Faith Against Stigma Podcast

 In this episode titled "Bridging the Gap: How Does Love Show Up for PLWHIV?", Rev. Sophia Russell, Executive Director of Positive Wellness Alliance, and Dr. Raven Scales from United Health Care explore the ways love and compassion manifest for people living with HIV (PLWHIV). They discuss the critical role that both healthcare and community organizations play in supporting PLWHIV, emphasizing the importance of holistic care that addresses not only medical needs but also emotional and social well-being. The conversation delves into the power of love as a transformative force in breaking down stigma, fostering inclusion, and creating supportive environments where PLWHIV can thrive. Through their experiences, Rev. Russell and Dr. Scales highlight strategies to bridge the gap between clinical care and community support, ensuring that love and care are at the forefront of efforts to uplift and empower those affected by HIV.Featured Guests: Rev. Sophia Russell, Executive Director of Positive Wellness Alliance, Dr. Raven Scales, United Health CareThe COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

 In this episode titled "Elevating Humanity, A Compassionate Response," Rev. Glencie Rhedrick, a leader with the Charlotte Coalition for Justice and Associate Pastor in the Baptist tradition, alongside Shakethia Rorie, a Nurse Educator at Wake Forest Atrium Health and member of Zion Memorial Baptist Church, discuss their approaches to fostering compassion and justice within their communities. They share insights on how their faith and professional roles intersect in addressing social injustices and promoting health and well-being. The conversation highlights the importance of a compassionate response to human suffering and the ways in which faith-based and healthcare communities can collaborate to elevate humanity through justice, advocacy, and care.Featured Guests: Rev. Glencie Rhedrick, Charlotte Coalition for Justice, Associate Pastor in the Baptist Tradition, Shakethia Rorie, Nurse Educator,Wake Forest Atrium Health, Zion Memorial Baptist ChurchThe COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

 This podcast explores the evolving roles of women within Black faith communities, highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced by women as they break barriers and reshape traditional structures. The discussion delves into the historical context of women’s roles in these communities, examining how cultural and religious norms have often limited their leadership opportunities. However, the podcast also celebrates the progress made as women increasingly take on leadership positions, offering fresh perspectives and driving meaningful change. Through personal stories and expert insights, the episode underscores the importance of reimagining and empowering women’s roles in faith spaces, advocating for greater inclusion and equity in religious leadership.Featured Guests: Dr. Tamara Caple, Sister Circle International The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

Dr. Kendra Davis and Tamika Patterson discussed the role of faith in overcoming stigma and past failures, emphasizing the importance of utilizing faith to empower others and create a welcoming community. They also highlighted the role of faith in healing and sharing the love of Jesus, with a focus on healing and love. Later, speakers emphasized the role of faith in overcoming challenges related to HIV, including stigma and lack of access to care, and encouraged listeners to have great faith in the face of adversity.Featured Guests: Rev. Dr. Kendra Davis, Founder and Senior Pastor of Kairos Worship Center,  Licensed Clinical  Addictions Specialist, Elder Tamica Patterson-Neighborhood Hands and Nurse The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

The church plays a crucial role in addressing HIV stigma and health disparities. Leaders emphasized the importance of connecting faith and health, while acknowledging the need to address harmful theologies related to sex and sexuality. Education and equipping churches to eliminate harmful theologies and stigmatize HIV were identified as key strategies. The conversation also raised questions about the church's silence on health issues and the importance of breaking down barriers to access healthcare.Featured Guests: Bishop Sir. Walter Mack, Union Baptist Church, Winston-Salem, NC, Rev. Dr. Thomas A. Banister III, Pastor Temple Memorial Baptist Church, High-Point NCThe COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

The conversation centered around the importance of open communication, education, and active listening to end HIV stigma. Speakers emphasized the role of faith in providing a safe space for healing and support, while also highlighting the church's responsibility to break the silence on HIV/AIDS. They stressed the importance of vulnerability and openness in HIV work, and emphasized the need for tangible actions such as providing workshops and literature to support those affected by the virus.Featured Guests: Dr. Linda McRae, HOPE Counseling & Consulting Services Inc. Winston-Salem, NC, Rev. Dr. Abdue Knox, Greater Bethel AME Church, Charlotte, NC The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

