Bishop Michael F. Burbidge celebrated Mass to Pray for Healing
for Victim Survivors of Sexual Abuse at St. Charles Borromeo Church in
Arlington Feb. 25.
The bilingual Mass, sponsored by the diocesan Victim Assistance
Office, was concelebrated by Father Thomas P. Ferguson, vicar general and
pastor of Good Shepherd Church in Alexandria; and Father Donald J. Planty,
pastor of St. Charles. Deacon Marques R. Silva, director of the Office of Child
Protection, assisted.
In his homily, Bishop Burbidge said God’s mercy brings us up when
we are down and can make us whole again when we are broken.
He said in the Gospels when Jesus was approached, the focus was on
the faith of the recipient. “Do you believe I can do this? Then it’s your faith
that has healed you.”
Bishop Burbidge acknowledged that everyone in church was in need
of healing.
“We say, ‘Lord, make me whole again.’ The Lord asks us if we
believe. Some strongly say, ‘Yes, Lord, I do believe,’ while others, for many
different reasons, aren’t there yet. We can’t make that same strong act of
faith that we would like.”
Bishop Burbidge told those who are not there yet to not be
frustrated. “Faith is a process. Sometimes it is strong and other times not so
much,” he said. “What is miraculous is that you are here tonight by the grace
of God.”
The Bishop told the congregation to never tire of acknowledging
to the Lord what it is in their lives that is in need of healing. “God never
tires of hearing us and responding in love and mercy. It is my hope and prayer
that these gifts will be yours tonight and always,” said Bishop Burbidge.
A reception followed the Mass. Attendees could find out more
information about services or speak with Aneliz Sipe, victim assistance
coordinator.
Find out more
Call Analiz Sipe, victim assistance coordinator, at 703/841-2530
