Some are even starting or adding to their families. The Pastoral Care Staff are trained HIV test counselors and offer congregations, schools and community groups the opportunity for AIDS education tailored to their specific needs. Each year, on the second Monday of June, the Interfaith AIDS Network and AIDS Family Services cosponsor a Memorial Candlelight Service. At this service, which is held in a different church each year, the faith communities of WNY gather to remember, grieve and give thanks for the lives of those who have died of AIDS and to pray that a cure may be found for this disease, which has taken and continues to take the lives of men, women and children in our own city and throughout the world. A different religious leader each year speaks to those present of the realities of life and death and reminds them of God's mercy and love encouraging them to support each other in their grief.
Candles are lit and songs are sung to remember each unique and unrepeatable life.
All are welcome to join in this liturgy of love and remembrance.