In this episode of "Beyond Tolerance," two faith leaders engage in a heartfelt conversation about HIV advocacy and the essential role of faith communities in fostering environments of radical inclusivity. They discuss the transformative power of faith in combating stigma, promoting acceptance, and creating safe spaces where everyone is embraced and loved without conditions. Listen in as they share insights and actionable steps toward building faith communities that go beyond tolerance to actively welcome and support those affected by HIV.Featured Guests: Jeryl Anderson- AME Zion Church, Lavern Scott-AME Zion ChurchThe COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

 In this podcast episode, Camille Starnes from Wesley AME Zion Church in Charlotte, NC, and Bessie Baker from Rhoney’s Chapel AME Zion Church in Newton, NC share their experiences as First Ladies leading HIV ministries in their respective congregations. They discuss their calling to engage in HIV work, highlighting their efforts in education, testing, hosting awareness events, supporting families, and providing direct services to those living with HIV. The conversation addresses the harmful impact of stigma within faith communities and emphasizes the need for churches to better educate themselves and embody Christ's inclusive love. They also explore ways faith communities can create safe spaces for Black women living with HIV, ensuring that all affected by HIV feel embraced and supported.Featured Guests: Camille Starnes, Wesley AME Zion Church, Charlotte, NC and Bessie Baker, Rhoney’s Chapel AME Zion Church, Newton, NCThe COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

Activism Toward Being Human and Treating Others as Human" is a compelling podcast that explores the vital role of HIV advocacy within faith communities. Join us as we engage with two influential faith leaders, activists, and community members who are passionately working to dismantle stigma and promote compassion. Together, we discuss strategies and share stories that emphasize the importance of viewing each individual as a valued human being, deserving of dignity, respect, and unconditional love. Tune in to be inspired and empowered to make a difference in your community and beyond.Featured Guest:  Rev. Dr. John Mendez, Former Pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church, Winston-Salem, NC, and Psychotherapist, Imam Joèl Saahir, Resident Imam of Masjid Al-Muminun, Winston-Salem, NCThe COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

Faith leaders explore critical conversations about HIV advocacy and the intersection of faith, community, and compassion in this work. This message is from two extraordinary faith leaders who have dedicated their lives to breaking down barriers and promoting the love of God within and beyond the church walls. Join us as we delve into a vital conversation about the role of the church in showing unconditional love and acceptance, embracing the teachings of Jesus, and combating stigma in all its forms.Guest Speakers: Rev. Belinda Harris, Cedar Hill AME Zion Church and Rev. Verlon Anderson, Pastor, Center Grove AME Zion ChurchThe COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

ASHLEY COBB is an Atlanta-based sex educator, speaker and HIV activist known for my open and forward-thinking approach to sexual freedom, sexual pleasure and practical sex advice. Armed with a wealth of data, evidence-based research, and cultural insights, she committed to becoming a leading voice in the field of sex education, HIV education, and pleasure for Black women, and to empowering individuals of all backgrounds to embrace their sexuality and live their best lives.The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

Faith Against Stigma Episode 1In Episode One of the Faith Against Stigma Podcast, Candice Benbow, Author and Public Theologian,  discuses the act of liberation as we move toward wholeness. Candice Benbow explains how community is essential to our collective wellbeing and provides insight on how we are connected to those who came before us by saying, "I didn't get anywhere by myself." Rooted in faith, she explains the importance of creating  inclusive spaces and the need for faith communities to have liberating conversations. Further, Candice discusses HIV Stigma, sexual health among Black Women,  and emphasizes the importance of the intersections of faith, health, and Jesus' message of abundant life; including the biblical emphasis on wellness and wholeness as she recites Jesus' question - "Do you want to be made whole?"Featured Guest:CANDICE MARIE BENBOW is a multi-genre theologian who situates her work at the intersections of beauty, faith, feminism and culture, giving voice to Black women’s shared experiences of healing and journeying toward wholeness. Reimagining how faith can be a tool of liberation and transformation for women and girls, she challenges Black women to think critically about how they see God, themselves and the world.The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

