As a new school year approaches, students of all ages prepare to return to classrooms, sports fields, activities, and the rhythm of daily assignments. This is a season filled with promise and the responsibility to grow, learn, and mature.

Yet education is about more than academics. It's true purpose is to form the whole person—mind, heart, and soul.

Parents: you are the first and most important teachers of your children. What you teach at home—especially by your example—will shape the foundation for everything in your child's life to come.

To all students: seek not only knowledge, but wisdom. Keep yourselves open to God and make time for studies as well as prayer.

May we all grow together in the goodness and wisdom that makes for a happy life.

On this episode, Bishop Burbidge speaks on:

• Reflect on his recent experience at the 143rd Knights of Columbus Convention

• React to the historic news of St. John Henry Newman named as the 38th a Doctor of the Church

• Offer heartfelt prayers for those impacted by the recent attacks in Gaza and the tragic church bombing in Komanda, Congo, urging solidarity and peace

• Preview two important upcoming events in our diocese:
  • The USCCB Diocesan Pro-Life Leadership Conference, gathering leaders from across the country in Arlington to strengthen the Church's witness for life
  • The Mental Health Day of Prayer (Aug. 23), focusing on Christ's promise, "I am with you always," and offering hope and healing for those facing trauma and loneliness

• Answer a listener's question on how to remain a hopeful and effective witness for life amid today's challenges; listen and be inspired to live your faith actively and joyfully this week!

It is precisely at times when we feel the weight of the world on our shoulders that we are called to trust in God and to practice compassion.

When we trust in God, we open ourselves to contemplative prayer and listen to his voice speaking to our heart. When we practice compassion we open our hearts to the joys and sorrows of others, and mirror the love of Christ—who loves with an infinite love.

Every day offers a chance to grow in trust, to practice compassion and all the virtues that make for a good life.

Every day offers the chance to surrender to God and walk with one another.

As we grow in trust and compassion, we shine as beacons of light and bring hope to all those we meet.

Laughter is a gift from God—a gentle reminder that even in times of challenge, joy is still possible. A shared smile, a burst of laughter, or a lighthearted moment can lift the heaviest heart and renew our spirit.

In Scripture we read, "A joyful heart is good medicine". (cf. Proverbs 17:22) In moments of distress or sorrow, ask the Lord for the grace to smile again—to embrace hope, healing, and even a little humor when the time is right.

Laughter doesn't erase life's burdens—it helps to carry them.

So, make room for joy. Cherish moments of levity. And give thanks to God, who walks with us through every moment—with love, and strength, and yes, even a gentle smile.

Summer invites us to step outside of the ordinary. Whether you are discovering the beauty of God's creation, visiting someplace new, or simply enjoying a slower pace at home, every moment is a chance to recognize that there really is no such thing as an "ordinary" moment.

Every day is an extraordinary gift and an opportunity to see with new eyes the people, places, and things of our lives. May this summer be a season of gratitude and wonder. In all that we do this summer, may we remember that God travels with us—guiding our steps, inspiring our hearts.

May your summer be filled with joy and may you see with new eyes all the extraordinary gifts that our loving God gives to us each day.

Jesus prayed, "that they may all be one."

It is a prayer that still echoes today—for our families, our communities, and our world so often marked by division.

What if we made our Lord's prayer our mission?

May we let go of bitterness, harsh judgment, and the need to always be right. Instead, may we choose charity. May we forgive one another, listen with compassion, and seek peace in every relationship.

Unity does not mean we agree on everything—it means we love through everything.

May we make the Lords prayer real—by how we speak, act, and live together in harmony as brothers and sisters.

On this episode, Bishop Burbidge speaks on:

• Prayer and Aid for Victims of Texas Flash Floods, opening with prayers for all impacted by the devastating flash floods in central Texas.

• Big Beautiful Bill, and the elimination of the Johnson Amendment offering brief comments on areas we can commend — including sharing the USCCB's strong advocacy for upholding the dignity of every child — and those areas which we can challenge

• National Natural Family Planning (NFP) Awareness Week, reflecting on this year's theme "Pursue a lasting love…Marriage. Create hope for the future," which highlights the beauty of God's design for marriage, the prophetic teaching of Humanae Vitae, and how NFP empowers couples with hope, dignity, and trust

• Quo Vadis and Fiat, sharing how these inspiring summer camps help young men and women discern God's unique call for their lives with openness, faith, and joy

• Diocesan Week of Service, announcing news about the Diocese's first-ever Week of Service this November, calling all parishioners to put Love in Action through Service in Community, rooted in the Spiritual and Corporal Works of Mercy

And answers the following question from the faithful:

• How can I bring my family closer to God during these busy summer months?

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/