Global Health

The theme of the annual AIDS Interfaith Breakfast in New York City highlighted the failure of the world health community to “put children first,” calling on faith communities to speak out on behalf of the voiceless and vulnerable. That theme can offer inspiration as churches celebrate World AIDS Day on Dec. 1. Photo by the Rev. Donald E. Messer, UM News.

World AIDS Day call: ‘Put people first’

At two global AIDS conferences, numerous speakers emphasized that faith communities can play a vital role in combating the stigma attached to the disease.

Global Health

Pierre Kenga (not pictured) traveled more than 80 kilometers from the village of Dikwadjondo in Sankuru province to the United Methodist-affiliated Tunda General Hospital in Tunda, Congo, with his wife (seated) and his sister (lying down). The hospital is attracting more patients from distant regions. Photo by Chadrack Tambwe Londe, UM News.

Hospital provides beacon of hope in Eastern Congo

Thanks to new buildings and equipment, Tunda General Hospital attracts patients from far and wide, bringing care to a remote region.

Global Health

Tim’s Place offers a safe, welcoming space for persons with memory loss and trained volunteers to build community together. Photo by Tim's Place, courtesy of the Pacific Northwest Conference.

Church helps families dealing with dementia

Trinity United Methodist Church started Tim’s Place to provide support for individuals with memory loss and time for their caregivers to recharge. The ministry was “a dream to help overwhelmed caregivers have some respite from their daily duties,” said program director Rhonda Heyn. Patrick Scriven has the story.

Global Health

Dr. Marie-Claire Manafundu, coordinator of The United Methodist Church’s Maternal, Newborn and Child Health program in eastern Congo, talks to a woman about the importance of breastfeeding during a visit to Lokole Methodist Hospital Center in Kindu, Congo. The church’s awareness campaign highlighted the health benefits for mothers and children and also featured testimonials from experienced mothers who shared the challenges and joys of breastfeeding. Photo by Chadrack Tambwe Londe, UM News.

Church works to promote breastfeeding in Congo

As part of World Breastfeeding Week, United Methodists organized information and awareness-raising sessions to support the health of mothers and children.

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Global Health

World AIDS Day call: ‘Put people first’

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