Faith Against Stigma  Episode 2In Episode Two of the Faith Against Stigma Podcast, Rev. Dr. Nathan Scovens, Pastor of Galilee Missionary Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, NC and Leah McNair, Founder and Executive Director of Sister Circle International,  discuses why faith against stigma is not just about "them", but it's about "us."  Both Scovens and McNair discusses faith, trauma, and seeking help. They share their personal journeys around HIV, the harm silence creates, and the healing that can occur within families.Featured Guests:REV. DR. NATHAN SCOVENS is the spirited, gifted and anointed Pastor and Teacher of Galilee Missionary Baptist Church.  A courageous, dynamic, and visionary leader who hails from Baltimore, Maryland, grew up in one of the toughest communities of Charm City. Growing up in the inner city helped cultivate and mold him for a ministry defined by taking risks, defying the odds and overcoming obstacles.  LEAH MCNAIR is an entrepreneur, mentor, speaker, author, and the founder of The Sister Circle International. The Sister Circle is a 501-C3 organization based in High Point, NC, centered around the empowerment of women. Growing from 40 to over 9000 women engaged within the community, The Sister Circle enhances women and their families in every aspect of life. Through Leah’s vision and leadership, they provide classes, fellowship opportunities and tools as resources for the local community and abroad.The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

Faith Against Stigma  Episode 3In Episode Three of the Faith Against Stigma Podcast, Apostle Gloria Samuels, Senior Pastor of Great Commission Community Church, Inc.  in Winston-Salem, and Buddist Monk, Heiwa No Bushi, Co-Director at Wat Thepnimit Mediation Center,  discusses the process of critiquing their faith and the process of re-learning.  Featured Guests:APOSTLE GLORIA SAMUELS-LEAK  is Senior Pastor of Great Commission Community Church, Inc. in Winston-Salem, NC.  Under her leadership, the ​ministry is transforming lives by empowering communities and offers various ministries designed to touch the total person spirit, soul, and body. Samuels’ education allowed her to have the opportunity of 14 years in the Health Care Industry, and nine years as Director of Sales for Mary Kay Cosmetics. She has a love for entrepreneurship owning her own boutique for over 17 years. Her ministry focuses on strengthening relationships but she has a passion for women, youth, marriage, family and interpersonal healing.HEIWA NO BUSHI is a Buddhist Monk and Co-Director Wat Thepnimit Mediation Center. He is a former Christian minister, having served in the Christian denominations of Southern Baptist, Missionary Baptist, African Methodist Episcopal Zion, and Church of God (Anderson, IN). He has advanced degrees in philosophy and systematic theology. He also received training in both Mahayana and Daishin Zen Buddhism.  Heiwa no Bushi places his teachings under the moniker of “BodhiChristo,” which means “enlightened Christ,” an amalgamation of the two rich streams of Buddhism and Christianity. Here he describes the arc of his journey until the present.The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

Faith Against Stigma Episode 4In Episode Four of the Faith Against Stigma Podcast, Iya Dr. Funlayo E. Wood, and Rev. Dr. Daran H. Mitchell,  discusses faith, stigma, and fear among religious leaders. They contend that faith cannot exist with fear, and in order for the Black Church to move beyond toxic theologies they need to rise above their fears.  With an emphasis on God's power and the need for more education, Dr. Wood and Dr. Mitchell focuses on the importance of addressing the stigma surrounding HIV by talking openly about sexuality, drug use, and other factors that contribute to viral transmission. They believe that creating safe spaces for people to discuss their issues and seek help from a higher power can help combat HIV-related stigma.  Education and connection to one another is key to creating beloved community.Featured Guests:IYA DR. FUNLAYO E. WOOD  affectionately known as "Your Favorite Scholar-Priestess," is an initiated priestess,  intuitive tarot reader, meditation teacher, and South Carolina- and Virginia-descended Hoodoo whose mantra is “Scholarship, Service, and Spirit!” Spirit permeates both her scholarship and her service, and she founded Ase Ire in 2010 as a place to share her spiritual gifts and the things she has learned from her teachers with the world, especially with those new to African Spirituality. REV. DR. DARAN H. MITCHELL is Pastor of Trinity A.M.E. Zion Church in Greensboro, NC and Adjunct Professor of Pastoral Theology at Hood Theological Seminary. Dr. Mitchell earned the Bachelor of Arts degree, magna cum laude, in Religion/Philosophy-Liberal Studies from Bethune-Cookman College, the Master of Divinity degree from Hood Theological Seminary, and the Doctor of Ministry degree from the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology, Virginia Union University. Dr. Mitchell has served congregations in Tennessee, North and South Carolina, New York, and is now the pastor of Trinity A.M.E. Zion Church, Greensboro, North Carolina.The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

