Kathie Lee Gifford Reflects on Faith and Philanthropy

Kathie Lee Gifford has a long history of faith that shapes her life. Since her younger days, she’s leaned on her Christian beliefs, describing herself as, well, “anti-religious.” This past Saturday, during a gala event for Childhelp’s Drive the Dream in Phoenix, Arizona, she opened up about her relationship with God, her views on generosity, and her belief that religion sometimes “puts people in chains.”

“The Bible talks about constant prayer, and I think our lives should reflect that. It’s all about dialogue with the Lord. I’m really not a fan of religion; it tends to restrict people while Jesus frees them,” Gifford, who is 72, shared.

Interestingly, she insists there’s no distinction in her life between the secular and spiritual. “I don’t say, ‘Here’s my acting life, and here’s my charitable work.’ It’s all woven together by God’s teachings and guidance,” she explained.

Gifford acknowledged living a “privileged life,” noting that she feels different from most people. “I’ve never been one to script my thoughts in front of others, and when I speak, it’s really about what the Holy Spirit directs me to say,” she shared.

Despite facing her share of hardships, Gifford finds comfort in the Bible. “The scripture tells us not to worry—God’s got this, and His guidance is always with us,” she emphasized. She added that her sleepless nights stem more from aging than worry. “Before I speak, I just pray for direction,” she noted.

Her commitment to children’s welfare shines through her work with Childhelp, an organization focused on helping abused and at-risk youth. “I’ve always advocated for children long before I got involved with Childhelp in 1996. We’re all made in God’s image, regardless of race or background,” Gifford stated. “Jesus encourages us to embrace children, not hold them back.”

Gifford shared her belief in the power of giving. “I pray for a generous heart, as I’ve learned the more I give, the more blessed I feel. It’s an unbreakable concept that truly works,” she affirmed.

In her candid reflections, she expressed anger towards child abuse, recognizing its long-lasting impacts. “It infuriates me when kids are hurt; they often seek love and support for the rest of their lives after such trauma. Sadly, this can lead to poor decisions and deeper struggles,” she commented.

Yet, she remains hopeful about the impact Childhelp can have. “Many kids can find forgiveness and purpose through our efforts, and I aspire to be one of those voices of care in their lives,” she concluded.