A great challenge in Roatan is the problem of HIV/AIDS. In Punta Gorda, we are seeking to provide education about the illness to help dissipate stigmas for those living with this disease. Additionally we are encouraging prevention by asking youth to abstain from sex until they are married, and encouraging couples to remain faithful to each other. This can best be accomplished when people commit their lives to Christ. He can give them the power to choose to protect themselves and others from this illness.

These pictures were taken last year on December 1—AIDS Awareness Day. The parade started at one end of town and ended at the other. To finish up the day there was a competition of questions relating to HIV/AIDS with prizes given to the winners. The local AIDS awareness group, Esperanza de Vida, of which Karen Rickel, WGM missionary, is a member, sponsored the event.