Faith Against Stigma Episode 5In Episode Five of the Faith Against Stigma Podcast, Dr. Brian Shackleford of Old North State Medical Society,  discusses their work in combating HIV stigma through faith-based initiatives. As a medical doctor, Dr. Shackleford shares his personal experience diagnosing and treating HIV patients while also relying on faith for restoration and healing. He contends that faith can play a powerful role in healing.  Further, listeners are encouraged to approach those living with HIV with the same grace and compassion they would want for themselves, rather than judging them.  Stigma surrounding HIV include the misconception that heterosexual sex is not a risk factor, as well as the fear of rejection from partners and communities, particularly in the Black Church.  Dr. Shackleford explains the need to integrate faith and medicine more fully.Featured Guests:DR. BRIAN A. SHACKLEFORD Is a Durham native who has chosen to give back by providing equitable care to vulnerable populations within his community. His role as a fledgling caretaker for his grandmother as a youth opened his eyes to his calling of service. Brian obtained both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biology from North Carolina Central University before attending Wake Forest University School of Medicine. After graduation from medical school, Brian entered residency at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center.As a resident, Brian served on numerous committees focused on wellness, diversity and inclusion, medical curriculum, clinical competency and residency steering. He was chosen to serve as assistant chief of medicine after the completion of his residency in 2019. After his chief year, Shackleford opened a practice as a primary care physician in Greensboro, NC. He was afforded the opportunity to partner with Old North State Medical Society (ONSMS) as lead physician in Guilford County in their COVID-19 vaccination efforts and was highlighted as a speaker on a White House town hall for his efforts. Brian now serves as the ONSMS president.The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

Faith Against Stigma Episode 6In Episode Six of the Faith Against Stigma Podcast, Rev. Dr. Kia Hood and physician Dr. Tracei Ball,  emphasizes the importance of faith in dismantling stigma around HIV/AIDS.  With two distinct backgrounds as a Clergywoman and Medical Clinician, our featured guests, talks about the importance of creating spaces for young people to ask questions about their bodies and sex, and empowering young women to be heard.  According to Dr. Ball, "about 20% of women account for the new cases. But out of that black women account for about 58% of the cases... So we're already talking about women who have been discriminated against because of their color of their skin. But now we're adding on the stigma of HIV... So when I think of black women and HIV, it's a great concern for me."Featured Guests:REV. DR. KIA HOOD SCOTT is a site pastor at Union Baptist Church High Point. She is a national preacher, motivator, speaker and mentor, and  has had a tremendous impact on our society. Through God, Kia has generated a passion to reach all those who desire hear about the unmovable word of God, leading many to Jesus Christ. Kia is known for her preaching, energy, personality and commitment to doing Kingdom work. Kia is a Cum Laude graduate from Winston-Salem State University, earning a Bachelor degree in Rehabilitation Studies and a Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling. She holds a Masters in Divinity from Wake Forest University and Doctorate of Ministry from United Theological Seminary, Dayton Ohio.DR. TRACEI BALL is an internal medicine specialist and Chief Medical Officer for OnCall Medical and Wellness.  She is also a Collaborative Physician with Old North State Medical Society. OnCall Mobile Medical and Wellness, PLLC is a mobile medical practice servicing the Charlotte, N.C. metro area that offers total medical and wellness solutions at patient’s convenience, right at their front doors. Providing personalized and confidential care, OnCall Mobile Medical and Wellness is available for house calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week, after hours, weekends, and holidays by special appointment.The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

Faith Against Stigma Episode 7In Episode Seven of the Faith Against Stigma Podcast, physician Dr. Tracei Ball and Rev. Dr. Jovon McPerry, discuss how HIV stigma manifests in individuals, communities, and healthcare settings, and how it requires ongoing education and empathy.  Rev. Dr. McPerry shares his personal story when testing positive  for HIV and the importance of having the HIV conversation with those in your immediate community.  Our featured guests also discuss medical mistrust and how medical providers can inadvertently perpetuate stigma against marginalized groups. Faith leaders can be advocates and help build trust related to medical care and engagement by helping to combat stigma. Featured Guests:DR. TRACEI BALL is an internal medicine specialist and Chief Medical Officer for OnCall Medical and Wellness.  She is also a Collaborative Physician with Old North State Medical Society. OnCall Mobile Medical and Wellness, PLLC is a mobile medical practice servicing the Charlotte, N.C. metro area that offers total medical and wellness solutions at patient’s convenience, right at their front doors. Providing personalized and confidential care, OnCall Mobile Medical and Wellness is available for house calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week, after hours, weekends, and holidays by special appointment.JOVON MCPERRY is Pastor of A Place Called Hope Church. He is affectionately known to most people as Pastor J or Dr. J. He is one that is known to worship and give God praise. Dr. J currently holds an earned Doctoral Degree in Pastoral Theology from Andersonville Theological Seminary in Camilla, GA. Also, a Bachelor’s degree in Biblical Studies and a Master's Degree in Divinity are both from Family Bible College of Fayetteville, NC. The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

