AIDS 2022, the 24th International AIDS Conference gathering in Montreal 27 July–2 August, calls on the world to come together to re-engage and follow the science. The interfaith side of the gathering calls the world to take action to overcome HIV stigma and discrimination.

Let us pray,

Loving God, help us to imagine that we are the neighbour who is beaten by the robbers and left for dead. In our helplessness, may we feel the pain of those who suffer HIV stigma and discrimination. May we feel the desperation of those who cannot access medication and good nutrition. May we feel the pain of those who get drug effects that affect their health. May these feelings hasten our feet to action. May it hasten our urgency to fight structures that continue to fuel inequalities of access to freedom from stigma and discrimination. May it move us to do whatever it is in our power to end AIDS. Help us, O loving God.

We pray that you lift us to higher-ground spirituality that multiplies love and life, health and peace, dignity and justice for everyone. We pray that you will level the ground for those who have and those have not and give us new energy to re-engage and follow the science and help the nations of the world to ensure that those who are most vulnerable among us, those who need care and medication and good nutrition, are able to have access. In your Holy name, we pray. Amen.

The Rev. Dr. Pauline Njiru (WCC–East Africa Region)