A CHRISTIAN charity is calling on churches in Hamp-shire to become more involved in the plight of millions of people caught up in the worldwide Aids pandemic.

Samaritan's Purse International UK (SPI), which co-ordinates the Christmas shoe box appeal for children's toys called Operation Christmas Child, believes most Christians feel that the British Church's response to HIV and Aids is inadequate.

Less than half of respondents to a recent UK church survey indicated that HIV and Aids was a key global issue. Of those surveyed, 31 per cent said that more should be done, 40 per cent said that more could be done, yet only five per cent of churchgoers were invol-ved in the issue themselves.

SPI told the Daily Echo this week that this lack of activity by the Church needs to change.

Debora Randall, International HIV manager of SPI, said: "The lack of involvement in this issue by UK Churches is in stark contrast to Churches in countries that are affected by the disease.

"In many countries where SPI works, the Church is responding to the pandemic by mobilising congregation and community members to create better understanding in their communities about the disease and care for those affected.

"We see church volunteers taking in children who have been orphaned, caring for people living with HIV, and taking a leadership role in their communities on this issue. These church members have so little in material wealth and resources, and yet are able to accomplish so much by coming together and being actively involved.

"We have a responsibility as the body of Christ to respond to this issue and not turn our back on those who are affected by HIV."