Scan June Sept08

June & September 2008

INSIDE

For Private Circulation only

CANA on Empowering Christian Community

1 CANA On Empowering Christian Community 2 Editorial 3 Message From The New Director 5 Fellowship Dinner 6 CANA Programs 8 World AIDS Day 10 News From Partners 12 Call For Every Christians To Act 13 Viva India Cutting Edge - 2008 13 Feedback 14 Reflection 16 Case Study 17 CANA Board Members 17 Global AIDS & HIV Estimate 18 Networking and Strengthening Christian Community 19 Global HIV Consultation-Churches Living with HIV

Theological Trainers’ Consultation on 26 - 28 August 2008 at CNI Bhawan, New Delhi

C

hristian Ministry in the context of HIV&AIDS is a challenge in India because of the growing spread of the pandemic and the myths associated with it. Unless people who are involved in Christian Ministry are trained systematically we cannot expect the Church leaders and others involved in Ministry, to enter into meaningful engagement with people affected and infected with HIV&AIDS. It is also very important to equip the theological students who are trained to take Christian Ministry as fulltime vocation, to understand the intensity of crisis it causes to people living with HIV&AIDS. To address this need, a new course outline on HIV&AIDS was developed in a consultation of theological trainers that was held in

Delhi from 26-28 Aug 2008. This new course 'Christian Response in the Context of HIV&AIDS' will be offered in thirty colleges from this academic year 2008-2009. The consultation not only facilitated developing a new course outline, but also build the capacity of theological trainers to understand the pandemic and train their students successfully to enter into a meaningful ministry with HIV infected and affected families. Theological Trainers from various colleges worked together to finalise a common course outline that is relevant to the Indian HIV&AIDS context. This course will be taken by theological Continued on p7

.................................................................................................................................................. ...developing people by developing responses...

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

Copyright

C

2008 CANA

Am I spreading hope instead of fear? Disclaimer: The views expressed in the articles do not necessarily represent those of CANA and some of the articles have been edited for space and technical appropriateness.

2

...........................................................................................................................................

June & September 2008

A family of five was found dead in Mumbai. Parents, a Tamil film distributor and his wife after poisoning their three children (aged 7 to 11) committed suicide. News report says, the husband and wife were both positive with HIV. And when they noticed their three children were also positive, they were disturbed and depressed. What made them to poison their children and commit suicide in city of Mumbai where HIV/AIDS counseling testing and guidance centre are comparatively better? Many organizations are working with such individuals. ART is available in public hospitals. Still…? Sheer stigma and discrimination due to HIV and resulting in fear and guilt. Why such hopelessness and hostility? Situation is no different in villages like Kendrapara where making a mockery of campaigns to educate the public about AIDS, villagers at Baulokani in the district has subjected a HIV infected woman to social ostracizing under the notion that the disease is air-borne. This requires our attention as it poses serious concerns on how we are working and how far we have to go. Are we reaching the last and least? Are we responding to needs of an individual to experience His wholeness and life in its fullness? I am afraid; we are trying to provide biomedical solutions to HIV/ AIDS. We need to recognize this is an issue of justice and violation of rights. They have the right to be treated, to be heard, to be listened to. Issues of access and equity in terms of care and support need to be seen. If our involvement does not address problems of social and ethical dimensions from the perspective of justice and rights, our `care and support' would be far from `to be Christian care' .We need to be passionate and concerns about care and support sharing hope and giving future. The greater danger, as said is stigma and discrimination associated with the disease. How can we ensure beauty instead of ashes, and add hope and hospitable climate to those infected and affected. Are we feeling challenged? The calling of Jesus and mission of CANA calls us to be different. How new models of engaging community with care and support to HIV/ AIDS affected person can be developed. We need to be pioneering and innovative yet thoroughly Christian in attitude and practice. Our response at personal and community level are equally important as we work towards networking for improving impact by promoting promising practices. Each one of us must have the burden and responsibility to care for the marginalized with a difference. I hope the CANA partners and network members can work together towards de-stigmatising the disease through care and compassion. May Our Good Lord continue to use each one of us to realize His mission to bring healing to the nation. Dr Shailendra Awale Interim Director

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

June & September 2008

Praise and Glory to the Lord Jesus Christ. It is our privilege to Honour the God of Abraham (Gen. 12:1-3); the God of Isaac (Gen. 25: 21-24); the God of Jacob (Gen.27: 27-29); the God of Moses (Gen.28:13-15); the God of Joshua (Josh. 1:1-11); the God of David (1st Chron. 17:16-27); the God of Solomon (IInd Chron 7: 11-22); the God of Ezra (Ezra ch.7); the God of Nehemiah (Neh 1: 4-11); the God of yesterday, today and the days to come; the God of our forefathers, our fathers and the God of ours, the God of nations, the God of our nation-India and its future, we are here to Praise our God, the Lord Jesus Christ.

land, David dreamed of making a temple to worship you Lord, and you have made Solomon to construct the temple. But because of the disobedient, keeping your law away- you have given them it to the hands of their enemies. Ezra brought your people back to your Law; and Nehemiah built the walls back. Same way today as CANA, as a body of larger Christian Communities and Church in India today, we commit ourselves to bring the people back to the Law, the biblically driven life style, and build the walls of the Church, Christian homes, families and individuals, which was taken control over by the “ruler of this universe”- the enemy.

