Spreading Compassion For HIV/AIDS

While the Pope is threatening to remain a hard ass when it comes to church doctrine on the ban on condoms (even to prevent the spread of AIDS), Buddhist monks have embraced HIV/AIDS education and are teaching compassion for those already impacted. It would seem to me that this would be a top priority for the Catholic Church - particularly since AIDS is so rampant in the places where the church is growing the most.

"Hoeurn Som Nieng is one of the hundreds of Buddhist monks trained to educate people about HIV/AIDS to reduce the stigma and to promote care and compassion for the victims.

“I want to be able to restore confidence in the victims. I am happy when they are happy,” said Hoeurn. .

Buddhist monks are highly revered and respected by Cambodians, and are able to spread AIDS prevention messages effectively through home visits. People are more willing to share their problems and request for help as monks are highly regarded.

“The monks’ position of respect in Cambodian society has contributed to our success in reaching out. People open their doors for us because they trust us,” said Hoeurn.

Last year, monks working with the Salvation Centre visited over 7,000 households with AIDS prevention messages.

Monks also try to address the psychological distress caused by HIV/ AIDS by providing training in meditation techniques and by teaching the Dharma, the body of teachings expounded by the Buddha.

However, meditation is optional because not all those infected are Buddhists. "

And another thing ... notice that they are not forcing their religious views on those impacted in exchange for "compassion."