Clarification of Pope's Words on AIDS

YAOUNDÉ, Cameroon, MARCH 19, 2009 (Zenit.org).- Here is the statement published Wednesday from Yaounde by Father Federico Lombardi, director of the Vatican press office, clarifying the Pope's comments on AIDS.

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In regard to the reaction caused by the Holy Father's words on the AIDS problem, Father Federico Lombardi, director of the Holy See Press Office, explained that the Pontiff confirmed the positions of the Catholic Church and the essential lines of her commitment to combat the terrible scourge of AIDS: first, with education in the responsibility of persons in the use of sexuality and with the reaffirmation of the essential role of marriage and the family; second, with research and the implementation of effective treatments for AIDS, making them available to the greatest number of patients through many health initiatives and institutions; third, with human and spiritual assistance to AIDS patients, as well as to all those who suffer, who have always been in the heart of the Church.
 
These are the directions in which the Church concentrates her commitment, considering that, to seek essentially a greater diffusion of condoms, is not in reality the best way, the broadest view or the most effective way to address the scourge of AIDS and to safeguard human life.

[Translation by ZENIT]