The congregation
outside the church building
December the 1st is World Aids Day and in keeping with
the rest of the world the New Apostolic Church in Mpumalanga South,
under the supervision of Bishop Milazi, held a candle light ceremony
at the Kromdraai church.
It has
been years since the dreaded HIV virus made its appearance and ever
since a cure has remained elusive. Amid all the confusion, theories
and counter theories about the origin of the virus and the
scampering to find a remedy, thousands worldwide are succumbing to
the deadly virus on a daily basis. Children are orphaned and
countless are affected.
It is
common knowledge that Sub-Saharan Africa is the most affected region
in the world with South Africa being one of the worst hit countries.
Recent statistics indicate that out of six HIV positive people in
the world, one is a South African.
The
candle light ceremony held at the Kromdraai church has been
organized to raise awareness about the epidemic. What is worrisome
though is the fact that a few youth in the Kromdraai congregation
already have children, a situation which somehow indicates that all
the talk about HIV and Aids is yet to turn into positive action.
Sister
Fikile Mokoana from Kwazanele in Breyton, an AIDS counselor, was
invited to address the members. In her address she explained the
facts about HIV and AIDS, the causes thereof, and what one can do to
prevent being infected with the virus. She emphasized that everyone
in attendance had a role to play in curbing the spread of the virus
and also influencing those infected to lead a positive life.
Bishop
Milazi added by stating the stance of the church regarding HIV/AIDS,
which is to encourage individuals out of wedlock to abstain from sex
and those in marriage to be faithful to their partners. Proceedings
on the day were concluded with a candle light ceremony in
commemoration of those who lost lives due to the epidemic.
