“But of Course He is Led by God”: Pastoral Influence on an HIV/AIDS Ministry

Abstract

HIV/AIDS is spreading more rapidly in black communities than any other in the United States, with black women being 23 times more likely to become infected than any other subgroup in the country. Some African-American churches are becoming involved by creating HIV/AIDS ministries that cater to various needs of local populations. Through an examination of deictic markers, this article analyzes ideologies surrounding HIV/AIDS and the pastor's influence on the HIV/AIDS ministry at College Street Baptist Church.

Keywords:

• church
• HIV/AIDS ministry
• pastoral leadership