Whereas, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is fast becoming the number one health problem in the world; and

Whereas,  tens of thousands of Americans have contracted AIDS, and more than a million Americans are carriers of the AIDS virus, and for those who have contracted AIDS, currently there is no known medical cure, thus making the disease fatal; and

Whereas,  in general, AIDS patients are cloaked in silence so that both patient and caregivers are often isolated and bereft of any succor; and

Whereas, legislation and the best efforts of our public health officials are severely limited in their effectiveness, while our Christian faith offers supportive hope for those stricken with AIDS; and

Whereas,   our Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 25:35-40 has established a basis of compassionate ministry to those in need and unable to fully provide for themselves;

Therefore,  Be it Resolved that this Advent Christian delegate body go on record as endorsing the biblical directives for helping to curb the spread of AIDS in that our faith calls for chastity before marriage and fidelity in marriage (although we recognize that not everyone who has AIDS has contracted it through sinful channels such as illegal drug use or illicit sex); and

Be It Further Resolved that our churches be encouraged to exercise Christian compassion by promoting Christ’s offer of redemptive love, by praying God’s abundant grace upon those afflicted with AIDS, and by rendering loving assistance to both patients and their caregivers; and

Be It Further Resolved that copies of this resolution be sent to every Advent Christian church and pastor that together they might become God’s implement to bring wholeness to those whose brokenness is so painful.  (Note:  Also to be sent to affiliated institutions per GC 93-60)