40 Years in the Wilderness

40 Years in the Wilderness

How the Church Can Support those with HIV/AIDS

J. Marshall Shamell; foreword by Rae Lewis-Thornton
Judson Press, 2025
ISBN 9780817018528

Softcover, 119 pp.
5.5 X 8.5 X .5 inches | 0.8 pounds

In the forty-plus years since the first cases of HIV/AIDS were revealed to the United States, how has the church responded to those living with the disease? J. Marshall Shamell shares in-depth information about the state of HIV/AIDS ministries in today’s church, along with analyses of the theological reasons that inspire some to respond with compassion while others do not. By blending data with the stories of real-life individuals living with HIV/AIDS and their experiences in the church, Shamell inspires the church to do as Jesus would, extending compassion and care to people in need. 

Rev. Dr. J. Marshall Shamell has served in the Gospel Ministry since 1991, serving as a youth pastor at several churches and as an associate minister. He has served as an event/meeting planner for several non-profit organizations. He has worked in the hospitality industry as a Sales Manager, where he worked for two major hotel companies. He has earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Marian University, Indianapolis, IN, a Master of Divinity from The Morehouse School of Religion at the Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta, GA, and a Doctor of Ministry at United Theological Seminary, Dayton, OH. He is a father of the late James Allen Propes.