Legislators Forum on AIDS (LFA) in partnership with Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) & Kohima Baptist Pastor’s Fellowship (KBPF) conducted HIV & AIDS advocacy with pastors and church leaders at NBCC platinum hall on September 24.
A press release from LFA-Nagaland state consultant, Dr. Vinito L. Chishi stated that, Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho, general secretary NBCC in his introductory speech shared that the working relationship of NBCC and LFA was coming to an end soon. However, the challenge put before the church must continue, he said, through education, counselling and providing care. With the increasing trends of HIV in Nagaland which is now 1.15% and it is likely to go, he said that the church cannot shy away but must face the challenge head on, using every means the church have.
He said, for many years LFA has channelled the major fund through the church but now church must also invest time, resources and develop a ministry particularly targeting the HIV & AIDS prevention and care programme.
He further said that reaching out to those in need of help, a lending ear, a caring word, is the Christian social responsibility an must correct the flawed theology and practices that equate sin with disease and put compassion over correctness.
He also thanked LFA led by Dr. Vinito L. Chishi and the staff for taking their responsibility sincerely and connecting with the church.
Earlier in the programme, Dr. Vinito L. Chishi and Hukatoli also gave small presentation on what church can do and Nagaland HIV & AIDS scenario respectively.
Altogether 48 church pastors and leaders from different churches participated at the programme. Benediction was given by Dr. Kevichalie Metha, president KBPF.