Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki
Archbishop of Milwaukee
 

The recent devastation of hurricanes Harvey and Irma causes us to pause and think how quickly our lives can change. These natural disasters leave our brothers and sisters suffering in the aftermath of destruction. At the same time that this natural evil occurs, it’s remarkable to see that the best in us also comes to the fore. Many citizens forget their differences, and only wish to ease the pain of their brothers and sisters. There is a solidarity, which is part of our human nature: we are one family. This concept of solidarity is taught by our Catholic faith and deeply embedded in our Catholic Social Teachings. However, despite the goodness generated by so many, a few will attempt to take advantage of this situation. Unfortunately, there are phony organizations, which claim to help, but merely pocket the funds meant to help those in need.
 
So please, if your heart leads you to contribute, do so to those organizations which you know can be trusted. The two that I am most familiar are Catholic Charities USA, as well as our local Catholic Charities for domestic use, and Catholic Relief Services for those wishing to assist those countries who have been affected outside of the USA. I can assure you that they will guard your donations, and see that they will be put to good use.
 
Last Sunday’s reading from Ezekiel reminded us that we are responsible for our brothers and sisters, and to admonish those who choose to do evil. Do you have an elderly relative or an elderly neighbor? Please talk with them about the unsavory characters who attempt to take advantage of persons. Before they take any action or respond to urgent requests, suggest that they check with a relative, a neighbor or even the local pastor to determine the legitimacy of the message or demand.
 
Scams are a part of our society; there are those who prey upon the vulnerable. These soldiers of the evil one will use implements of modern technology and bogus threats of our government over the phone, the internet or by mail to capture unsuspecting individuals and strip them of their savings. Seniors might be told that they need some repairs done to their home to avoid building violations, or some person may contact them by phone, stating that the IRS is garnishing their bank accounts (this was on my answering machine). They might even receive an official-looking letter from the Social Security Administration that needs them to respond immediately about claims (I have received this one, too). It all looks official and seems to be an offer of assistance, but of course, it’s fake and there is only one interest – to secure information in order to invade the unsuspected recipient of their savings.
 
There is so much good in us, but the Lord Himself warns us not to be naïve. “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore, be as cunning as serpents and as innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). About two years ago, I received an urgent phone call from a person claiming to be a missionary who was in need of $2,000 because of health issues. He had recently arrived from Africa, and was told to contact me by Cardinal James Harvey, a former Milwaukee priest. I listened with great interest to this caller, who was instructing me on how I could wire the money. I told him that I just so happen to have Cardinal Harvey on my other phone line, and asked if he would give me his name and religious order. Then, I heard an abrupt click and a dial tone. So much for the emergency; he did have some good information, which is usually the case with most scams.
 
There are brothers and sisters in need, and natural disasters remind us of the urgency for care. Trusting those who can best direct the donations to the needy is one way that we truly LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Note: This blog originally appeared as the September 9, 2017 "Love One Another" email sent to Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of Milwaukee by Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki. If you are interested in signing up for these email messages, please click here.