Voluntary counseling and testing helps people learn their HIV status and should be encouraged at all times because it plays an important role in both preventing new HIV infections and increasing access to care and treatment
Renasce Esperanca conducted the “AIDS in the Bible” workshop in 2007 in Mozambique and since then, there has been much emphasis on the need and importance of voluntary counseling and testing, .
Church leaders who could not even speak openly and freely about HIV & AIDS saw it fit to break the silence, then Pedra Vista Church (Rockview church ) led the way and set an example by encouraging their congregants to test for the virus, this was done in partnership with Health Alliance International (HAI) and since then, many people have been flocking for testing
VCT Centre at Igreja Pedra Vista
Cotinuing to endorse and show public support for Voluntary Counselling and Testing, the LUCSA AIDS Action Programme (LAAP) recently conducted another workshop at Renasce Esperança from 28 to 30 April 2009, benefiting 30 members from Igreja Graça de Cristo Renovada, Igreja Fe dos Apostolos and Igreja do Nazarene. The workshop ended with voluntary counseling and testing by all participants.
Participants, showing their VCT cards after testing
This conveyed clear message and made people aware and understanding that once they get to know their HIV & AIDS status, they can change their lifestyles and live accordingly to prevent transmission.
LUCSA continues to equip and encourage her member churches to intensify HIV & AIDS awareness programmes by teaching their congregants about the pandemic, has been conducting a series of workshops in the region.
More workshops are planned for member churches during the course of this year.
