Photo credit: Albin Hillert/WCC
In a heartfelt and urgent discussion, Bishop Regen Luna, an INERELA+ ambassador from the Philippines, sheds light on a pressing issue affecting the nation: the high prevalence of HIV within the LGBT community, particularly among men …
Breaking the Silence: Combating HIV Stigma in the Philippines Read More »
Photo credit: Albin Hillert/WCC
Introduction
In May of 2000, my world changed forever. I tested HIV-positive. The news hit me like a storm, and I knew instantly that this wasn’t something I could hide or bury deep inside. I had …
My Journey of Faith, Fear, and Founding an HIV Network Read More »
Photo credit: Hymie Sokupha / WCC
This article examines the inspiring work of Christian leaders in Southern Africa who are tackling the critical issue of violence against marginalized communities, especially LGBTQI+ individuals. Their approach, rooted in a deep understanding of …
Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC
A Call for Collective Action
This piece explores the complex relationship between the church, HIV/AIDS prevention, and gender-based violence (GBV) mitigation. It emphasizes the need for collective action and pragmatic solutions while advocating for both spiritual and …
The Role of the Church in Addressing HIV, AIDS, and Gender-Based Violence Read More »
Photo credit: Gregg Brekke/WCC
In a time when global awareness of social inequalities is at its peak, conversations about sexuality, faith, and human rights have never been more critical. The World Council of Churches – Ecumenical HIV & AIDS Initiatives …
Photo: Marcelo Schneider/WCC
I often find myself grappling with questions that challenge traditional religious teachings. One of the most profound questions I’ve faced is: Why would God create people with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities if such expressions were …
Embracing Diversity Through the Lens of Faith Read More »
Photo credit: Georgina Goodwin/WCC
Introduction to INERELA+
INERELA+ (International Network of Religious Leaders Living with or Personally Affected by HIV and AIDS) is a powerful coalition born out of necessity in Africa. In 2002, eight religious leaders, including the video …
Fighting HIV Stigma and Empowering Change Through Interfaith Leadership Read More »
Photo credit: Gregg Brekke/WCC
This article explores the unique approach of the Our Whole Lives (OWL) program, a comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) curriculum developed through a partnership between the United Church of Christ (UCC) and the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA). …
Bridging Faith and Comprehensive Sexuality Education Read More »
Photo credit: Ivars Kupcis/WCC
For faith leaders and LGBT activists, advocating for inclusivity within religious institutions is an ongoing battle. This article explores how harmful biblical interpretations can be challenged to create more welcoming spaces for LGBT individuals.
Many religious …
Challenging Harmful Interpretations: Creating Inclusive Religious Spaces Read More »
Photo credit: Paul Jeffrey/WCC-EAA
Transforming Stigma into Support—Faith Communities and the HIV Response
In a world where science, health, and spirituality intersect, faith communities have emerged as powerful forces that can either challenge or perpetuate stigma, particularly concerning HIV and …
Transforming Stigma into Support—Faith Communities and the HIV Response Read More »
