11/30/06 World AIDS Day Activities Filled with Remembrance   "As a community we have been challenged by such a moment as this!  A moment when we know we are living with AIDS and that we are loved and affirmed.  A moment in which we can offer compassion to those with AIDS and HIV.  A moment when we can sit and comfort those who suffer illness and loss..."  --Excerpt from "The People's Prayer"   Solemn drumbeats called the Afia Center community together to begin the 2006 World AIDS Day Remembrance Ceremony on Thursday, November 30. The Afia Center is a program of Family Service of Rhode Island in collaboration with the Mathewson Street Church in Providence. The Afia Center, located at the church two afternoons a week, offers drop-in group counseling, nutritional counseling, basic needs assistance, a hot meal, and social, spiritual and recreational opportunities for people with HIV and AIDS. The Rev. Jonathan Almond, pastor of the Mathewson Street Church, helped lead the ceremony, which included readings from the Bible, the Koran and Buddhist teaching.  Names of those dying from AIDS over the past year were spoken. Lunch was served. and shortly after the Big Nazo Puppet Creature Stroll stopped by to provide entertainment, singing songs, playing the accordion and dancing around. Earlier in the day, guitarist Michael Washor played, and tours of the center were available.  Activities were developed by the Afia Center clients and agency staff. (end)