Walk Humbly

Sacred Scripture tells the story of Jesus healing a man who could not hear and who was afflicted with a speech impediment. At times, we hear but we do not listen. If we are to hear Jesus speaking to our hearts, we need to be still and silent. Ask him to touch your ears so you become a better listener. At the same time, strive to be charitable in your words. When the words we speak to or about others in person or online are destructive, we crush the spirits of those whom we should love. Ask the Lord to touch your lips this week so you say only the good things people truly need to hear. In these ways, we can give praise to God.

At some point in our lives it is likely we have called on Jesus when circumstances were dire and when there seemed to be little hope for theoutcome we want. We should remind ourselves that the comfort and solace we find in Jesus need not be reserved for times of distress. As he did with his disciples, Jesus walks with us each day. He enlightens, consoles, and guides us. Every day, in every moment, and with every breath our Lord lovingly sustains us. When we realize that we never travel alone during our earthly journey, we can respond well to the challenges that come our way. May we repeat those words of his followers from over two thousand years ago, in times both good and bad, as we say with faith: "Stay with us, Lord."

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge:

• Offers ways to support those impacted by Hurricane Helene; contribute to disaster recovery efforts here

• Prays for peace, joining with Pope Francis in marking one year since outbreak of hostilities in the Holy Land

• Shares how moved he was to see "the face of our diocese in one place" — 3,500 pilgrims and 75 priests! — at the diocesan Golden Jubilee Pilgrimage in Washington, D.C.; watch replays of his homily and the two spiritual reflections offered

• Provides three ways we are called to defend and protect life this Respect Life Month and always

• Comments on how our faith should inform Catholics' thinking about the prospect of casino development in Northern Virginia, and the threat of spiritual enslavement to gambling and sports betting

He also answers the following question from the faithful:

• Are Catholics allowed to celebrate Halloween?

Have you ever assembled something the wrong way, thought an error was irreversible, or perhaps made a mistake from which you felt certain you could not recover? We can become demoralized, disappointed, and maybe even angry with ourselves. We may feel the moment for doing right has passed. In our everyday lives, and especially in our spiritual lives, we can sometimes fall to perfectionism. We convince ourselves that anything less than flawless is a failure in the eyes of God. Yet it is just the opposite! Our sins, flaws, and crosses actually become blessings if they lead us to a profound understanding for our need for God and a deeper reliance on his love and mercy. In our weakness, we avoid discouragement by trusting in the Lord's promise, the One who says: "My grace is sufficient for you."

It is human nature to want to be liked, and to be part of a group that we blend into seamlessly — where "safety in numbers" means we can enjoy acceptance without accountability. But to follow Jesus means we must sometimes separate ourselves from the crowd. This will not be easy, for when we choose to walk with the Lord, we also choose to surrender to his will, and to do what is right and just no matter the cost. Sometimes the path we take will diverge, but a relationship with Jesus will ensure we take the right road. Committing to a life of virtue, faithfulness, humility, and integrity is always possible with the grace of God. Ask for his help so that you may demonstrate you belong to him and are freefrom the control of worldly pressures.

Most of us learn early on that more than 70 percent of the world is covered in water. It is, at times, peaceful and serene to sit by a shore and gaze out at the endless expanse of the ocean, to see this gift of God in all its beauty. At other times, however, the seas can rage, be unforgiving, toss and turn the largest of vessels, and threaten coastlines. Often, due to our daily burdens, we face fear, distress, and helplessness. Like the disciples on the sea, we experience "storms" in life. They can be terrifying and overwhelming unless we remember that Jesus is always in the boat with us. Amid the sufferings and difficulties that come your way, trust in the Lord's power to "calm" the storms and bring you serenity and comfort.

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge:

• Invites all to join the October 5 Golden Jubilee Pilgrimage to the National Shrine of the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Washington D.C., the final event of the diocese's 50th anniversary celebration

• Congratulates five priests from our diocese who Pope Francis has named Chaplains to His Holiness with the title Monsignor

• Applauds the four diocesan parishes and Catholic Charities for launching an ambitious coat drive that ends Sept. 27 — 10,000 coats for needy and vulnerable neighbors

• Remarks on Pope Francis's recent advice to U.S. Catholics voting in the upcoming presidential elections

• Previews two major upcoming events in the diocese: the second annual CALLED Conference for Young Adults on Saturday, September 21, and the upcoming Hispanic Heritage Mass and Festival on Sunday, October 13

He also answers the following question from the faithful:

• "I am in my 20s and am basically the only one in my immediate family still practicing my Catholic faith. It's my hope that my parents and siblings eventually return to the faith. How should I navigate this situation?"

September is Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide is a difficult topic to discuss, especially for those affected by the suicide of a loved one. Tragically, there are more than 48,000 suicides in the United States yearly. Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death among all ages. There are three things we can — no — we must do. First, recognize the warning signs: individuals who seem extremely sad, anxious, withdrawn, agitated, or full of rage need attention and care. Second, be unafraid to invite them to seek help immediately by calling 988, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Third, pray specifically for those in need, asking God to bless them with his healing love.

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge:

• Reflects on the Labor Day holiday and reaffirms the importance and dignity of work

• Acclaims the Golden Jubilee Celebration on September 5 as one of the happiest days of his priesthood

• • Relive the celebration: watch a historical documentary, a walking tour of the Cathedral, and the livestream of the Solemn Mass

• • Read Bishop's September column in the Arlington Catholic Herald

• Welcomes all to make a pilgrimage to the Cathedral and behold its beauty; reminds us of a plenary indulgence opportunity when visiting, and its requirements

• Remembers Mary Stewart, longtime diocesan Director of Risk Management, and invites all to pray for the repose of her soul

He also answers the following question from the faithful:

• As Catholics, how do we balance being aware of what's happening in our national politics, but not being consumed by it?

It is hard to believe that summer ends in less than two weeks. Students are back in school, enjoying their surroundings, making new friends, and taking that next step in a journey that will, pray God, lead to great accomplishments. We will learn about the classes, the faculty, the food, and the fun that the start of a new academic year brings each year to our young people. But will we ask the most important question: How are our loved ones doing spiritually? Parents, you will continue to play a critical role, whether your sons or daughters attend a school across town or a college across the country. Impart upon your children the willingness to stay strong, courageous, and steadfast when their faith may not by embraced, or perhaps even rejected by others. Be their guide and support!