Comprehensive response

America, October, 2004 by Donald G. LaSalle

The reports by Jon Fuller, S.J., and James F. Keenan, S.J., on the International AIDS Conference in Bangkok (8/30) bring to the fore the importance of a global perspective and a more comprehensive response to people living with H.I.V. and AIDS. Jon Fuller notes the significance of moving beyond a narrow medical model to a more holistic approach in providing solutions to H.I.V. prevention, including a concern for basic human needs too often lacking in places where H.I.V. presents the greatest threat.

I believe we Catholics need to pay great attention to Father Fuller's image of the AIDS Conference as a diverse gathering of leaders together with people affected by H.I.V. and AIDS, sitting at a common table to undertake "a work of the people--a liturgy on behalf of the...