Faith Against Stigma Episode 8In Episode Eight of the Faith Against Stigma Podcast, former Commissioner Fleming El-Amin, of Winston-Salem, NC, provides an Islamic perspective on HIV and stigma within the Muslim community.   El-Amin emphasizes the importance of breaking down barriers and leveraging faith and action addressing HIV stigma; encouraging listeners to put their beliefs into practice and help those impacted by HIV. Commitment to faith-driven social justice requires we operate with love and allow that to fuel our activism toward a more just world.Featured Guests:FLEMING EL-AMIN  was first appointed as Forsyth County Commissioner for District A when Commissioner Walter Marshall passed away in 2017. El-Amin won his first election for the seat in 2018. El-Amin, a Winston-Salem native, is well-known locally for his long career in education and his political involvement. He graduated in 1975 from Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, Iowa where he earned a degree in Economics and Business Administration and a certification in Secondary Education. El-Amin earned his master’s from the American Graduate School of International Management.The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

Faith Against Stigma Episode 9In Episode Nine of the Faith Against Stigma Podcast, HIV & Faith Ambassador, Franetta Bryant Jones,  discusses her work as a nurse and how her faith and HIV intersect with nursing.  Our featured guest stresses that education is power, so educate yourself and to ask yourself, "What if it was you?"  How would you want to be treated, especially from your faith community?Featured Guests:FRANETTA BRYANT JONES  of Great Commission Community Church is a trained volunteer HIV and Faith Ambassador from Wake Forest University School of Divinity.The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

Faith Against Stigma Episode 10In Episode 10 of the Faith Against Stigma Podcast, HIV & Faith Ambassador, Bishop Roger Billingsley-Hayes,  explains the need for an inclusive theology that provides a contextually understands a loving God, the human condition, and Scripture.  Bishop Billngsley-Hayes discusses his journey reconciling his spiritually and sexuality. He is a witness to the love of God and developing a broader understanding of realization that there is no exclusion with God.  Not having safe spaces and healthy conversations has led to disconnection from God. Our featured guest talks candidly about sex and the problematic dualism of spirit and body.  We need to learn to embrace and honor (and talk about) the whole person.Featured Guests:BISHOP ROGER BILLINGSLEY-HAYES  is pastor of ReNewal Fellowship United Church of Christ. He has touched lives in various ways for over 26 years in ordained spiritual ministry and over 20 years in the ministry of food. He has made life giving impacts and introduced the radically inclusive love of Jesus Christ through inward discovery, personally recovery and affectionate outreach to literally hundreds of people who have in turn, impacted thousands of others.The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.

Faith Against Stigma Episode 11In final episode of season one of the Faith Against Stigma Podcast, Physician Assistant Lashay Shaw and Rev. Melissa McQueen Simmons,  discuss the beauty of all of humanity and how HIV still persist, though science has advanced.  Our featured guests explain strategies for collaborating to reduce HIV and stigma.  We have to encourage faith leaders and medical providers to learn the facts about ways HIV continues to be transmitted and how to protect yourself so that you are not having inflammatory conversations with limited knowledge.Featured Guests:(PATRICE) LASHAY SHAW is a physician assistant at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, specializing in skin care services, dermatology, and cosmetic dermatology. She is a MSPA graduate of Wake Forest University School of Medicine.REV. MELISSA MCQUEEN-SIMMONS is the Spiritual Director/virtual pastor for Wholy Ground Spiritual center. Melissa is ordained in the United Church of Christ and is currently pulpit supply for the Southern Conference, co-leader for the Racial Justice and Equity team and member of worship committee at Holy Covenant UCC. She is also a facilitator for Our Whole Lives: Lifespan Sexuality Education that fosters informed, responsible, and values-based decisions about sexual health and behavior. She is intentional about healthy relationships with self, others, and the Divine of our understanding. She is committed to  relationship-building within the community. Melissa also leads the LGBTQ committee for the Charlotte Clergy Coalition for Justice.The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.