May 2008

What the Church Can Offer with HIV/AIDS Retreat

This year marked the 16th Annual HIV/AIDS Retreat at the Kanuga Conference Center in Hendersonville, NC, Sponsored by Province IV of the EPiscopal Church, Province IV Network of AIDS Ministries, the National Episcopal AIDS Coalition, and individual churches and donors throughout the region.

Over the years, there have been changes in the demographics of the people who attend. Although statistics are not available for the early years, a high percentage of white males were present, most people who came could afford to pay, and there seemed to be a large number of Episcopalians there. In 2007, there were still more males (65%) present but only 39% were white, with the remainder primarily Black/African-American (56%). Also, 82% reported receiving financial assistance to attend. These statistics are in keeping with the epidemic, which now significantly impacts populations of color and low-income individuals. Episcopalians at the retreat now make up about 14% of those attending with the remainder being from many different denominations, the highest percentage (38%) being Baptist.

In the earlier years, there were more people in wheelchairs and those who had visible signs of the effects of the disease. Now, we have more people who give the appearance of good health and for this we are grateful. Many have medical problems that are serious but not necessarily visible. Others have wounds of the heart, which cause serious suffering but may be well hidden.

The HIV/AIDS retreat at Kanuga provides a time and a place for people to feel safe and to know that they are loved by God and by those who journey with them. It’s a time to learn (in 2006, we learned about forgiving; in 2007 we learned how to share our own story and hear other people’s stories). It’s a time to cry, to sing, to praise and to laugh. In a world where cruelty and rejection are all too common, this retreat is all about kindness, acceptance and worthiness. It is necessary; it is timeless.

Perhaps it can best be described by some of the attendees:

“I had a wonderful, blessed time. The fellowship was invaluable, the teachings and the hope overwhelming.”

“Kanuga has provided an opportunity for me to reflect and meditate on the direction my life-journey will continue. I truly believe this weekend was a catalyst toward a spiritual healing which will take me ever closer to the peace I so desire.”

“I really enjoy myself and I am sure I am a changed person who has been to the mountaintop and have better protection for myself when I enter back into the valley.”

“I was lifted up and my holy feeling came back.”

“This was my 6th year and every time has filled my life with so much joy. I look forward to next year.”

Even after more than a quarter century, the Church still has much to offer those whose lives are impacted by HOV/AIDS. The Church can provide opportunities for GOD’s love and compassion to be shown to those who live with the stigma of HIV/AIDS every day, many of whom are beaten down by the burdens it has brought their way. The Church can lift people up and show them that they are loved by God with a love equal to his love for any other person in the world. That thought has the power to transform. It has the power to heal. We in the church have the power to offer opportunities for wholeness. May we continue our work with faith and determination.