Column by Cindy O’Connor
Have you had to show anyone recently who you are with any form of identification?
I succeeded in getting my “Real ID” and what fun that was!
Proving my identity included obtaining several official documents, most had to have the special seal and be originals, not copies. At the courthouse there were two offices to get the proper paperwork, online I had to apply for my birth certificate that included a raised seal. Additionally, I had to request an adjustment on my social security card, omitting the letter “A” because I was using my confirmation name as my middle name. This process took over three weeks and two trips to the Department of Motor Vehicles.
What did I have to prove? I am A child of God: (John 1:12) just like you, and God created mankind in his image; (Genesis 1:27), that’s us!
Our Heavenly Father tells us, “It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you.” (John 15:16)
What if you didn’t have any official identification and you are unable to prove who you are? You cannot be employed, have a bank account, drive, be housed, vote, etc.
Vital records are just as the name states: VITAL for existence. Having the correct birth certificate, a social security card, a state ID or driver’s license are necessary to function in society. As a ministry working with folks that are under-employed, experiencing homelessness or transitioning into a new way of life, we have found many do not have any form of identification and cannot afford the fees.
For almost two years, usually twice a month, Catholic Charities has assisted those who need to prove their identity. We can bless individuals who are in a challenging predicament with an ID, bringing a sense of belonging and dignity, proving who they are and who they are not.
Can you imagine not being able to be you? I must admit, sometimes I wonder what it would be like not being me, however, I know that is disrespectful of my blessings and purpose in life. Would life be the same, better or worse if we were someone else? Imagine if you had to prove daily who you are with no official evidence?
If you are called to be a part of our Vital Record Initiative and feel compelled to sponsor someone so they can have their “proof of identity” back, please contact our Outreach Program Director, Lisa Fellabaum at (814)505-1106 or lfellabaum@dioceseaj.org.
As people of faith, St. Paul reminds us in Romans, chapter 5, verse 1, ‘Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.’
Cindy O’Connor is the Executive Director of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown.
