For what may to be the first time in the three decades of the HIV epidemic, an AIDS Candlelight Memorial Service will be held without the traditional candles. Candles have been lit at the services as a tangible expression of hope, as a symbol of light in the worst of the HIV epidemic darkness, and people have lit individual candles as tangible reminders of loved ones and friends lost to the ravages of the disease. However, due to naked flame restrictions at Te Papa, the venue for this year's Wellington service on 18 May 2014, the real candles will be replaced by a virtual candle on "a huge TV screen which will have a symbolic candle burning throughout the memorial," according to co-organiser Ron Irvine of Body Positive Wellington. Irvine says the organisers did consider the significance of the flickering candle flames and have included two features in the service "to compensate for the candle lighting which is usually available for people to come and light for a loved one that have passed on." He says people will be able to "come up to the stage and share with the audience special memories they have of loved ones." Also, people will be given a "pre-printed notelet" on which they can "write down their special thoughts either past, present or future." They will then be invited to attach their notelet to a large commemorative poster. AIDS Candlelight Memorial Services - 18 May: Wellington 2.30pm - Te Papa Te Marae, Level 4, 55 Cable St Auckland 6pm - St Matthews in the City Cnr Hobson
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Thursday, 8th May 2014 - 12:22pm