We serve you Lord with fear and rejoice and with trembling as CANA family, and we ask you Lord, give us this nation India (Psalm 2:8); as our inheritance, the ends of the earth as our possession, and we all join with King David, continue to praise you “ O Lord with all our heart, and tell all the wonders. We will be glad and rejoice in you and we will sing praise to your name “Jesus Christ”, O Most High (Psalm 9:1-2).

Because we have deviated from the Law of the Lord, we lost most of our Glory of the Church, the body of Christ in India, which was dreamed of thousands of missionaries, who came to this country in the past centuries. We have a history of the “Church” the one and only contributor of the human development advancement in this country, whether it is in the field of Education, Health and Social Development, standards of life and the life styles- the Church has modeled in this country, and the rays of hope for India’s development was brought in all walks of life. The mission compounds, cathedrals, mission hospitals, were the “city centers” and functioned as “town halls” and missionaries, mission doctors and teachers were role models of the society. People has seen and experienced that “any development is incomplete with out Christ”

You have promised Abraham the Chosen Land, Moses led your people out of bondage, Joshua led them in to the promise

We allow the enemy to take possession over us, not only due to our ignorance, but also because of our disobedience, rebellious

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

3

June & September 2008

attitude, rejection of the Lord, and compromise Christian Faith with the world. Our agreement to make thinks “normal”; we have supported too many practices of the world. Christian values are deteriorated, ruined and many Christian families and homes are scattered. Christian professionals end up becoming advocates of divorce, abortions, same sex marriages and so on…Our Children are seldom inspired and see active role models and unable to withstand the contemporary pressures. Today’s India is expecting to see Jesus in us. “St. Paul’s and St. Johns” are becoming the Trademarks to promote products, than to promote the principles. This is the time to introspect as a Christian Community, as a Church, and as a Christian, how much we have deviated ourselves from the “Law of the Lord”. We need today more and more Nehemiah to rebuild the walls and Ezra to bring back the Christian Communities back to the Law of the Lord. So that we and our Children and the Generation ahead can be protected from the enemies. Let us join together to build the Church. Let us come together to Confess our sins (Neh. 9); Bow before the Lord and worship Him and make an agreement between us to re-build the Church- its role here for this nation. Only Church is the “hope for the nation, hope for the millions of suffering, hope for the infected and affected with HIV/AIDS. Only He gives life to everything and the bank of the living water flows from His throne has a Healing (Rev.22:2). Let us declare “All infected, affected and discriminated has a place in Him and the Church has a hope for dying and the hope for the living with HIV/AIDS” and proclaim “Jesus Christ, the Lord to heal the sick, sustain the life and the eternal life and hope beyond the death”. We claim back what belongs to us in double fold and in multifold. We as a CANA family, as a Church body

4

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

believe that, the Lord will send miraculous signs and wonders (Neh. 9:9) against this Pharaoh (today may be in the name of “AIDS”) that we fight. CANA family trust in Him that it is not by power, not by might, by His Spirit will happen soon. We build on the foundation of the apostles and prophets with Christ Jesus himself as the Chief Cornerstone (Eph. 2:20), and as we experienced the oneness in Christ, through the blood of Christ, we want to expand the territory of the Church, so that all those physically “uncircumcised” may also come and have the same Fellowship with us in Christ Jesus that we enjoy, though the blood of Christ and access to the Father by one Spirit. For this “healing of this nation” to take place, the recommended solution given in 2nd Chronicle 7: 14: “if my people (Christians), who are called by my name (Jesus Christ), will humble themselves and pray and seek my (the Lord Jesus Christ) face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their Land (India). As I have given this great responsibility as a Executive Director of CANA, I humble myself before my Lord, and I would urge all of you to take this opportunity to extend your association with CANA, the friendship, the fellowship, the membership, and faith, and professional relationship and the potential partnerships for further networking and programming. Let us together commit to prevent the infection, promote the health and the wellbeing of the infected and affected individuals, and families and be a witness to Christ in times like this with devastations and vulnerability due to HIV/AIDS, as well the floods and persecution of Church on the other hand as well. We look forward to hear from you. S. SAMRAJ Executive Director

