Women, HIV, and the church
Book Description
When faced with humanity's greatest health crisis, how did the Christian church respond to those most vulnerable? Arthur J. Ammann examines a profound disconnect between Christian teachings and practice during the HIV epidemic, particularly regarding women and children who bore the heaviest burden of suffering.
This thoughtful exploration reveals how many churches, rather than embracing the sick and dying as Jesus did, often responded with stigma and rejection. Women and children who had previously served their communities through these same churches found themselves turned away when they most needed sanctuary and support.
Through careful analysis of both Old and New Testament teachings, contributing authors illuminate Christianity's clear mandate to care for the poor, sick, widowed, and orphaned. They examine why these fundamental principles were so often abandoned when confronted with HIV, leaving millions without the refuge they desperately sought.
The book challenges readers to confront uncomfortable questions about compassion, judgment, and authentic Christian response to crisis. While focusing specifically on HIV, Ammann uses this epidemic as a lens through which to examine broader patterns of neglect and discrimination within religious communities.
For those seeking to understand how faith communities can better embody their stated values, this work offers both sobering reflection and a call to more genuine discipleship. It invites readers to consider what other needs they might be overlooking and how to bridge the gap between belief and action.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Short (< 200 pages) (~5 hours)
📄 Length: 180 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore AIDS (Disease)
- ✓ Explore Church work with women
- ✓ Explore Christianity
- ✓ Explore AIDS (Disease) in women
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects
- ✓ Explore HIV infections
- ✓ Explore Church work with the sick
- ✓ Explore HIV-positive women
