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This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. This week we remember and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as a civil rights leader. Last year during a summer of racial tension in our country, we were forced, once again, to face the evil of racism and reflect on its tragic impact on our communities. We have much work to do, and it will take a commitment from all of us. One of the lights on the path of racial justice is Dr. King’s call for us to work peacefully and diligently for cultural, social, and governmental change. These efforts remain essential to our Christian work and witness in the world. Working together to eradicate racism with the help of God is an ongoing process rooted in faith, hope, and love. For as Dr. King himself reminded us, “Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend.”

In this week’s episode of the Walk Humbly Podcast: What does the Capitol Hill riot indicate about our country, and what is the path forward? How to be witnesses of Christ in today’s culture Advice on how to approach the presidential inauguration Several dangerous bills introduced in the Va. legislature Holy Father changes canon law related to instituted lectors and acolytes Bishop Burbidge reflects on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and how his message can help us today Bishop Burbidge answers this question from the audience: How do I know if I am qualified to teach religious education to young people?

This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. As we plan for this year, many of us will face a budget crisis, whether it be in our personal finances, our family finances, or perhaps for a group or organization to which we belong. In addition, we continue to face a pandemic affecting family, friends, and loved ones, some of whom who may have succumbed to the virus, heightening our stress and anxiety. At times, we may develop a sense of loss and loneliness. Often the demands, pressures, and responsibilities of life can seem overwhelming, and they always will be, if we rely solely on our own resources. Let us pray for the grace, the courage and the confidence to take our concerns and crosses to Our Heavenly Father, the source of consolation, so that we can say with renewed faith and confidence, “I have the strength for everything through Him who empowers me.”

This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. January is Poverty Awareness Month. While poverty has always been in our midst, perhaps we have never been so aware of that reality as we witnessed first-hand during the pandemic. Food banks became strained, people had trouble paying utility bills, some faced eviction, and those who never had to ask for assistance suddenly found themselves in long lines to secure groceries in order to feed their families. Sacred Scripture tells us: “stretch forth your hand to the poor (Sir 7:32).” Pope Francis reminds us that our generosity should be one that “supports the weak, consoles the afflicted, relieves suffering, and restores dignity to those stripped of it.” This responsibility to serve our neighbor is essential to who we are as people of faith. For we all know that when we extend our hand to help the poor, we, in fact, serve the Lord himself, and grow rich in His sight.  

This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. Even in the midst of the darkness we are experiencing in our world, I pray that you are filled with joyful hope. After all, unto us is born a Savior—Christ the Lord, the Light of the world. He has dispelled the power of darkness. We pray that those in need will experience the radiance of the love of God in and through our faithfulness, goodness, and sacrifices. May we be instruments of His peace and compassion in a world that desperately needs the witness of our faith and unity. Our Lord’s birth renews us in the hope and peace that comes from Him alone. Dear friends, no matter the burdens and crosses you may be carrying, know that His Light shines bright, and forever. May Our Lord fill you with the gift of his peace, this Christmas and always.

In this week’s episode of the Walk Humbly Podcast: Bishop Burbidge is serving on a committee to advise President-elect Biden on what the Church believes on key moral issues The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops clarifies whether you can morally receive COVID vaccines Pope Francis announced a Year of St. Joseph Bishop Burbidge reflects on what Christmas is all about Bishop Burbidge answers these questions from the audience: Which changes in technology, what will the Church look like in 20 years? Joe Biden is publicly Catholic, as well as pro-abortion. How should Church leaders respond? Va. Governor Northam said, “You don't have to sit in the church pew for God to hear your prayers.” What is your reaction?

This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. As Christmas nears, many of us will overload the internet with online shopping or take that last trip to the store. We too will be appreciative of any gifts we receive in less than two weeks. Maybe we will get that electronic device we wanted, the team jersey we hoped for, or the gift certificate to our favorite retailer. However, we have to be vigilant with how much we accumulate, for when the time comes to leave this world, Our Lord will not judge us according to the things we have. He will judge us by our faith, and what we shared and gave away to others, especially those in need. Jesus said that when we serve the poor, we also serve him. So spend these last days of Advent enjoying the season, but most importantly, by trying to grow “rich” in what matters to God.

This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. Think of how many times in our lives things change in an instant. During our lifetime, we will receive good news and bad news. We will experience times of great joy and immense sorrow. But when we commit to remaining strong, spiritually and emotionally, say yes to God’s will, and realize everything is in His plan, it is then that we can trust and surrender. Fear subsides and strength prevails. As Advent concludes in a few weeks, we will soon hear the story of the three wise men, perhaps the ultimate tale of trust. Setting out to pay homage to Our Lord, they had only a star as their compass. Say yes to the Lord’s will every day, so that in times of light and darkness and indecision, we can trust and surrender, leaving any outcome in God’s providential hands.

This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. This week we begin our journey to the glorious morning of Christmas! Yet how easy it will be to allow ourselves to become sidetracked, to become distracted, to find our attention waning with all that goes into planning for the holidays. But Sacred Scripture tells us to “Be Watchful! Be Alert!” So dear brothers and sisters, over these next four weeks, be on guard. Advent reminds us that nowis the time to transform our lives, to be more consistent with prayer, to spend quality time with loved ones, and to help the poor and needy. Remember that no sin is greater than God’s mercy. Gently and lovingly pray for those who have wandered from the Church to return home for Christmas. Do not put off until tomorrow what needs to be done today.  