June & September 2008

Mr. S. Samraj, the new Executive Director of CANA was installed with a prayer of dedication on August 27th, 2008 at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. The programme began with an informal get-to-know session led by Dr Shailendra. All CANA friends got an opportunity to get to know many friends who are either partners or well wishers or network friends. The formal programme began with a prayer led by Mr. Devesh Harish Lal (Network Coordinator of Patna, Bihar). UBS students lead in singing and the gathering was welcomed and the new Director, Mr. S. Samraj was introduced by Dr Shailendra, the interim Director of CANA. Mr. S. Samraj was honored by flowers. Mr. Sundar Daniel, the SecretaryCANA Board welcomed the gathering consisting of network members, well wishers, staff and participants of Theological Trainers Consultation. Ms Sunita, Finance Officer, CANA read Is 62 1-5 from Bible and Rev Dr Santosh George, Consultant CANA gave message on Challenges and possibilities of reviving

the Biblically based mandate of CANA. The New Executive Director Mr. S. Samraj, in his response shared his vision for CANA. He also challenged the gathering on the need of Biblical based initiative to address the pandemic HIV&AIDS. He alerted the friends of CANA to join hands to extend care and support to the affected and infected people in India. He also emphasized that the Christian values and principals to impart to the families and to our children and translate in to action by every Christian professionals clergies and lay persons. Dedication prayer was led by Rev Margaret Kalai Selvi of Madurai (Tamil Nadu) and the dedication was lead by Dr Shailendra, Fr Dr Reji Mathew, Dr Rozouselie and Rev Santosh. The new Executive Director was given a Bible, “AIDS and YOU”, the book written by Dr. Patrick Dixon and Red Ribbon was put by Ms. Vinita Bahadur on him and was distributed to all the participants. On behalf of CANA, Ms Christina thanked all the friends for their continued support and presence during this meeting at Habitat centre. This was followed by fellowship dinner.

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

5

June & September 2008

Value Based Sex Education CANA is focusing on providing “Value Based Sex Education” in various schools in India. Curriculum for class 7, 8, 9 & 11 have already been developed. The purpose for this program is to provide correct knowledge to children to bring about behavioral change and to prevent the spread of HIV & AIDS. We believe that education implies right wisdom by right source at the right time. It is important that we educate the young minds before they learn the wrong things through absurd sources. Celebrating Children Celebrating Children is a training course designed to equip people who work with children and young people living in difficult circumstances around the world. The course started when a group of delegates

6

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

during the Viva Network Cutting Edge conference realized that there was a large gap in the availability of training for workers to improve their skills and a real need for more training material to be devised to fill this gap. The course has 8 modules with each module made up of four to seven sessions. The course schedule can be varied to suit participants depending from 2.5 days each month or a full time over one month. Celebrating Children has been running successfully in Cambodia for 4 years as well in other countries. In India, Celebrating Children course was introduced during the month of January 2008 in Madurai and during the month of June 2008 in Gurgaon by VIVA India. CANA in partnership with VIVA India looks forward to introduce this course among its networks members to facilitate the effectiveness of the field functionaries who are working with children in difficult circumstances.

June & September 2008 Continued from p1

students, who will also get practical experience of ministering to PLHA. Ultimate aim of this programme is to enable future leaders to incorporate this area in their ministry so that the entire congregation enters into meaningful ministry with PLHA. Following are the sessions offered during the consultation 1 Basics of Health Dr Anita David, Consultant, Christian Health Initiatives, New Delhi 2 Basics of HIV&AIDS Dr Savita Sanghi, Shalom Delhi 3 Biblical Basis to ministering HIV infected and affected People Dr Razouselie Lasetso, ETC Jorhat 4 Equipping Congregations in facing AIDS Bro Andreas Eicher, Team leader, Jeevan Sahara Kendra, Thane, Mumbai 5 Church, Community and HIV&AIDS Dr Santhosh Mathew, Executive Director, Emmanuel Hospital Association Devotions were led by: 1 Mr Prince David, Country Director, Tearfund 2 Rev CB Samuel, Chairman, Micah Challenge 3 Rev Santosh George, Consultant, Theological Training, CANA The consultation was inaugurated by Rev Dino L Touthang, Treasurer of CANA & Executive Director, EFICOR. Mr Sundar Daniel gave greetings on behalf of CANA board and Dr Shailendra, interim Director led the inaugural session. This consultation is one of the events of a process that CANA has taken up with Theological colleges in India. Now the next step is to document the way this new course would be offered in the Theological

colleges and at the end of this academic year, all these Theological trainers will come together to share their experience of training Theological students and work on the Text book on 'Christian Response in the Context of HIV&AIDS'. CANA intends to publish this book in 2009.

