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More About This Ministry
In response to the spreading HIV/AIDS pandemic, the people of the Archdiocese
of America and the Metropolis of San Francisco under the blessings of His Eminence
Archbishop Demetrios of America and His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony, the Presiding Hierarch of the Metropolis of San Francisco, through
its Commission on AIDS Ministry, discern a need for ministry to those affected.
The mission of the Diocese Commission is to love and serve those with HIV disease,
their families and friends, in ways that heal fear, overcome isolation, and support
basic human needs.
The goal of this mission will have three underlying objectives
- To enable and develop a broader HIV/AIDS ministry throughout the Diocese.
- To raise the level of knowledge and awareness about the nature of HIV disease as it affects all aspects of human life.
- To advocate for the needs and rights of those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.
The activities of the Commission
- Provide necessary education and information.
- Referrals to appropriate agencies and ministries.
- Speakers Bureau.
- Establishment of the "Hospitality of Abraham" -- an Orthodox house of prayer, sacrament, spiritual counseling, respite, and hospice care.
Pastoral Concerns
- Issues of shame, morality, sexuality, guilt & fear.
- Isolation & Secrecy.
- Loss of employment, housing, health insurance, family and friends, and a future.
- Fear that he/she may infect another person.
- Questions like, "why is this happening to me?" "Does this mean
God does not love me?" "Is this because of something I have done?"
"How will I ever get through this?"
The Pastoral Response
- Provide support, love, care, kindness, compassion, strength,
comfort, and healing.
- Offer a closer communion with God and an active life in the
church: prayer, confession, communion, and healing services.
- Educate to eliminate injustice, ignorance, and discrimination.
- Advocate for health care and other social services.
Other Resources
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