Recently we commemorated the Sixth World Day of the Poor. How providential that we should reflect upon, or better yet, act upon the circumstances of our brothers and sisters who struggle during this time of gift buying, busyness and the hectic holiday season that awaits us. The theme for this year, “For Your Sakes Christ Became Poor”—is a perfect reminder! As Pope Francis related: “Where the poor are concerned, it is not talk that matters. What matters is rolling up our sleeves and putting our faith into practice through a direct involvement, one that cannot be delegated.” As we prepare for the celebrations ahead, may we all commit to sharing at least a bit of our resources—be it time, prayer or assistance—with those most in need.

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge offers his:

Bishop Burbidge also answers the following question from the faithful:

This week we have the great honor and privilege to celebrate Veterans Day, when we pay tribute to military veterans, living and deceased. Think for a moment of the sacrifices made by the men and women who have worn the uniform of our Armed Forces. They put country before self; they put the needs of others before their own; and they selflessly and sacrificially protect our freedoms. Far too often we take their service for granted. Yet invariably, their commitment may incur hardships and challenges, tough times in troubled lands and perhaps deployments in destitute and far away places. At some point this week, may we commit to meeting a veteran, visiting the gravesite of a veteran or, in person or in prayer, thanking a veteran.

Our Lord teaches us the perfect prayer as he tells us to call God our Father, with the assurance that there is no such thing as an unanswered prayer. The response may come at a time we least expect and it may not be what we desire, Yet, the answer comes from our Heavenly Father who intimately knows us and will provide us with – not necessarily what we want ----but always with what we truly need. So, never be discouraged and persevere in prayer. On a daily basis, entrust you cares, needs, and intentions to God. As his beloved sons and daughters, continue to ask, seek and knock and, with profound trust in Our Father’s love for us, conclude every prayer with the words: “Thy will be done.”

One spiritual guide said: “The past is no longer yours; the future is not yet in your power. You have only the present wherein to do good.” Too often days pass by without us having made a positive impact on those around us. We become distracted by our own needs and things we want. It is more about us and less about others. See today as God’s special gift and a remarkable opportunity to spread goodness in whatever place and situation the Lord sends you. Do so by putting yourself at the service of your family and friends and our brothers and sisters in most need. Be charitable, forgiving, compassionate and virtuous. Use the present moment—this day—to spread goodness and to reflect the love of God to all you meet.

These days, it can be challenging to look on the bright side. We see high prices; scarcity of items; weather forecasts that could predict a deluge or a drought. But Sacred Scripture reminds us that “The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord”, beginning with the precious gift of life itself.  There is truth, beauty and goodness in the world all around us. It is in the foliage we see on a drive through the countryside, in the innocent laughter we hear on a playground, and in serenity of a quiet place. These are all part of God’s magnificent creation and reflect His great love and care for us. So, take a moment and thank God for allowing His goodness to be present with us today in so many visible ways.

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge:

• Talks about the importance of the podcast medium
  
  
• Shares which episodes from the last four years of recording stand out to him 
  
  
• Reflects on some of the most downloaded episodes
  
  
• Receives congratulations from USCCB, media professionals, and high school students from within our Diocese

Recently, we had the great privilege of celebrating the annual Mass for People with Disabilities. While we all face challenges in our lives, the vast majority of us, by the grace of God, are able to go about our daily routines without the hardships that so many of our brothers and sisters with intellectual and developmental disabilities face. Their courage, their strength, and often, their pure joy in the face of adversity should be a lesson for all of us. We thank the caregivers whose patience, perseverance and endless love allow those under their care, as much as possible, to lead lives as God intended. May we pray for those who enrich our lives and our communities by showing us how to overcome obstacles with authentic joy and determination.

As we settle in Fall, high schools and colleges are in full swing, with parents learning to adjust to their child’s increasing autonomy. The anxiety parents experience over their children growing into a new, more independent phase of life is understandable. While you hope every decision is the right one, making more judgments on their own means they can make mistakes and choices of which parents might not approve. These are key developmental years, and with less daily interaction, you may feel nervous and apprehensive. But never lose heart. The good seeds you planted will never be in vain. Continue to love and encourage your children; be patient with them; pray for them; and, most importantly, entrust them to God, the one who will guide and lead them on the right path.

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge offers his:

• Reasons you should register for the Eucharistic Symposium on October 22 with Archbishop Emeritus Charles Chaput
• Prayers for those in the path of Hurricane Ian
• Position on the transgender education policy proposal by Governor Youngkin, which would require parents to be notified of their child’s sexual orientation or gender identity
• Click here to access Bishop’s pastoral letter on “A Catechesis on the Human Person and Gender Ideology”
• Read Governor Youngkin’s proposal and offer your voice to the public comment here
• Thoughts on the developing story of a Catholic speaker and author arrested by the FBI for an alleged assault of an abortion facility escort last year
• Appreciation for everyone who has contributed to the Bishop's Lenten Appeal (BLA), which received the Total Annual Appeal Award by the International Catholic Stewardship Conference this year
• Preview of Respect Life Month events taking place in October
• October 11: Holy Hour for post-abortion healing at St. Leo the Great
• October 30: Mass for Respect Life Month at St. William of York
• October 30: Blessing of Mary’s Shelter in Fredericksburg

Bishop Burbidge also answers the following questions from the faithful:

• What sort of training are future priests given in the seminary on both the content and delivery of their sermons?
• I have noticed a poster in my parish promoting the Seminarian Education Endowment Fund. Can you tell me a bit about that?