Report of Red Ribbon Network meeting

T

he purpose of Red Ribbon Network meeting is to articulate and translate into action Christian perspectives and responses on HIV/AIDS issues through a collective action of Christian Organizations in Delhi and to be a platform for reaching out to the people living with HIV/AIDS. CANA organized Red Ribbon Network meeting on 4th April, 08 at YMCA auditorium, New Delhi. 22 participants represented 14 organizations for Red Ribbon Network meeting. The resource person Mr. Gordon Claassen took a session on Community Health Education. He focused on holistic health, community based CHE Model, community based program and Church based approach. He gave guidelines for a Church program. According to him, the Church has a vision for evangelism and to minister physically in the community. The Church is concerned with man as a whole and not just his spirit. A lot of practical tips were picked up. The program was beneficial for everyone. Continued on p15

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

7

June & September 2008

According to UNAIDS estimates, there are now 33.2 million people living with HIV, including 2.5 million children. During 2007 some 2.5 million people became newly infected with the virus. Around half of all people who become infected with HIV do so before they are 25 and are killed by AIDS before they are 35. Around 95% of people with HIV/AIDS live in developing nations. But HIV today is a threat to men, women and children on all continents around the world. Started on 1st December 1988, World AIDS Day is about increasing awareness, fighting prejudice and improving education. World AIDS Day is important in reminding people that HIV has not gone away, and that there are many things still to be done. This year to mark the World AIDS Day and to get younger generation observe it meaningfully, Christian AIDS National Alliance (CANA) has planned a series of programme for the students in Delhi. Today’s youth are vulnerable to this deadly disease and there is an emergency need to reach out to the youth with the message of care and love. Our aim is that when the youth pledge to extend care and support, they are already protected from this pandemic.

The theme for World AIDS Day 2008 The theme for World AIDS Day 2008 is: Stop AIDS; Keep the Promise “LEADERSHIP”, highlighting the need for innovation, vision and perseverance in the face of the AIDS challenge. The campaign calls on all sectors of society such as families, communities and civil society organisations - rather than just governments - to take the initiative and provide leadership on AIDS.

8

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

June & September 2008

World AIDS Sunday World AIDS Sunday is being observed on the first Sunday of December every year. It is an opportunity for all Christians to reflect on the ways that HIV and AIDS affect individuals, families, our local communities and churches, and to think about how we can respond to the global pandemic. Every Christian has an important part to play in this observance, either through planning or participating in events in local congregations. In line with this, CANA partners and network members will observe AIDS Sunday at regional and local level.

Resources for World AIDS Sunday EFICOR, one of CANA partners is providing AIDS Sunday resource package to Churches, Christian partners and organizations. The package contains: Order of Worship, HIV & AIDS – Facts and Figures, Ideas for Action, Sermon and Posters. In order to make order for the package, please contact EFICOR at the following address: EFICOR 308, Mahatta Tower 54 B Block, Community Centre Janakpuri, New Delhi - 110058 INDIA Tele Fax :- 91-11- 25516383/4/5 Email: [email protected]

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

9

June & September 2008

Y

MCA Agra along with Christian AIDS / HIV National Alliance (CANA) jointly organized awareness seminar on HIV / AIDS on 9th February 2008 at Diocesan Office Conference Hall, Agra. Prof. S. K. Warne (President YMCA AGRA) welcomed all the guests and the group of people. Mr. Noel Yuhanna (Regional Coordinator CANA - Shifa Network) told about the mission and vision of CANA and the work done by CANA in the field of HIV / AIDS he also threw light on the stats of infected patients in India. One of the main speakers Dr. Mrs. Fatima Hussain- Assistant Director National Jalma Hospital very effectively presented the Power Point presentation on the global problem and guided the reasons and precautions. Another guest speaker Dr. D. K. Agarwal (Deputy CMO, Agra District) told the government initiatives of helping the affective peoples and the medicines used to help the victims. Rt. Rev S. R. Cutting, Bishop of Agra, Church of North India appreciated the works of YMCA AGRA and hope to have more programs. He said, "Now its time to take action in the field of HIV & AIDS as till now we discussed now implement what is discussed in the field".

10

T

he “New Life” network has different organizations and Church leaders. Now some other different Christian leaders and some other cast members join “New Life” network.

of HIV & AIDS only the Jesus Christ is our hope and only Jesus Christ is lover of all type of people. The “New Life” network gives emotional and spiritual support to HIV & AIDS people.

