World AIDS Day (WAD) takes place on 1 December each year. It is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness.

Founded in 1988, World AIDS Day is the first ever global health day.

This year, we will be at Church of the Holy Trinity over the weekend of 26 & 27 November 2023. We invite you to come together to pray for all sufferers of HIV/AIDS.

Globally, an estimated 38 million people have been infected with the AIDS virus. Despite the virus being only identified in 1984, more than 35 million people have died of HIV and AIDS related illnesses, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history. In Singapore, a total of 8,998 cases have been reported of which 2,255 had passed away over the years.

Today, scientific advances have been made in HIV treatment and much effort has been made to help the public understand the condition of the disease. Despite this, every year there are about 250 new cases reported in Singapore. There are still people who do not take precautions to protect themselves and others. And sadly, the stigma and discrimination remain a reality for many people living with the condition.

World AIDS Day is important because it reminds us that HIV has not gone away. There is still a vital need to increase awareness and fight prejudice.

World AIDS Day is an opportunity for us to show solidarity with the millions of people living with HIV worldwide. Let us come together on 26 November to pray for and with them at Mass.

World AIDS Day may be once a year, but you can still support people living with HIV/AIDS all year round. Call us on 63535440 to find out more.