Also, Bishop Burbidge appoints a new Catholic Charities CEO/President In this week’s episode of the Walk Humbly Podcast: Bishop Burbidge shares his message for Thanksgiving Two well-known and well-loved priests passed away last week: Msgr. Robert Avella and Fr. Michael Dobbins A new Catholic Charities CEO/President has been announced Bishop Burbidge offers additional thoughts on what he learned from the “McCarrick Report” Catholic Charities launches a second Mother of Mercy Clinic The “Just One Yes” campaign is back! What’s your “yes?”   Bishop Burbidge answers this question from the audience: Our diocese was formed out of the Diocese of Richmond. What goes into the decision to create a new diocese out of an older one?

This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. In the midst of our current challenges it is my fervent hope that this week we all look for—and find—those gifts for which we can be most grateful. Our faith, our family, our friends. We give thanks to all those who continue to stand on the front lines in combating a pandemic, for all who have extended a hand in providing food for the poor and homeless, for those assisting the newly unemployed, for all those who put their lives on the line to defend the defenseless, and for those who are committed to the education of their children and our students no matter the model or the hurdles. For all these people we are so grateful. Above all, may we express our gratitude to God for his many gifts by sharing them and our resources with those in most need. Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving next week, many adult children will return home to the loving embrace of parents. In these challenging times, parents undoubtedly worry about their sons and daughters, especially those who live far away from home. Some, for one reason or another, may have even wandered away from the faith upon which they were raised. Parents, if your child does not appear to have the religious convictions and faith you want for them, do not become discouraged. Rather, keep planting the seeds of faith. Never tire of asking God for the grace for your children to return to their spiritual home. Look for the opportunity for discussion, continue to love and encourage them, and perhaps extend an invitation to join you at church. But know this: If they see your love for them, they will know the doorway of faith is always open.

In this week’s episode of the Walk Humbly Podcast: Bishop Burbidge discusses the results of the 2020 Election and how Catholics should respond The “McCarrick Report” has been released. Bishop Burbidge discusses what this means and how we can comfort victims at this time.

This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. This week marks the culmination of months of campaigning for national, state, and local offices, all of which are sure to affect our lives in ways big and small. Some will celebrate and feel relief. Others will feel frustrated and disappointed. Dear brothers and sisters, let us not revel or wallow over the results. Instead let us remember that our great nation should be unified in serving God, the King of all Kings. No matter the outcome, we should vow that this is the time to show unity, respect, and civility for our fellow citizens, as well as for those that are elected into office. Our country needs to heal. In order to move forward as a people and as a community, we must be committed to showing that despite our differences we remain now, and always will be, “One Nation Under God.”

This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. As our nation counts down the days to the election, we are reminded that it is our constitutional right, privilege, and sacred duty to vote, especially with so much at stake. But we must do so asinformedcitizens who know the issues and the positions of the candidates. In addition, we must be faithful citizens who bring our beliefs and moral convictions into the public arena. Our vote is not the only decision we must make. We must also decide how we will contribute to the work of peace, after the election is over. Each of us can participate in unifying our fractured nation and contributing to the common good. Lastly, we must pray for our elected leaders, that God will give them sound judgment and the courage to do what is right in service to our great nation.  

In this week’s episode of the Walk Humbly Podcast: Uplift Arlington is back with the theme “One Nation, Under God” on Oct. 28 The Archbishop of Washington DC will be named a Cardinal by Pope Francis Pope Francis’ comments on civil unions Father Michael McGivney, the founder of the Knights of Columbus, to be beatified on Oct. 31 National Vocations Awareness Week, Nov. 1-7 – what you need to know! Bishop Burbidge answers these questions from the audience: How was the Diocese able to reopen schools when public schools chose to remain closed? What factors will you consider when you decide to lift the dispensation from attending Sunday Mass?

This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. So many individuals, including some in our families and communities, sadly, suffer from addiction and substance abuse. For some it all started with prescription drugs after a surgery or procedure. For others it may have been an escape from the harsh realities we deal with in life. God wants you to experience his healing love so you can leave behind the darkness of addiction and find new freedom. He has gifted us with the tools to overcome that darkness: professionals with expertise, hotlines, and addiction resources. Please know that if you have a substance abuse problem or you are a loved one of an individual with a substance abuse issue, you do not walk alone. God is there to accompany you through your trials and difficult times. Help awaits, both nearby and from above, and asking for that help is the first step to recovery.  

On this episode of The Walk Humbly Podcast: What Bishop Burbidge learned by visiting our high schools What role should abortion play in our vote? Pope Francis’ new encyclical asks us to pause and reflect on concrete actions we can take to improve fraternal love and social friendship Questions from the faithful: How does an individual maintain optimism while trying to uphold one’s Catholic values in today’s political climate? Do pastors and parochial vicars receive training in financial and business matters?

This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. In life, we all have regrets and worries. We regret things we did yesterday or in the past: the poor decisions, the failures, and the disappointment we have caused others. Our worries, however, are often rooted in days that have not yet come: the apprehension, the fear, and the unease about tomorrow and the future. Dear friends, when you sense sadness about something you cannot change, or anxiety over what has yet to occur, I invite you to remember the words of St. Alphonsus Liguori: “The past is no longer yours; the future is not yet in your power. You have only the present wherein to do good.” May we embrace this day as God’s gift to us and let nothing from the past or anything in the future take away from the blessings, peace and joy he wishes to give us at this present moment. 

This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. Recently our diocese had the great privilege of celebrating an annual Mass for husbands and wives married for 25 or 50 years or even longer! Faithful married love, what a beautiful gift! Married love is a sign of the way that God loves us. Therefore, whenever we look at a married couple, we should be able to say: “Do you see how they love one another? That is the exact same way that God loves us.” So we pray for all married couples, that their love, like God’s love, will be permanent, faithful and life giving. Wepray that the love they share will grow stronger with the passing of each new day. So, married couples, why not use today to recallthe promises you have made to one another and never forget that at the heart of your vocation is the sacred duty to help each other get to heaven?