The theme of breaking the silence echoed loudly when HIV-infected nurses from Zimbabwe and Uganda told their stories and received cheers and tears of support, and expressions of new willingness to care for the carers. Hard copies of the Fact Sheets were distributed, along with CD-Roms. Singing and dancing were an integral part of the day when nurses renewed their commitment to care, partnerships and breaking the silence. The threat and challenge of the epidemic remains an uphill battle within the church. In terms of its mandate, the church has no choice but to respond towards stemming the tide.
Christian faith demands that the church become a beacon of hope.
The Church must break the silence that is crippling communities. A stronger advocacy role needs to be developed, both at a political and pastoral level. Moral, financial and technical support must be intensified. At a pastoral level, ecumenical structures must be established to enhance community-based responses, especially with regard to care and support of orphans and vulnerable youth. Four well-researched papers had been prepared on these issues and been distributed to the participants prior to the meeting.