We can transform hatred with love and compassion

To the Editor:

The news has not been good. Racism and violence are in the headlines again, and many are shaking their heads in disbelief. How could this happen, in our country, in this day and age?

What can be done?

Each of us can take a stand, with our choices, to show what we believe in. To show that we can transform hatred with love and compassion. To show that we are united in our belief that we are all beloved sons and daughters.

Catholic Charities stands for justice. For equality. For love.

And I know you stand with us.

I am so grateful for our supporters, our staff, and our volunteers. Every day, they are taking action to spread a message of hope and healing to those most in need. When all seems dark, and people may be tempted to despair, we carry a message of light and hope.

Each day, I see lives transformed.

Thank you for being a part of this important work. Because of you, Catholic Charities is making a difference, one person at a time.

I’ve never been prouder of our mission statement, which continues to guide Catholic Charities:

Catholic Charities, a ministry of the Catholic Diocese of Albany, is committed to active witness on behalf of the Scriptural values of mercy and justice.

Catholic Charities, recognizing human need at all stages of life, responds to all persons regardless of race, creed, or lifestyle, with special emphasis on the economically poor and the vulnerable.

Catholic Charities serves and empowers persons in need, advocates for a just society, calls forth and collaborates with women and men of good will in fulfillment of its mission.

Catholic Charities is 100 years old but in some ways it feels like we’re just getting started. We’re going to keep at it, because it’s clear to me that our work is needed more than ever.

Thank you for believing that we can bring out the best in people by responding with love, compassion, dignity, and hope.
 

Vincent W. Colonno

Chief Executive Officer

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany

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