During July the Jos schools team visit two contrasting schools where pupils were equally open to the gospel and to know their HIV status.

At both schools students were predominantly from high income families with Christian parents. They had regularly attended church since they were tiny and knew of God but didn’t have a personal relationship with him.

Because of their parents’ protection, they were less likely to be exposed to sexual predators. However, they were no different from other teenagers in that they were happy to lie to their parents, teachers and each other to get what they want.

“After our talk, they said they now understand what having a relationship with God is all about and are willing to live according to his standards. We were pleased to hear this,” said international coordinator Tassie Ghata.

A girl at one of the schools did test positive for HIV, she had been receiving antiretroviral drugs but didn’t realise what they were for. When Tassie spoke with the family she discovered the mother had died in an accident and the daughter, who was injured, had been given a life-saving blood transfusion. The family believe this blood was tainted. The daughter is now receiving ongoing counselling through Grace & Light.

The Jos teams visited two schools during July, sharing the gospel and social righteousness with 1,574 students, testing 358 and offering life sharing at one schools. At this school, 127 chose to be open with their status and join life sharing groups, 281 rededicated their lives to Christ and 35 made first commitments.