Archbishop Aymond: ‘God, help my unbelief’

We are dealing with so many things – the uncertainty of financial stability, employment, schools for kids, family issues that have arisen, those who are sick, those who have died because of the virus. This leaves us with many questions.
    

We can take many approaches to those questions, but as people of faith, we believe that God is faithful and that he will lead us through this critical time.
    

I’ve heard people say that this is God’s wrath on the world, but that is not Catholic theology. We have a God who has come not to condemn but to forgive. Even when we have sinned, he lovingly calls us to his mercy.
We also know that in any kind of crisis, when one door closes, God can open another. Out of all tragedies, God, in his own way, is able to bring something that becomes life-giving and gives hope.
    

There’s no doubt that there is no “normal” at this point, but even in that, God will help us adjust to what is to come.
    

I am very aware that people are hungering for the Eucharist and hungering to go back to church. Following the mandates of civic officials, we will do our best to have as many people as possible return to Mass, while certainly respecting social distancing.
    

I know from what people have shared with me through emails and phone calls that this pandemic has brought about for many a renewal of faith and a recommitment to Christ and the church. People who have been away from the church for many years are returning. To anyone who is considering that decision, I say, “Welcome home!”
    

In any crisis, the poor are always the most affected. Those who are living paycheck to paycheck are definitely on our minds. That’s why we definitely support the government providing any extra resources to help them. 
    

Through Catholic Charities and other organizations on the parish level, we’re doing our best to reach out to these people. This is what we do all the time. This is who we are. We’re not looking for praise but just want to be there to serve. 
    

Second Harvest Food Bank, a ministry of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, has done an amazing job distributing food to people who never before have had to rely on others to put food on their family table.
    

On Friday, May 1, at 2 p.m., please join me and the other bishops of the United States and Canada in seeking the special intercession of the Blessed Mother in reconsecrating our nations to her in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. We invite you to join us as we pray for Mary’s continued protection of the vulnerable, healing of the sick and wisdom for those who are working to cure this terrible virus. 
    

During this challenging time, let us remember many who have experienced personal disappointment, specifically those who were to be baptized or make a profession of faith at the Easter Vigil, graduates, children who were to receive their first Communion, young adults who were to be confirmed, couples who had to postpone their weddings, and funerals celebrated with only a handful of people. As always, let us remember those in the healthcare profession, first responders and our leaders.
    

A final image I would like to share is this: In these times, say to God, “I trust you. I place myself and all these worries in your hands. I thank you for my belief. Help my unbelief.”
    

God is faithful.
    

Questions for Archbishop Aymond may be sent to clarionherald@clarionherald.org.