At least two large events are scheduled to celebrate World AIDS Day, 2009. The annual day that raises awareness of HIV/AIDS and those affected by the disease is celebrated globally on Dec. 1. In Sarasota, a candlelight vigil will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota at 6:30 that evening.
The Gulfcoast Affirming Interfaith Network, or GAIN, has organized the vigil and a “reading of names” recognizing those battling the disease will follow the service in the church’s courtyard. Anyone who would like to have names included in the reading should contact Bart Coyle at bartsrq@verizon.net.
Music will be provided by Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota and the Interfaith Festival Chorus.
Another celebration recognizing the day is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 29, at 7 p.m. The Suncoast AIDS Theatre Project will present “Reflections: A World AIDS Day Concert” featuring professional theatre artists from within the community in an evening of song and stories offering the community an opportunity to remember and reflect on those who have passed and those who still suffer from HIV/AIDS.
The concert at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church is free, but a goodwill offering will be taken to benefit the theater project and the Community AIDS Network of Sarasota. The church is at 2256 Bahia Vista St. For more information call 941-955-6479.
