Walk Humbly

Summer offers many of us a rare gift—time to step back, slow down, and find balance.

Work is important, but so is rest. These longer days are a chance to be present—to share a meal with family, laugh with friends, play with your children, and simply enjoy the gift of those around you.

Use this season to renew not just your body, but your spirit.

Go for a walk. Exercise. Relax. Spend time outdoors. Enjoy the beauty of creation. And most importantly—pray. Even a few quiet minutes with God each day can restore your peace and purpose.

God calls us not only to work, but to live fully. Take time this summer to rest, and be renewed in His love.

As we celebrate Independence Day, we give thanks for the blessings of liberty and for all those—past and present—who have courageously defended our freedoms at great personal cost.

The Fourth of July is a joyful time to gather with loved ones, to reflect on our shared values, and to renew our commitment to what it means to be truly free.

Authentic freedom is a gift from God. It allows us to choose what is good, just, and true. May we use our freedom to live with integrity, to serve others generously, and to uphold the values that strengthen our nation.

May God bless you and your families—and may God continue to bless the United States of America.

Bishop Michael Burbidge, Tom Shakely, Kevin Bohli and several WorkCampers describe their experience at the annual service week hosted by the Diocese of Arlington's Office of Youth, Campus and Young Adult Ministry. Hear how their lives are being changed as they serve those in most need.

Listen to the full episode at: https://www.arlingtondiocese.org/category/bishop-burbidge/the-walk-humbly-podcast/

On this episode, Bishop Burbidge:

• Encourages us to pray fervently for peace in the world, especially in Israel, Gaza, Ukraine, and Iran

• Invites us to renew our efforts to locally and nationally advocate for constitutional justice for all persons, especially the vulnerable, as we observe the 3rd anniversary of the Dobbs decision which reversed Roe v. Wade; Read his statement

• Highlights Religious Freedom Week bearing the theme this year of "Witnesses to Hope"

• Chats with WorkCampers Jonathan, Kate, Matt, Sofia, Jonah, and Esther about their experiences so far at WorkCamp 2025, where 140 crews are serving families in more than 100 homes in seven jurisdictions in western Virginia

As we observe Religious Freedom Week, we are reminded that religious liberty allows us to live our faith openly, to serve others with compassion, and to speak the truth with love in the public square.

Religious freedom protects our ability to stand for the life and dignity of every human person. Religious freedom ensures that ministries, schools, and individuals can continue to care for others. Religious freedom makes it possible for us to live in accordance with our faith and sound moral convictions as we love God and serve one another as brothers and sisters.

This Religious Freedom Work, may we give thanks for America's commitment to religious liberty and commit ourselves to always defending it—peacefully, prayerfully, and with courage.

So often we hear, "I will do it when I have more time." But time is limited—and that is what makes it so precious. We are called to use it wisely, not just for ourselves, but for others.

No matter how busy life becomes, the Gospel reminds us of our mandate: love your neighbor. That love is often shown through the gift of time—being attentive, present, listening, and serving.

In a special way, we are called to love and share our time with those who are often forgotten and those in need of consolation. A simple act of presence can become a profound act of love.

Time is fleeting, but love endures. May we use each day to reflect the love of Christ by offering our time and the gift of self to others generously and joyfully.

On Father's Day we honor all the men who lead, protect, and love with courage, strength, and heroic commitment. A father's bond is powerful—marked by presence, sacrifice, and unconditional love.

Fathers are examples to their families: guiding their families by their wisdom, uplifting their families by their encouragement, modeling humility by striving for excellence despite failures, and standing firm in moments of challenge. In our fathers, we see reflections of the steadfast love of our Heavenly Father—who walks with us, watches over us, and never abandons us.

To all fathers, grandfathers, godfathers, and father figures, here or remembered: thank you. Your vocation is sacred and your role irreplaceable. May God bless you abundantly and renew your strength each day.

It is graduation season—a time to celebrate the achievements of all our young people. Across our communities, diplomas are in hand, photos are being taken, and caps are soaring in the air—marking a joyful and momentous time for students and their families.

Now that one chapter is ending, many young people will ask themselves: How should next chapter read?

To every graduate: move forward with faith and courage, seek truth, serve your community, love generously, and remember—you are never alone.

May your next chapter be one of purpose, guided by faith, and rooted in trust. Let God lead you and he will take you to heights beyond what you can imagine.

Congratulations, graduates of 2025.

On this episode, Bishop Burbidge:

• Responds to the tragic killing of two young Israeli Embassy staffers in Washington, D.C. and calls all to prayer and peace.

• Shares early impressions of Pope Leo XIV and the spiritual tone he has set in his first weeks as Holy Father.

• Emphasizes the importance of the Catholic Communications Campaign, which supports spreading the Gospel through modern media

• Celebrates the diocese's upcoming Ordination to the Priesthood of 12 men, reflecting on the beauty and sacredness of the vocation.

• Applauds graduates of the Class of 2025 for their academic, athletic, and faith-filled achievements.

• Extends a heartfelt invitation to the June 4 Pilgrimage of Hope: Mass for Those Who Are Suffering, offering compassion, healing, and solidarity to all who are experiencing suffering of any kind.

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How has Pope Leo inspired hope in you? Text your message or leave a voicemail at 703-778-9100.

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, and many families will gather for celebration, rest, and time together. But at the heart of this day is a solemn and sacred remembrance—the sacrifice of the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation.

The courage of all those who have laid down their lives for us reminds us that freedom is not free. Memorial Day invites us to remember that we are one human family—and our shared story is filled with true heroism, love, and sacrificial service.

As one nation under God, may we remain united in our prayer and in gratitude and respect for those who have served and those who continue to serve, for their families, and for lasting peace today and always.