Anglican Communion News Service

The Anglican Bishop of South Sydney, Robert Forsyth, has called on church members not to forget the many people mourning the loss of loved ones from HIV/AIDS virus in their midst.

Speaking on Worldwide AIDS day Bishop Forsyth said, "We have progressed a long way from the negative social stigma the ADS virus once held largely due to public education campaigns.

"These sorts of programs must continue if we are to combat the AIDS virus and lead the world in limiting its devastating effects," he said.

One such program in the community is the AIDS link program run by Anglicare NSW, the welfare arm of the Diocese of Sydney providing spiritual and practical support to Christians with HIV/AIDS and their families

Bishop Forsyth commented that since 1997 there has been a ten- percent increase of those living with the HIV/AIDS virus worldwide.

'It is now estimated that more than 25 million Africans are HIV positive and 700 thousand new cases of HIV in ex Soviet Union Countries are linked to the increase in heroin usage and the decline of social services.

'1 am concerned ~ hear recent reports outlining the increase of cases of AIDS among the heterosexual community in Australia, with one in six new cases of HIV being heterosexual.

"These statistics should warn Australians to refrain from complacency and realise we must take a coordinated community approach to control the virus.

Bishop Forsyth said the Church had a special part to play in offering care and support for individuals and their families who suffer from the effects of AIDS.

'Jesus was never afraid to reach out and touch those who society saw as dangerous or infected.

"As Christians we follow this example and must reach out through our church community to love those who are suffering and to share with them a message of hope."