Pope maintains Church's stance on abstinence

Pope Benedict XVI told African bishops during a recent meeting in Rome that abstinence is the only "fail-safe" way to prevent the spread of HIV. The pontiff reiterated the Church's teachings by urging fidelity in marriage and highlighting "the safeguard which chastity gives". The Associated Press quoted Benedict as saying: "It is of great concern that the fabric of African life, its very source of hope and stability, is threatened by divorce, abortion, prostitution, human trafficking, and a contraceptive mentality, all of which contribute to a breakdown in sexual morality." Prelates from South Africa, which has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world, were also present at the gathering.