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/

On this episode, Bishop Burbidge:

• Encourages us to pray fervently for peace in the world, especially in Israel, Gaza, Ukraine, and Iran

• Invites us to renew our efforts to locally and nationally advocate for constitutional justice for all persons, especially the vulnerable, as we observe the 3rd anniversary of the Dobbs decision which reversed Roe v. Wade; Read his statement

• Highlights Religious Freedom Week bearing the theme this year of "Witnesses to Hope"

• Chats with WorkCampers Jonathan, Kate, Matt, Sofia, Jonah, and Esther about their experiences so far at WorkCamp 2025, where 140 crews are serving families in more than 100 homes in seven jurisdictions in western Virginia

As we observe Religious Freedom Week, we are reminded that religious liberty allows us to live our faith openly, to serve others with compassion, and to speak the truth with love in the public square.

Religious freedom protects our ability to stand for the life and dignity of every human person. Religious freedom ensures that ministries, schools, and individuals can continue to care for others. Religious freedom makes it possible for us to live in accordance with our faith and sound moral convictions as we love God and serve one another as brothers and sisters.

This Religious Freedom Work, may we give thanks for America's commitment to religious liberty and commit ourselves to always defending it—peacefully, prayerfully, and with courage.

So often we hear, "I will do it when I have more time." But time is limited—and that is what makes it so precious. We are called to use it wisely, not just for ourselves, but for others.

No matter how busy life becomes, the Gospel reminds us of our mandate: love your neighbor. That love is often shown through the gift of time—being attentive, present, listening, and serving.

In a special way, we are called to love and share our time with those who are often forgotten and those in need of consolation. A simple act of presence can become a profound act of love.

Time is fleeting, but love endures. May we use each day to reflect the love of Christ by offering our time and the gift of self to others generously and joyfully.