A senior figure in the Methodist Church has acknowledged that New Zealand's Christian churches have not shown enough compassion and understanding of gay men with HIV. Speaking yesterday at the official opening of the new premises of Body Positive Auckland, which he blessed, the Superintendent of the Auckland Central Methodist Parish, Reverend Barry Jones, used a biblical parable to underscore the need for Christians to show more compassion and respect for all people, including those with HIV. MP for Auckland Central and Minister Responsible for Auckland Affairs the Hon. Judith Tizard reiterated the Government's commitment to fighting the resurgent HIV epidemic which has over the past 20 years seen hundreds of NZ gay men die. She recalled the lack of support available for people with HIV and their caregivers in the early days of the epidemic, congratulated the organisation for its advocacy work and urged the broader gay community to recommit to fighting HIV. The new Body Positive premises in Poynton Tce, off Karangahape Road, include a spacious office, gathering area and drop in centre, replacing the one room the organisation has operated from for many years. As well as support, education and advocacy on HIV issues Body Positive Auckland provides monthly dinners and lunches to facilitate networking amongst people coping with the virus.