Caritas Welcomes Papal Words on AIDS Prevention

The book, "Light of the World: The Pope, The Church and The Signs Of The Times," released Tuesday by Ignatius Press, features an interview with the Pontiff by Peter Seewald.

Caritas affirmed that the Holy Father's comments in this book "are an affirmation of the importance of pastoral sensitivity and compassion in HIV and AIDS prevention."

It noted in particular Benedict XVI's statement that comdom use "is not really the way to deal with the evil of HIV infection" as it is not a "real or moral solution."

The Pope said: "Much more needs to be done. We must stand close to the people, we must guide and help them; and we must do this both before and after they contract the disease."

Lesley-Anne Knight, secretary general of the aid agency, stated, "The Pope's reported comments in this book illustrate the importance of compassion and sensitivity in dealing with the complexities of HIV/AIDS prevention."

She affirmed, "Caritas delivers its HIV/AIDS programs in line with Church teaching and we will consider, in close consultation with the Holy See, whether there are implications for our work in these reported comments of Pope Benedict."

Caritas, which is the confederation of 165 national Catholic aid agencies, provides HIV/AIDS programs for more than 100 countries.