Giants - They Do Fall

Every once in a while, I hear a story about group courage that amazes me. This is one. You may ask, "why does this belong in a blog focused on AIDS?" Well, to me, the church has the potential to be a healing force in the war on AIDS. In fighting stigma, when a church steps out and says "we will love you no matter what", we should find that more people have the courage to be tested and that HIV medications are worth taking. Churches can form a community and another source of connection - which, in turn, encourages many to take care of themselves because they feel valued. Churches can also do the opposite and unfortunately have from the many stories I have heard from people in my journey. There is a growing number of reconciling communities in the Methodist church (my Saint Mark is one) but when one arises from a conservative base and had to deal with a force of of hate from within, I consider them special and they have earned a place in my heart. While it is sad that being "loving" has to be hard, it is worth every step to get there. Congratulations and thank you, little Dunean UMC. You are very brave and will likely receive backlash now that the word is out. Be strong and remember: Giants. They do fall.

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