As Dr Dixon has stated, the global situation for AIDS is very serious. Previous issues of Footsteps have looked at practical concerns and information on this subject. However, there are now a great many excellent resources available – some of which are listed on the resources page. So in this issue we have instead chosen to highlight the need to work together at all levels, both in supporting people with AIDS or in educating people about the situation. The subject is an enormous one, but by combining our efforts, we can make a difference. The words chosen as their motto by CANA (Christian AIDS/HIV National Alliance), a network of Christian organisations across India, provide an inspiration for all of us:
… to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair for the display of his splendour… Isaiah 61:3.
Isabel Carter