World AIDS Day

It was an honor to observe World AIDS Day by taking part in a service of remembrance at Celebration Community Church this evening.

Thank you to Jorene Taylor Swift and the Celebration Community for its courageous your o going and courageous witness.

And thank you to Jane Rogers for reminding us of the roles strong advocacy and activism played in getting the resources needed for breakthrough research and treatment.

Friends, HIV/AIDS patients continue to need our voices to assure access to affordable medication for all and to one day, hopefully, find a cure for this disease. This is one small way we show repentance for the sins of our society’s silence, negligence, and contempt.  Another way is by raising our voices in support of the full rights and inclusion of LGBTQ persons in our country and world.

As we go forth committed to the works of mercy and justice, may the words of the Departing Prayer I was asked to lead serve as our guide:

“O God of love, whose mercy has always included those whom we have forgotten, bless, we ask, all who are afflicted with AIDS. Comfort them, sustain them by your Holy Spirit, that they may engage in life with the joy that is their birthright.

“Holy One, open our hearts to provide for their needs, to share their journey, to love them with our whole hearts. Bless those who mourn the death of their loved ones. May they know your comfort and the blessings of community as they grieve.

We pray in your many names. Amen.”