Throughout the United States, community organizations, churches and concerned individuals will be recognizing World AIDS Day on Tuesday.

A Huntsville candlelight service will be hosted by the College Ministry of Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church, located at 700 Highway 30 East.

Beginning at 7 p.m. in the church sanctuary, the candlelight vigil will be in memory of those who have been lost to the disease and in support of those who are still affected by the disease whether personally or through friends and family says group member Marilee Fenn.

 “This service is our way of remembering those we have known who lost their lives or were otherwise affected directly or indirectly by HIV/AIDS,” said College Ministry member Ann Meripolski.

Caleb White said that the affected population is often discriminated against, and “we want to stand with them and show that there are people of faith in town who care about them and the causes important to them.”

“The College Ministry of Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church has identified several important issues to study and act upon during the course of the year,” said Karessa Strange, “and we decided to take part in this national movement to provide support for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS, and we look forward to standing in solidarity with other groups and compassionate individuals.

“In addition to coordinating this HIV/AIDS candlelight service, the College Ministry of Wesley Memorial UMC is also a reconciling community which  affirms all sexual orientations and gender identities as gifts of God.”

Wesley Memorial UMC pastor the Rev. Kevin Young said “we are proud to be able to join with United Methodist churches worldwide in emphasizing this critical ministry of compassion and caring. 

“We’re also very proud of our College Ministry for bring this global need to our local conscience. The World AIDS Day candlelight vigil will kick off a December campaign in which there will be weekly devotional services and service projects.”

“We hope that this effort will lead to a communitywide awareness of those who are hurting this season-whether due to sickness, poverty, hunger or loss, and our obligation as people of faith to respond in those times of need,” Young said. “In this season of celebration we hope to approach those in need in our day with the same compassion as the shepherds and wise men approached the manger of a lowly peasant family more than 2000 years ago.”

 For more information on the World AIDS Day Service or Advent Campaign, contact the church office at (936) 295-7459 or online at www.wesleyhuntsville.org.