World AIDS Day
December 1

Read:
Matthew 8:16-17

Explain:
It is estimated that 45 million people are living with HIV/AIDS, 14 million of whom are orphaned children. The stigma surrounding this disease impedes efforts to prevent it and to provide care to those who have it. Many communities around the world refuse to talk about HIV/AIDS or to acknowledge that it exists among them. People with HIV/AIDS may be shunned by their families, evicted from their homes, or denied housing, employment, or health care. They may even suffer physical violence. While there are drugs that can now help control the disease, 95% of those living with HIV/AIDS do not have access to these drugs. World AIDS Day has been observed since 1988 to focus on the continuing challenges posed by the AIDS epidemic.

Pray:

• Give thanks for the progress that has been made towards understanding how to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS.
• Pray for those who are living with HIV/AIDS, as well as for their families.
• Pray that the stigma surrounding this disease will be overcome.
• Pray that AIDS drugs will be made available to everyone who needs them.