An open letter to the Mennonite churches and to the Church of the Brethren By Rob Gascho, Brethren Mennonite Council for Lesbian & Gay Concerns As BMC members, we are often close to people who are infected and living with HIV, or who have died from AIDS-related diseases. Education about the disease and about the changing of behavior is the most effective weapon we now have in the fight against HIV/AIDS. We know that gay men have been particularly susceptible to this disease in the past. However, statistics now show that the largest percentage increase in HIV/AIDS cases is occurring in the heterosexual population, particularly in women. Our Brethren/Mennonite youth are not immune to this disease. We know there will always be young people in our midst who choose a life different from that taught or desired by their parents and the church. Not only are our gay children at risk for AIDS, but or straight children are as well. We ask for the church to respond to AIDS by facing the reality of the paths taken by some young people - and by recognizing the importance that they be given the information that may save their lives. We implore parents, teachers, pastors and counselors to speak to our children and to arm them with the facts regarding HIV/AIDS and its prevention. We call for education and discussion with our children about the transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS. We call for understanding and compassion toward all people with HIV/AIDS and their families. We pray that the loving Spirit of Christ be shared in this critical era of the AIDS epidemic. BMC is committed to working with the church in dealing with these issues. Education and caring can dispel fear and save lives. It is our prayer that each and every youth in our churches be aware of how to prevent HIV infection, and that all among us with HIV infection be treated with the compassion and love due each of God's children. Brethren / Mennonite Council for Lesbian & Gay Concerns; Post Office Box 65724; Washington, DC 20035.