Petition Text: 20237-GJ-NonDis-O

Understanding Petition Numbers

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Whereas, The Book of Resolutions 1988 pp. 101-2 reads, "In the spirit of the One who makes all things new, who empowers the people of God for ministries of healing and hope even in the midst of a frightening epidemic, The United Methodist Church and its members are called to respond to the epidemic of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome by engaging in ministry, healing and social responsibility consistent with the Church's understanding of the Gospel imperatives";

Therefore, we recommend that the Sunday closest to Valentine's Day be declared as the annual Aids Awareness Sunday. It will be a time to open our hearts and show our love to the men, women, and children most affected by the AIDS crisis---persons with AIDS, persons who are HIV positive, and their families, friends and care givers--as we learn more about the church's ministry and responsibility in the midst of this pandemic.

Furthermore, during this service, we recommend those churches place a permanent candle of hope and healing on their altars, doing so as a permanent reminder of our Christian witness to people with AIDS, and other incurable illnesses, and if a church is unable to observe AIDS Awareness Sunday on the date suggested, it may choose another Sunday for its observance.

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Petition Text: 20237-GJ-NonDis-O
1996 United Methodist General Conference