Church leaders recommitted to supporting their members in life sharing groups during our most recent workshop for members.

One hundred and seven people running Grace & Light life sharing groups in almost 30 churches joined us for a day of sharing, discussion and encouragement in mid-August.

These pastors and action committee members support over 500 people who have been open with their HIV/AIDS status and joined life sharing groups in churches in and around Jos.

International coordinator Tassie Ghata led the discussions around issues of Christians in the workplace, corruption, wealth and poverty, how Christians are to treat other people, gender and sexual violence.

She said: “We had lots of input from participants sharing with each other their experiences and how they feel. Their members are no longer hiding their HIV status, are living more positive lives and being supported by the church leadership.

“They are also now able to talk about the day to day issues of corruption and poverty with their members.

“One pastor said that he had been unable to talk about sexual issues from the pulpit. But our visit had encouraged him to preach openly from the scriptures and his congregation was now willing to listen.”