World Aids Day: December 1

Benedict XVI Urges More Effort to Stop AIDS

VATICAN CITY, NOV. 28, 2007 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI is appealing to all people of good will to increase their efforts to halt the spread of HIV/AIDS, and to combat "the disdain" he says is often directed toward those with the disease.

The Pope made this appeal at the end of today's (Thursday) general audience, which was held in Paul VI Hall. He noted that Saturday, December 1, is World AIDS Day.

"I remain spiritually close to everyone suffering from this terrible sickness, and to their families, especially those who have lost a loved one," the Holy Father said. "To everyone I give assurances of my prayers. Furthermore, I wish to exhort all people of good will to increase their efforts to halt the spread of the HIV virus, to combat the disdain which is often directed towards people who are affected by it, and to care for the sick, especially those who are still children."