Does God Love the Coronavirus?

“Does God love the coronavirus? How could anyone respond yes? Bevans and Sedmak explore profound theological issues such as justice and eschatology as they struggle with the yes which they both believe they must endorse. Unlike books that delineate conclusions drawn from theological reflection, this book invites readers into the authors’ actual grappling with perceptions of God that are challenged by this cataclysmic pandemic. Through the exchange of letters, readers witness the growth of theology.”
—Dianne Bergant, CSA, Carroll Stuhlmueller Distinguished Professor emerita of Old Testament Studies, Catholic Theological Union, Chicago

“This is a wonderful conversation deeply rooted both in spirituality and in deep friendship. Bevans and Sedmak are not afraid to wrestle with many of the difficult issues that have been highlighted during the pandemic. The conversation is scholarly, accessible, and enriching, and offers us theology done imaginatively, finds beauty in imperfection, and urges us to practice a theology of relationship and vulnerability. It is a book which not only challenges our discipleship but also replenishes our spirituality.”
—Cathy Ross, Head of Pioneer Mission Leadership Training, Church Mission Society, Oxford

“If God loves all creation, and viruses are part of the created world, does God love the coronavirus? Informed by the Christian theological tradition and drawing from personal experiences and reflections, Bevans and Sedmak invite us to join their intimate exploration of this question and all that it implies. The end goal is to find firm grounding for hope in a world of grace that must also confront the reality of tragedy and suffering. This is an exceptionally timely book.”
—Daniel P. Horan, OFM, Director of the Center for Spirituality, Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, Indiana