Our “New Life” networks go to poor children and slum area with awareness of HIV & AIDS in Indore district. Our team is not only working in Indore district but they work with the neighbor district. The “New Life” network committees is continuously pray for Indore HIV & AIDS affected people and give massage to affected people

Rev. Virendra Kumar Das (Coordinator of “New Life” Network, Indore)

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

N

agaland Network: On 11th September I was called by a family. It was midnight. Their son was almost overdose by heroin. By God’s grace he was

June & September 2008

saved. I have found 24 grams of heroin which was in his hand and 86 S.P.Capsules (drugs) struggle life and death. With medication he is now improving. This morning one new drug addict joins in our center for detox. We have finished 7 Capacity building training with the Pastor in under Ao Baptist Church Association just last month. It was published in our daily papers also. It was eye opener for many pastors. Our resource persons include two HIV positive Mr.Toshi and T. Jamir. Last two month two new couple came to me for HIV/AIDS counseling. It was painful to see young couple with HIV/AIDS. After counseling I refer them to a care center. I referred one positive boy to a care center but it was too late and he died of AIDS. ART was too late for him. Pastors have requested to continue follow up programs. The participants have decided to have a care and counseling committee in every local church. This is purely my daily experience. Sentikumla, Coordinator of Nagaland Network

U

mmed network is working in Aligarh district on HIV/AIDS both in rural and urban areas of Aligarh. HIV/AIDS awareness meeting organized in 3 local schools in Aligarh for the teachers. Follow up of the pastors trainings on HIV/AIDS has been done to get the feed back from the participants. 1000 Condom distribution done in rural block in Lodha by the support of government hospital. Aligarh rated high risk city for HIV/AIDS in Uttar Pradesh. AIDS awareness meeting conducted in Shajamal for the child Rights project children parents.

Pastor Samuel Coordinator of Ummeed Network

M

ukti network is working in Meerut district for HIV/AIDs both in Urban and Rural areas. The committee distributed 5000 condoms in the red light area for the commercial sex workers in these sessions. Polio booths organized in the sex workers community as mostly resistant was found in this area. Awareness meetings organized in the rural block Rotha for the vulnerable community. Networking meetings held with the government health department for collecting the HIV/AIDS data. Meerut is rated very high risk city regarding HIV/AIDS Mr. Raju Lal, Coordinator of Mukti Network

T

he Patna network is still very new but the members are looking forward for a meaningful and active partnership with CANA. The needs in Bihar are great and the role of the church is of utmost importance to extend a helping hand to the people who are suffering. We urge the members of other networks to pray and support the victims of the current massive and devastating floods which have affected 16 districts of Bihar and a population of around 30 lakhs. Most of our members are now engaged in flood relief activities. If any one is willing to take part in this work they can get in touch of the Patna Network which is willing to facilitate. Mr. Devesh H. Lal, Coordinator of Patna Network Continued on p12

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

11

June & September 2008

Call for every

Christians to ACT India today we see several priorities and concerns that demand and call for each on of the Christian to respond as a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ. CANA family recognizes, as HIV/AIDS concern us in a great deal to act, there is a great need out there. Recently I came across an article by Dr. Aby Mathew of India Mission in Bihar titled “BIHAR IS SINKING ORISSA IS BURNING, SHALL WE AWAKE” a call for every Christians in this Country. The environmental health risks like polluted water, insufficient sanitation, indoor and outdoor pollution, leadpoisoning and climate change affect the health or wellbeing of hundreds of millions of poor people (ref. Rev. Dr. Sebastian Ousepparampil, key note address at the AGBM of CHAI, health action, www.chai-india.org). Few to name are the recent BIHAR FLOODS, the persecution of Churches in ORRISA and KARNATAKA, the fear of insecurity through a series of bomb blasts and TERRORISIM ACROSS THE COUNTRY. This is a call for all Christians to remember the victims, and the troubled families of those entire natural and man made calamities in your personal and corporate prayers. As a Christian let us extend our helping hand to those who are in need. In John 17:4, Jesus says to the Father, “I have brought glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do” and He expects the same today from us. May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing His will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to Him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen

Continued from p12

C

ECS, Dimapur : The Community Education Centre Society working with children in difficult circumstances in Dimapur has received the Governor’s Commendation Certificate from the Government of Nagaland on 15th August 2008. CECS received the Governor’s Commendation Certificate for reaching out to child labour, street children and underprivileged children through various activities and awareness programs like campaigning for child labour, rehabilitation of street children through night shelter and drop in centre. Subonenba Longkumer, Project Director CECS, Dimapur

12

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

June & September 2008

together for children

‘Making Children Visible’ 10 – 14 November 2008 Secunderabad, India

Conference Purpose: The India Cutting Edge Conference will be a meeting place that will inspire effective partnerships between mission leaders, practitioners, theologians and church leaders for children at risk initiatives. The Conference theme is ‘Making Children Visible’. The conference will help the participants to recognise the invisible issues of children at risk and enable them to respond to these issues. The Conference aims to: Connect and make visible the Christian response to children at risk Inspire church leaders for engaging with children at risk Develop a Christian understanding and response to invisible issues relating to children at risk Provide professional learning and resources Develop effective networking and collaborations Provide space for personal inspiration, fellowship and prayer. Contact the Conference Coordinator through Email: [email protected]

