Bishop Burbidge

Statement from Bishop Burbidge on Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Bishop Michael F. Burbidge (center) celebrates Mass at St. Joseph Church in Alexandria Jan. 14 in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He is assisted by Deacon Al Anderson (left) and Josephite Fr. Donald Fest, pastor. JIM ENGELHARDT | COURTESY

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January 15 offers the opportunity to celebrate Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday, whose life devoted to ending prejudice and racism is an inspiration for all people, regardless of their faith tradition or ethnicity.

 

Events such as those in Charlottesville remind us that racism is an evil that still plagues our country, resulting in anger, violence and discord. Those who hold to corrupt and disjointed views need God’s grace and our unfailing and untiring witness rooted in the dignity of each and every person.

Dr. King reminds us that “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” Jesus is the true Light that drives out darkness and His Love overcomes all hatred. On this observance of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., may we entrust our hearts and the hearts hardened by hatred and prejudice to Our Lord Jesus, in whom we place our prayers, our hope and our dreams.

In my first year as the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, I have been blessed to witness the strength and faith of our culturally diverse communities, including our vibrant and devout Black Catholic community. I take this opportunity to thank them for their faithful and steadfast witness to Christ’s Church and to our communities.

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