Spiritual ministries that give people guidance in living with HIV

A traditional pillar of African American communities, some Black ministries have created special programs for those living with HIV and AIDS, providing vital spiritual support and guidance.

Such programs are not new: the Black Church National Day of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS and the Annual Harlem Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS are examples of two ministries that have been part of African American churches since the early 1990s.

How do churches help? HIV/AIDS ministries can offer valuable forms of support, letting community members with HIV and AIDS know that they are part of a social and spiritual network. Congregation and clergy members also help to promote AIDS awareness through education and prayer.

Find an HIV/AIDS ministry near you, via the Black Church HIV/AIDS Network (http://www.balmingilead.org/pams/map.asp).

Concerned about your HIV status? Talk to your doctor.