FEEDBACK We are happy to inform you that we receive regularly the SCAN with very useful information and experiences in beautiful layout and presentations. It is user-friendly and neat. Kindly continue to prepare them and send. In addition, the online news-service is also bringing hot news on HIV/AIDS. Congratulations and thank you. Dr. J M John (Coordinator of Lovenet, Kerela)

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

13

June & September 2008

One hot sunny day She came to my village Striding in with a sense of purpose Everyone turned to look at her She’s from the city they can tell. Few minutes later I was called into the room I was told “aunty” would take me to the city I was all but fourteen then. How could I have known What was being traded that day? Who, in that little world could guessed That the city would later swallow me alive? The city welcomed me with hungry men The night became day Slavery was the norm Wherever I turned cruelty was all I got. And so the years by I grew up selling what I had- my body and my dignity Just to survive Freedom was a distant memory And hell became my home. O but one dark night Someone did see Someone stretched out his hand Not to harm me but to pull me out of the pit And that’s why I stand today in the light To tell my story To tell you that many a daughter Lie in the gutter Many a princess walk the dark alleys. Perhaps it will strike a chord Within your soul Perhaps your heart will beat for many girl like me And perhaps you will stretch out your hand To pull them out of hell.

14

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

June & September 2008 Continued from p7

Shanti’s mother refused to acknowledge her as her daughter when she was brought back to her village. Shanti today, has no clue who gave her the virus but she has a stable CD count and dreams of getting married one day. She found a home to come to after a hard days work. A home where she can be herself, be a normal 20 year old and perhaps regain a fraction of a childhood and an innocence she has lost. What enables the survival of such girls and women is a community they can belong to, where healing, restoration, reconciliation with the Father can take place and hope can spring forth. If the body of Christ has anything to give to the Shantis around us in our cities, it is community. Without offering community to them, we have left them half way- stranded in an unsafe highway. A community where the Word becomes flesh is the need of the hour. It is not easy and requires laying down of lives for the cause. But if we look at the one who laid down his life so that in our brokenness, we can experience community with God and with people, we do not have much of a choice. We are called to lay down our lives for community. The church needs to dream of community that is bound by love, irrespective of earthly identities, centered on the communion of the Trinity. Our call is to dream and to make community happen in an increasingly lonely and wounded world. Community brings healing, hope and restoration, and fuels passion as “Emmanuel” becomes a reality and particularly needed to be experienced by our suffering neighbours. By Eunice New Generation Church Saidulajab, New Delhi

Bengali Girls Middle School (BGMS), Pakur, Jharkhand

B

GMS is an old school in Pakur that gives free education to the poor children who come from the villages. It's a co-education school even though it was named “Girls middle school”. Despite being provided free education, many children of Pakur, do not attend to school. Some of the children financially support their family, while some have no motivation to go to school and the school drop outs are embarrassed to go back to school. CANA along with BGMS started an evening class for boys who work during the day time and for boys who are drop outs, 10 boys were enrolled in the class. The boys love coming to the class since they get to study and play foot ball and other games. A change in terms of their behavior, cleanliness has been noticed in the boys. 3 of these boys have joined formal education this year.

Anusaran, New Delhi

A

nusaran an organization in Delhi has been working among deprived women and children since 2002. While working in this area, they saw that there were a lot of teenage boys in the area, who were school drop-outs and had got into bad habits like smoking, drinking, fighting. They felt these boys need counseling and support and guidance. CANA supported Anusaran to start a project for these young boys so that these boys can be educated. Through the project, the boys have been motivated and a sense of hope has been created in them. The boys with whom Anusaran is involved will be giving exams through the National Open School. Continued on p20

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

15

June & September 2008

Case Study

I am Anand and I am the father of four children, one son and three daughters. Unfortunately for me I am one of the early cases to be detected as having AIDS. It was the time when knowledge about this illness was very low and the fear was at its highest. Not that things have changed too much now but at least there is a little more understanding now. I was actually admitted to a very good and reputed hospital with severe leg problems and a lot of boils. The doctors advised me to get a test done for AIDS and I was diagnosed as HIV+ve. The hospital staff themselves did not know how to handle. Immediately a board was put up near my bed announcing to everyone that I had AIDS. There was a lot of ostracism. Family and friends alike tried to keep a distance from me. Even though there are a whole lot of programs on Television telling how AIDS is spread there still seems to be a lot of uninformed people with a lot of fears about getting AIDS by a mere shaking of hands. I became very critical and was referred to the Shalom Care center. With the care I received here I became better. My health is improving and I now weigh 31kg. It took quite some time before the family began to accept me. I have a lot of regret about my way of life and the illness that I am struggling with now. But I take my medicines regularly. Nav Jeevan Sewa Mandal has come forward to help me with my children's education. I am very grateful to God for this help. I am also very grateful that my wife and three children have not been infected. They are HIV_ve. I now work among a lot of HIV patients, counseling and comforting them. I work especially among the truck drivers, pan

