That the scourge of racism remains more than 60 years after the death of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. should not prompt despair, but rather motivation for Catholics to pray and work to uphold the dignity of all persons as children of God, Bishop Michael F. Burbidge said during a Mass honoring the civil rights leader in Arlington Jan. 18.
Bishop Burbidge celebrated a Mass in recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day at a packed Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, whose parishioners recently marked its 80th anniversary. It was established in 1945 in response to the request of 16 Black Catholics for a parish in Arlington County where they could worship properly. At Sunday’s Mass, a portrait of King adorned the sanctuary and a rousing Gospel choir performed soulful, spiritual songs, to the applause of the congregation, including “We Shall Overcome.”
In his homily, Bishop Burbidge spoke of the prophet Isaiah’s admonition to be “a light to the nations,” reflected in King’s work and his stirring words that only light can drive out darkness and love drive out hate.
“If we try to dispel the darkness of the world on our own, we are doomed to failure,” Bishop Burbidge said. “We must depend completely on the Lord and his saving power as we entrust our world and nation to his loving care and protection. We also must pray daily for our elected leaders and ourselves asking the Lord to inspire, enlighten, and guide us so we may be truly wise.”
“Dr. King worked for the equality of all people, no matter creed, color, race or background,” he said. “He persevered even amid rejection, ridicule and threats. He sought reconciliation so that we could join hands as brothers and sisters. He gave of himself without ever counting the cost.”
His example is one we should emulate in fealty to Our Lord and in carrying out his work, Bishop Burbidge said. “Yes, we know the darkness of our world. Yet, we do not despair,” he said. “We believe, we pray and we act ever confident in the healing and miraculous power of Jesus Christ, the light who dispels the darkness.”
At a reception following Mass, Joseph Brooks, a parishioner of St. Joseph Church in Alexandria and chair of the diocesan Black Catholic Ministry, reflected on the ministry’s work and Bishop Burbidge’s words. Since starting his position approximately one year ago, Brooks has been going to different parishes to raise awareness, reach more Black Catholics and grow the ministry.
“I thought the Mass was great,” he said, emphasizing how the choir added to the liturgy’s beauty. “I thought Bishop Burbidge’s message was fantastic.”
Schweers can be reached at [email protected].
