Dear HSD,
In my opinion what you need in order to lose condoms is (in any order but all prior to losing):
1) be sexually exclusive: consciously decide on it as a couple
2) do an HIV/STD-check-up: you both come back clean. not; have it cleaned up, if it can be. if it can't be; sorry, but there goes the deal.
3) chose birthcontrol: decide together what is the most suitable way for both, don't forget the what-if you do get pregnant and what the odds are.
Seems like you've checked 1 and 2, true?
So we're on 3. First of all; I'm wondering about the same as Brandye does. And second; you need to chose your method of birthcontrol that fits you best as a couple. Clearly; losing the condoms is not for him. You can't make him do anything he doesn't want to. And he has to stand by that decission, not one moment he does agree and another he doesn't. What you can do is initiate communication; ask him of his fears, inform him about your birthcontrol, provide him with accurate information on actual risks, make sure he understand how you make sure to use your BC appropriately, etc. Ask him if he has alternatives for you, make lists of pro's and cons, etc. In conclusion; you could end up with the same as you are now, it could also bring new perspectives. Communication is the key to a healthy relationship.
But; this takes attention and energy. Both you need, since you're talking something so important. Since you mention his mind is much occupied at the moment with a very serious matter, it may not be the time to have him think over this. As we say it in Dutch; all the info will go in one ear and fly through his head dropping out at the other ear :) And in a bad case; you'll irritate him; that is certainly not a good approach to get things your way and could easily backfire.
Unlike EEK and Brandye, I'd say you have done nothing disrespecting to yourself or him by asking him to not use a condom. The only potentially disrespecting would be how you refer to "making him", of this unlucky choice of words I'm giving you the benefit of the doubt :)
RedRoses