16

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

shop owners and Chai shop people. I earn about Rs. 1000/- a month. I used to fight a lot with my wife before but now I am much better and more peaceful. The Shalom center has been my source of strength, understanding of love and care. Pray for

I am very grateful to God for this help. I am also very grateful that my wife and three children have not been infected. Our home. Pray that my children will all grow up with better values. Pray that my wife and I will be more at peace and that our home will be a better place. Pray for my health too that I will not be an easy victim for any other illnesses that may come my way as my immunity is still very low. Source: www.shalomdelhi.org

June & September 2008

Sl.

Name

Position with CANA Board

1.

Dr. Vinod Shah Coordinator, CMC, Vellore (TN)

Chairman

2

Mr. Sundar Daniel Asia Coordinator, Micah Network, Kodaikanal

Secretary

3

Rev. Dino L. Touthang Executive Director, EFICOR, New Delhi

Treasurer

4

Rev. Viju Abraham Director, ACT, Mumbai, (MS)

Executive Member

5

Dr. K I Jacob Director, St. Paul’s Trust, Samalkot (AP)

Executive Member

6

Fr. Sebastian Ousepparampil Director, CHAI, Secunderabad (AP)

Executive Member

7

Dr. Shailendra Awale Chief Coordinator, CNI-SBSS, New Delhi

Executive Member

8

Dr. Alita Ram Project Director, ACT, Mumbai (MS)

Executive Member

9

Dr. Nalini Abraham Consultant, New Delhi

Executive Member

10

Dr. Saira Paulose Director, Shalom, New Delhi

Executive Member

11

Mr. V. Samuel Peter Consultant, Chennai

Executive Member

12

Mr. S. Samraj Executive Director, CANA, New Delhi

Ex-officio

The latest statistics on the world epidemic of AIDS & HIV were published by UNAIDS/WHO in July 2008, and refer to the end of 2007. People living with HIV/AIDS in 2007 Adults living with HIV/AIDS in 2007 Women living with HIV/AIDS in 2007 Children living with HIV/AIDS in 2007 People newly infected with HIV in 2007 Children newly infected with HIV in 2007 AIDS deaths in 2007 Child AIDS deaths in 2007

Estimate 33.0 million 30.8 million 15.5 million 2.0 million 2.7 million 0.37 million 2.0 million 0.27 million

Range 30.3-36.1 million 28.2-34.0 million 14.2-16.9 million 1.9-2.3 million 2.2-3.2 million 0.33-0.41 million 1.8-2.3 million 0.25-0.29 million

Source: www.avert.org

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

17

June & September 2008

Guidelines for Network Membership Introduction Christian AIDS/HIV National Alliance (CANA) is a Christian multi-national NGO working exclusively in the field of HIV & AIDS based in New Delhi, India. It acts a coalition organization that facilitates a concerted effort among members of Christian churches, individuals, community based organization and NGOs by building their response mechanism in tackling the complex issues in dealing with HIV & AIDS. It is an enabling/networking body rather than a direct implementing agency. The Vision of CANA “…to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, a garment of praise instead of spirit of despair…for the display of His splendor…” Isaiah 61:3 The Mission We aim to create, interface and strengthen Churches, related organizations and networks towards developing sensitive and effective responses to HIV & AIDS. It is developing people by developing responses. Network Formation Identify and contact churches, Christian NGO's in the field of HIV & AIDS and those who are interested in this field. Meet and identify common areas of interest and needs Form a loose network with aims and objectives that the network and individual groups will strive to achieve.

18

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

Networks are expected to be a combination of Churches, Christian NGOs and institutions including theological institutions. As an alliance of network, CANA encourages to form Christian Network from Churches, Christian NGOs and Institutions for it involves Christian values in the network. CANA is happy to respond to the requests to facilitate individual groups/organizations in the formation of network and become part of CANA network. Aims and Objectives of the Network Each Network may formulate a set of aims & objectives taking into account the requirement of the region or area of operation. Conduct of Meetings The network is expected to meet twice a year for fellowship, sharing good practices on HIV & AIDS, sharing needs for training and opportunities. It is also needed to be a spiritual renewal time through the study of the word, an essential in the Christian work. There needs to be a Convener or a secretariat from one of the member network and to be rotated annually. Expectation from the Network Members Good governance of the organization; that include staff, financial and project management. Create an environment of trust: Trust among staff and beneficiaries and supporters. Stewardship: of time, finance and

June & September 2008

people. Christian values to be the core of the network. Such as transparency, accountability and integrity. CANA wants the networks and members to be explicitly Christian in its nature and presentation. Value of Partnership/Network The network is a learning community, learning from each others experience

and practices. Network implements minimum programs together as a group and work as a team in advocacy. Latest information on HIV & AIDS on prevention, care and treatments made available to members. Invitation to conferences, whenever there is one. Sharing resources/data. Best practices. Fatigue of care givers.

