Catholic high schools wrap up fall sports season

WASHINGTON — Kerry Alys Robinson, the new president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, the organization dedicated to carrying out the domestic humanitarian work of the Catholic Church in the United States, says its mission isn’t only to be generous, but to inspire generosity in turn.

“Generosity is humankind’s birthright and we are all called to be generous and also to be catalysts to inspire generosity in others,” Robinson told OSV News in a Nov. 1 interview. “I love that part of what Catholic Charities offers: an opportunity for people to volunteer and be generous with their time, with their talents, with their merciful hearts, and in service to others who are really struggling and were converted in that activity.”

Robinson began her new role in August and is just the second layperson – and second woman – to lead the organization. Although Catholic Charities is not a political or partisan organization, Robinson’s tenure coincides with several key political issues in the United States that impact its service to people who are poor and vulnerable: the potential for a government shutdown, a shifting legal landscape on abortion and a growing cultural divide on the issue of migration.

In a political landscape where the issue of migration is growing increasingly contentious – a social media influencer recently made threatening remarks about Catholic Charities staff over their work with migrants, and a handful of lawmakers in the House GOP recently questioned that same work – Robinson said their mission is to remain focused on the humanity of the individuals they serve.

“I try not to spend too much time worrying about a tiny minority of people who are critical – and their criticisms sort of baffle me,” Robinson said. “It is clear that it comes from a small group of people who either don’t understand, or for some reason intentionally misrepresent, the work that faith-based organizations like Catholic Charities do.”

The American people “almost universally are in agreement that our immigration system is broken and needs reform,” Robinson said, adding that is a task for lawmakers.

“Now, I would say to policymakers, that’s your job and we are eager for you to do your job and do your job well,” she said. “Meanwhile, we are going to care for people who find that they need a hot shower and a meal and a safe shelter after they have been processed by the Border Patrol and admitted into the country.”