and AIDS among African people all over the world as well as brings Churches together to share understanding of the effect the disease has had. It also encourages churches to implement education, prevention and support programs.

Since 1989, The Black Church Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS has been an important catalyst for educating, empowering and mobilizing over 15,000 churches to provide AIDS education to their congregations and communities.

Today, The Black Church Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS is among the largest HIV/AIDS awareness programs targeting African communities with an estimated reach of over 200 million church members worldwide.

This year the awareness campaign crosses borders into Africa, mobilizing churches on the mother continent to educate people about HIV/AIDS, care for our sisters and brothers affected by the disease and prevent its further spread.


How To Participate In The Week Of Prayer For The Healing Of AIDS?

Suggestions for making AIDS education the focus of your worship experience:

· During worship, offer a special prayer for the healing of AIDS -- its impact on our family and community and throughout the global village.
· The pastor can deliver a compassionate and informative sermon on HIV/AIDS and the role of the church.
· Include AIDS facts in your Sunday bulletin and/or distribute AIDS education brochures from your local AIDS service organization or health department, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or from The Balm In Gilead.
· Include a discussion on AIDS education in the church school program at every age level.
· Work in partnership with a local health care provider to provide on-site HIV testing after worship and encourage members to get tested.

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Suggestions for educational activities you can provide at the church during the week:

· Host a church conference on AIDS for the community.
· Conduct an AIDS prevention workshop for youth and/or adults.
· Host a treatment and care workshop for persons living with HIV/AIDS and their families.
· Host an educational workshop on mother-to-child transmission and prevention.
· Host a "Get Tested" workshop to educate church members/community on the importance of knowing one's HIV status, and to address the fears and stigma about testing.
· Host a workshop on mobilizing volunteers for AIDS service.
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For more information on the The 15th Annual Black Church Week of Prayer for the "Healing of AIDS" please visit: www.balmingilead.org
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