CANA NATIONAL NETWORK

N

I

N

D

I

A

Region/State cover by CANA Network

1. Red Ribbon, Delhi 2. Corinth Network, Mumbai, Maharashtra 3. Asha Kiran, Hyderabad 4. Malabar Network, Calicut 5. Nagaland Network, Nagaland 6. Manipur Network, Manipur 7. Sanghwari Network, Chhatisgarh 8. East Godavari Network, Andhra Pradesh 9. Dalit Network, Andhra Pradesh 10. Adhwana Network, Kerala 11. Madurai Network, Tamil Nadu 12. Jyoti Network, Uttaranchal 13. Tambaram Network 14. Ark Network, Vallore 15. Gurgaon Network, Haryana 16. Anughrah Network, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh 17. Navjeevan Network, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 18. ETC Theological Network, Jorhat, Assam 19. Glory Network, Itarsi, Madhya Pradesh 20. Ephphatha Nagpur Network, Maharashtra 21 Shalom Network, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 22. Himalayan Network, Sikkim 23. Chandigarh Network, Haryana/ Punjab 24. Shifa Network, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 25. Meghalaya Network, Meghalaya 26. Mukti Network, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh 27. Umeed Network, Aligar, Uttar Pradesh 28. Roshni network, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 29. New Life Network, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 30. Sehore Network, Sehore, Madhya Pradesh 31. Guwahati Network, Guwahati, Assam 32. Aizawl Network, Aizawl, Mizoram 33. Kohima Network, Kohima, Nagaland 34. Sambalpur Network, Sambalpur, Orissa 35. Patna Network, Patna, Bihar

SCAN - Sensitizing AIDS Action Networks

19

June & September 2008 Continued from p15

Gan Sabra, Aizwal, Mizoram

G

an Sabra is an organization working with terminally ill and children infected and affected by HIV and AIDS. They have a home for these children which has been recognized and declared 'Fit Institution' by Child Welfare Committee, Govt. of Mizoram. Gan Sabra started in 2006. During their work, among the HIV+ people, they saw that there were a lot of families with children in Aizawl suffering with HIV and the children and the family members needed support. With CANA's support, they started reaching out to the children who are infected and affected by HIV and living with their families. The project provides nutrition, medicine and counseling to the families. The project has created a sense of hope for those families who have been living with fear of death and fear of who will care for their children once they are no more. So far 10 children with their families have been directly reached

while 20 children have been indirectly reached.

Community Education Centre (CEC), Dimapur, Nagaland

C

EC is a school in Dimapur which provides education to child laborers and children of daily laborers and to children of families with very low income. While working these children, it was seen that there were a number of children in the streets who needed a shelter. Most of the street children were sleeping on the streets and railway platform. CEC started a night shelter with CANA's support. The night shelter is the first night shelter started in the state of Nagaland. A number of boys have come and gone. It's a challenge to work among young boys who have been into drugs and lived independently. There have also been cases of theft. Despite all this there have been changes in the lives of some boys who desire to become something in life. Some of the boys have also been put into vocational training.

Global HIV Consultation-Churches Living with HIV October 21-25, 2008 - Pattaya, Thailand Micah Network Pre-Conference to the World Evangelical Alliance General Assembly Communities with a common identity and a shared sense of life can ‘live with HIV’, rather than simply be ‘affected by HIV’ or ‘respond to HIV’. We are already ‘living with HIV’ as communities and churches, but sometimes we talk and act as if we are not. People who are living with HIV have proven that knowing one’s HIV status can be liberating and life giving, when there is care and support in the community. In October, the Micah Network will gather in the name of Jesus, who came that we might have life in all its fullness, and who came to set us free, so that we will return to our communities, who are living with HIV, better equipped to share this life and freedom. More information on Micah Network is available on www.micahnetwork.org

SCAN, CANA’s quarterly newsletter is designed to create a platform for strengthening Christian agencies and individuals working with those infected and affected by HIV & AIDS. This is done through sharing of resources, best practices, strategies and innovative intervention to facilitate development of the Christian response & voice in our nation in order to combat HIV & AIDS. We would love you to interact with us. Do send in articles, comments or even questions to: CANA, No. 5-8, 2nd Floor, Manish Royal Plaza - II, Plot No. 20, Sector-10, Dwarka, New Delhi - 110 075 Tele.: 011-4276 0193 / 94 | E-mail: [email protected] | www.cana-india.org