Walk Humbly

We remain united in our prayer for peace throughout our world, especially in those lands torn apart by war and violence. We also pray for peace in our own lives. That special gift is ours when we live in right relationship with ourselves and show gratitude for the precious gift of life with which God has blessed us, and stay strong in body, soul, and spirit. The Lord’s peace is ours when we live in harmony with one another; let go of bitterness and anger; and treat one another as members of God’s holy family. Peace is ours when we draw near to God; walk in his ways; follow his commands; and keep our spiritual lives as our highest priority. Live in right relationship with yourself, others, and God and then you will know the peace of the Lord.

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge:  

• Underscores the imperative to vote for our values on Nov. 7 to protect the lives of the most vulnerable  

• • Prepare to vote by reviewing these election resources  

•  Highlights the contributions of Black Catholics within the Church  

• • Learn more about the Black Catholic community in our diocese  

  • Befriend six African Americans on their way to canonization   

• Asks us to renew our respect of “the sacrifices of veterans by becoming instruments of peace in our world” on Veterans Day  

• • Read his statement in honor of Veterans Day  

• Provides pastoral guidance on how to live the universal call to holiness   

• •  Find inspirational stories of those who are answering that call  

This week, we have the great privilege of honoring those who served in the U.S. military when we celebrate Veterans Day. While we are always grateful for their allegiance to our country, we thank our veterans, pay tribute to their sacrifices and pray for them in a special way this week. Throughout our history, men and women in uniform secured our freedom, protected us from aggressors and defended our Constitution and way of life. Why not take some time this week to attend a Veterans Day event or display the U.S. flag? You could call a veteran and thank them for their service. May we learn from their sacrifices and their courage. May God’s abundant blessings always be upon them and may he fill our world with the precious gift of His peace. 

Think for a moment of the times you made a sacrifice for a greater good: a favorite food you resisted to improve your health or the job opportunity you turned down to stay close to loved ones. In our spiritual lives we must surrender certain things to grow closer to our Lord: our plans and desires that are not of God—even relationships that lead us on the wrong path. In letting go, there will never be a void. The Lord will fill that space with exactly what you need, including new gifts, blessings, perspectives and his amazing grace. If we cling, grasp and refuse to let go, we are often paralyzed and do not experience growth. If we surrender and entrust ourselves and our lives to the Lord, we are set free and find newness of life!

In addition to weather forecasts that predict occasional inclement conditions and heavy precipitation, our own lives may include difficult “storms.” Like Jesus’ disciples out on a boat in the rough sea, we may feel the waves tossing and fear the waters will overwhelm us. These storms of life can involve physical or emotional suffering, personal or family struggles, fractured relationships or increased stress and anxiety due to the daily expectations. Remember though, Jesus is in the boat with you, keeping you from sinking, if only you take his hand. The One who cries out: “Take courage, it is I...do not be afraid.” Do not rely on yourself to calm the seas of life. Rest in God and he will bring you peace.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Domestic violence is a crime that often takes place behind closed doors, at times by the people we least expect. Yet we must acknowledge the reality that in the United States, 20 people – both women and men – are physically abused by an intimate partner every minute. That is 10 million people every year. Being a victim of domestic violence is correlated with higher rates of depression and suicidal behavior. Therefore, it is important to learn the warning signs of domestic abuse, such as controlling behaviors, isolation from loved ones, excessive jealousy or verbal humiliation. If we spot potential domestic violence, we must also have the courage to report it to the authorities. May we pray that God provide victims and survivors protection and consolation in their time of need. 

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge:  

• Implores the faithful to be united in prayer for Israel
  • Read his statement following the declaration of war by Israel 
• Summarizes the recent diocesan pilgrimage to Emmitsburg, MD 
• Shares his hopes for Catholics amid this election season and Respect Life Month 
  • Find election resources, including district information, here 
• Highlights the goals of the Synod on Synodality taking place in Rome
  • Here’s what you need to know about the Synod 
• Reflects on Pope Francis’ latest apostolic exhortation, “Laudate Deum” 
  • Read more about his thoughts here 

We all experience the occasional sleepless night–when stress causes us to rehash a hectic day or worry about how we will meet the demands of tomorrow. We fall victim to the adage there is “so much to do, so little time.” When this occurs, it is like a warning light in your car. It is a signal to slow down and pay attention. Whatever is on your list may not be the most important task. Jesus tells us that our relationship with God and our care for one another should take precedence over everything else. Evaluate your priorities today. When they are in proper order, your life moves from chaos and distress to serenity and joy. In this way, you will not only enjoy a good night’s sleep–you will also find peace!

This week, we conclude a month-long recognition of The Season of Creation, during which we reflected on the beauty of our world and how we can ensure that future generations will experience the magnificence of God’s earthly handiwork. We are all responsible for the care of our common home. Pope Francis reminds us “to embrace the renewal of our relationship with creation so that we no longer see it as an object to be exploited, but cherish it instead.” Here are four ways to live this call: Pray that we accept our duty to respect the natural world; educate ourselves and others on how to care for God’s creation; act as good stewards to protect the Earth and advocate for measures that ensure the health of our shared home—a gift from our heavenly Father.

This past weekend, we celebrated the World Day of Migrants and Refugees. People leave their home countries for many reasons: perhaps to be with family or to start a new career. But for others, their lives are in danger and staying is simply not an option. Everyone deserves to live free from fear and persecution and should be allowed to pursue personal opportunity. As we reflect on the difficult, often heart-breaking circumstances confronting so many migrants—including refugees from violence and war and victims of human trafficking—we must consider how we can help those most vulnerable people. This includes welcoming migrants and refugees and keeping them in our prayers. May we serve all of our brothers and sisters, for by doing so, we grow closer to our Lord, Jesus Christ.