Die erediensgebed en MIV/vigs
Abstract
Prayers in the worship service and HIV/Aids
It seems as if most churches are still – to a great extent – not seriously involved in the problems of the HIV/Aids pandemic, and that prayers in the worship service for people suffering from HIV/Aids are few or even totally absent. The extent of the pandemic is overwhelming, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. The needs and the suffering of Aids patients in terms of the physical, psychological and social aspects of their lives are likewise radical. The stigmatisation of Aids is far-reaching among all the population groups and forms the source of degradation and loneliness experienced by HIV-positive people. Churches should thus bring this suffering before God in prayer. Prayer is a communicative action in the worship service, but it is much more than communication; it is communion with the almighty God. In his communion with people praying to Him, God gives them strength to bring about a change of heart and attitude towards those for whom they are praying. Guidelines are suggested for focusing on HIV/Aids too in the elements of doxology, thanksgiving, humbling and prayers during the worship service. The conclusion arrived at implies that occasional worship-service prayers focusing on HIV/Aids can have a definite influence on the congregation’s attitude towards, their involvement with, and their active care for people suffering from HIV/Aids.
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- Faculty of Theology [980]