Another note regarding the disdain shown in some quarters for Mormon humanitarian assistance

In the region of the ex-Mormon web that I watch, I’m seeing fierce disapproval of the humanitarian efforts of the Church.  The occasion for what seems to be a recent spike in such denunciations is the massive clean-up effort mounted by the Church in the wake of flooding in Louisiana.

The Church doesn’t do enough, say the critics.

Its volunteers typically wear yellow vests or tee shirts saying “Mormon Helping Hands,” which, the critics say, shows that it’s really all about corporate branding and that Mormons ignore the New Testament’s counsel to give your alms in private.

Mormons are doing it, the critics assert, not because they really care about others, but in order to earn brownie points in heaven.

The Church only helps its own people, say the critics; it cares nothing for non-Mormons.

Sigh.

I’ll respond, very briefly, in order:

1.

One wonders how much the critics are doing.  (Sneering at people who’re trying to help may not, itself, count as disaster relief.)  It’s well documented that secularists tend, by and large, to give less — less money, less time, less volunteer labor — to charity than religious believers do.

2.

Many organizations have their volunteers wear distinguishing outfits.  (Take a look at the photos on the website of Catholic Relief Services for some examples beyond those shown below.)

Such clothing makes it possible for people in tough situations to recognize “official” helpers (and sometimes, I wouldn’t be surprised to hear, to distinguish such helpers from looters and other opportunists).  Victims can thereby tell those who’ve come as workers to help from those who might simply be fellow victims.  Distinguishing garb also helps people on the “team” to identify other members of the “team.”  And, of course, yellow is a bright color that can be helpful for safety.

3.

If we say nothing about what the Church is doing, we’re condemned for doing nothing.  If we say anything about what the Church is doing, we’re condemned for arrogant boasting and base motives.

Stories about Church humanitarian relief are inspiring to me and, I suspect, to others.  I’m motivated to contribute myself and, when and if the opportunity arises, to contribute my own time and labor.

This is a good thing.

4.

Finally, the accusation that Latter-day Saint charitable service is motivated by selfishness is simply unsustainable and pretty obviously embittered slander, and the allegation that Mormons never help non-Mormons is demonstrably false (in Louisiana right now, as in many, many other places).

You probably know the saying:  When you point with your finger to condemn others, most of your fingers are typically pointing right back at you.