We are taught to be “Christ-like,” but what does that really mean? It means loving those who are in pain, no matter what caused their pain. Pastor Straton and members of his local church in Rwanda minister to those living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. He doesn’t ask how they became infected; he chooses to love them where they are. By walking with those who suffer, holding their hands, and praying with them, Pastor Straton’s church acts as the hands and feet of Jesus in their community.

Because Pastor Straton’s church reached out to care, ordinary members stepped up and were trained by the PEACE Plan in basic skills like starting a support group and performing HIV testing. Because they began to care in practical ways, entire families are alive today, six years later.