Walk Humbly

As Christmas approaches we should remember to take a break; specifically, to think less of ourselves and what we want, and more about others. Look out for those you love and know who may be having some difficulties at this time of year, especially those who are may be overwhelmed or alone. Give them what they need most: your time and listening ear. We should also renew our promise to give quality time to the Lord. Be still, quiet, and restful in his presence, the One who longs to embrace us in his love and mercy. Making time for the Lord and others is the perfect way to prepare for the celebration of Christmas!

As we begin the Season of Advent, we are called to be awake, to be ready, and to be vigilant so we may be prepared on the day Jesus returns in glory. So, throughout Advent, slow down; be sincerely prayerful; seek God's mercy; forgive others; be charitable and help those in need. Keep your priorities in order and draw ever closer to the Lord. Advent also reminds us not to put things off or wait until tomorrow what you can do today. In these ways, you will truly prepare your heart for the celebration of Christmas.

Thanksgiving Day allows us to gather with family and friends to share a meal and reflect upon the many blessings in our lives. Hopefully your Thanksgiving will be one of true gratitude as you offer thanks to God, the source of all good gifts, including the gifts of life, faith, and freedom. We also remember those who are experiencing challenges or struggles. There are many who may not be able to enjoy a warm meal, or who may have an empty seat at their table. As we give thanks to God for his abundant graces, may we commit in some way to reach out to our brothers and sisters in need and share our time and resources with them. What a perfect way to reflect our Thanksgiving to the Lord for all he has done for us.

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge:

• Unpacks the recent U.S. elections as well as the annual fall meeting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops

• Expands on how the Church serves the poor following the 7th annual World Day of the Poor, observed on the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
  • To serve, contact Catholic Charities, the Arlington Council of St. Vincent de Paul, or your local parish
• Elaborates on the recent letter he and Bishop Knestout issued responding to a Virginia House of Delegates committee action on proposed constitutional amendments on abortion, marriage, and restoration of voting rights
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• Clarifies the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception as a holy day of obligation – and an opportunity - for the faithful in the Diocese of Arlington

• Shares his Thanksgiving plans—including the tradition of starting the day with Mass

He also answers the following question from the faithful:

• "The holidays, Thanksgiving in particular, can be a contentious time for some families. I've even heard stories of families not wanting to talk to each other because of their political affiliations. What is your pastoral guidance for families as we approach the upcoming holidays?"

Sacred Scripture often reminds us of the difference between the foolish and the truly wise. The foolish see only that which is in front of them but the wise see through the eyes of faith. The foolish react, but the wise respond by taking time to reflect and discern before deciding and taking action. The foolish have as their goal immediate results, but the wise are focused on the things that are above. The foolish handle situations by themselves, but the wise depend on the strength that comes from God. The decision is ours: to go it alone, or to entrust to our Lord all that we hope to accomplish and to allow ourselves to be carried by him, the One who makes us "truly wise."

This week, we remember our military veterans, both living and deceased, we thank them for their service, and we pay tribute to their sacrifice. Throughout American history, our service members have kept us free, protecting and defending our Constitution and our way of life. Their courage, bravery, and fearlessness built a powerful and enduing foundation for our nation. The challenges they faced and defeated around the world have given our citizens confidence during conflict, brought honor to our country, and earned respect for all who have worn the uniform. Our veterans safeguarded our security on sea, land, and air, To be willing to lose your life so others may live theirs is beyond measure. May we, as a grateful nation, pray for our veterans this week, and always.

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge:

• Offers final encouragement on prayer and forming our consciences in advance of Election Day; access voter resources here

• Highlights one of the special ways the diocese is celebrating National Vocation Awareness Week; watch now: "A Day in the Life of Catholic Priest"

• Shares how the Gospel of Life is and can be embraced through adoption, especially adopting from foster care; learn more about Catholic Charities' Waiting Child program

• Recounts the recent Masses celebrating the Solemnity of All Saints and the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed; watch the homilies from November 1 and November 2

• Shares his upcoming travels to the Diocese of Raleigh to mark its 100th anniversary, and to Baltimore to confer with his brother bishops from across the United States at their annual fall meeting

He also answers the following question from the faithful:

• "It's football season and I enjoy it when the networks show pre-game locker room shots of the players preparing for the game. You get to see such intensity and focus! What is it like to be a priest or bishop before the liturgy? Do you ever get anxious or nervous? Celebrating Masses every day, how do you get fired up?"

As followers of the Lord and in these unsettling times, faithfulness to the ways of God will require sacrifice and courage. Making the right choice may not be the easy choice. Important issues require engagement and involvement rather than indifference. On occasion we may have to separate ourselves from the crowd and risk being rejected, ridiculed, and falsely labeled just for doing what is right. There will be times when we may have to pay a price for bringing our faith into our communities, workplaces and even families. There will be times when conscience dictates that we stand strong as we reject whatever is contrary to the truth. It is precisely at these times that we must ask the Lord for his help to never compromise who we are, and what we believe, so we always remain God's servant first.

As we near election day, the culmination of the noise, the rhetoric, and the harsh tone of political campaigns can become overwhelming. But know that the fliers, the signs, the billboards, and the ads will be gone soon enough. Despite the importance of politics, we may be surprised to find ourselves unsatisfied. It is far more important that we seek that which is enduring and everlasting: true peace in our lives. Our Risen Lord says: "Peace be with you." We will not find peace by embracing the empty promises of the world. We will, however, find comfort and serenity when we stay close to Jesus, trust in his love and mercy, and walk in his ways. He alone gives us the peace for which we long in our world, our nation, and our hearts, the One who say, "Peace be with you."

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge:

• Offers final guidance for Catholics as they head to the polls this election season
  • Click here to access voter resources from the Virginia Catholic Conference

• Emphasizes the upcoming holy days of obligation — the Solemnity of All Saints Day and the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception
  • Mark your calendars: Friday, November 1 and Monday, December 9

• Recaps two especially joyful liturgies with the Hispanic community and married couples celebrating their golden or silver jubilees
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• Encourages all to join him at the Mass in Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed on Saturday, November 2 at Fairfax Memorial Park

He also answers the following question from the faithful:

• "Now that we're entering the month of All Souls, I'm wondering what Bishop Burbidge recommends as far as praying for those who've passed- how long afterwards, any prayer suggestions other than Masses in memoriam, and anything especially for those who've died 'unhappy' deaths."