Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Today we rejoice in the birth of Our Savior! His arrival, foretold by prophets throughout the centuries, brings to the world a great mystery of our faith: this tiny baby, wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a humble manger — born of a virgin — was both human and divine. He is both our Creator and our Savior; both the Eternal Word, who existed before the beginning, and a man, who dwells among us.
In response to this mystery, our Blessed Mother proclaims, “My soul rejoices in the Lord!” These words are also the theme for this second preparatory year toward our diocesan Golden Jubilee celebration in 2024. We rejoice with her, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the incarnate Savior.
Jesus’ birth was marked by a star shining in the sky. The light that Christ brought into the world on this day has shone brightly for two millennia. It has revealed God’s glory as it has guided Christians to love one another, protect the vulnerable, care for the poor, serve those in need, educate children, heal the sick, welcome the newcomer, work for justice and live in peace with our neighbors.
As we celebrate the true Light coming into the world, may we strive daily to walk in that light always! May we also renew our promise to bring others into the light by sharing the love that God has for us, his beloved sons and daughters.
Please be assured of my prayers for you! May your soul rejoice in the Lord and may his peace and abundant blessings be yours this Christmas and always.
Sincerely in Christ,
Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge
Bishop of Arlington
