About Us

As of August 31, 2007, the National Catholic AIDS Network ceased its staffing and office operations. For nearly twenty years, the National Catholic AIDS Network helped to make spirituality and faith a powerful resource for all of us living with HIV/AIDS, whether infected or affected. The Network was the only national organization that was devoted exclusively to helping the Catholic Church respond with understanding and compassion to the pain and challenge presented by the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

The National Catholic AIDS Network has its roots in the first national gathering of people in HIV/AIDS ministry which was held at Notre Dame University in 1988.

Founded in 1989 by a diverse group of leaders within the Catholic Church, the Network recognized the seriousness of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. It concentrated on serving Catholic agencies, communities, and individuals as a clearinghouse of information and resources; a coordinator and provider of education and technical assistance; and as a referral source.

In response to the need to coordinate a year-round response to HIV/AIDS in addition to the annual conference, the Network was incorporated as a nonprofit corporation that same year. It became the only national organization devoted exclusively to helping the Catholic Church respond in an informed and compassionate manner to the challenges presented by the HIV and AIDS pandemic.

On 1 July 2005, a Collaboration Agreement between Loyola University Chicago and the National Catholic AIDS Network went into effect. One of its main goals was to increase the opportunities for HIV and AIDS education. As part of this agreement, the first graduate course, HIV/AIDS: Pastoral Issues and Responses, was taught by Dan Lunney and offered in conjunction with the 19th Annual HIV/AIDS Ministry Conference in July 2006.

The National Catholic AIDS Network has reflected the diversity of the Church including members of the hierarchy, clergy and religious women and men as well as lay people who direct and staff the Church's educational and pastoral services. It has celebrated the rich ethnic and cultural diversity of the members of the Catholic Church through a commitment to welcome all the members of the Body of Christ, whether African Americans, Latinos, Asian Americans, Caucasians or Native Americans. We are many parts but all one body (1 Cor. 12).

The Network always included those living with HIV/AIDS as well as care providers, family and loved ones who are affected. Our members embody the rich tradition of the Church's ministry to all people in need.

 

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