Church discusses HIV/AIDS awareness

THE use of condoms as a measure against the spread of HIV/AIDS was at the heart of discussions at an inter-denominational workshop at the Lutheran church headquarters at Ampo, Lae, yesterday.
The three-day workshop, themed “Channels of hope”, was organised by the World Vision for workers of the Lutheran church’s seven departments.
When the participants had their say on condoms, organisers deduced that the main weapon against the spread was “from individual heart”.
“One makes up his or her own mind whether to do it or not, it’s his or her future.
“People have to make wise judgment.
“We can make healthy decisions to avoid HIV/AIDS rather than to promote condoms which could be used to promote promiscuity and prostitution.”
Lutheran social concerns director Pastor Sere Muhuyu said the training was purposely to give the participants concepts to align their programmes and teachings using Christian principles.
“As people of faith, we have to recognise how God is calling us to respond to stigma, because it affects family and our society,” he said.