A full Gospel choir with piano accompaniment and “Amens” from the congregation reverberated through St. Joseph Church in Alexandria for Mass in Celebration of Respect Life Month Oct. 29.
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge was principal celebrant and homilist at the historically Black Catholic church, assisted by Josephite Father Donald M. Fest, pastor, and Deacon Albert A. Anderson Jr., among others.
At the start of Mass, Bishop Burbidge led a moment of silent prayer to Mary for peace in the world.
During his homily, the chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities reflected on the prelates’ theme for the October-long celebration: Radical solidarity with mothers, particularly with women facing difficult or challenging pregnancies.
Such an approach is “needed more than ever,” he said due to “many attacks on the precious gift of human life including the horrific act of abortion.”
Bishop Burbidge said some “mistakenly” believe the Supreme Court settled the abortion issue in the Dobbs decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade.
“The opposite is true,” he said. “It only has been accelerated because as we know the question of legalized abortion is now back to the states as it rightfully should be. So, here in Virginia, where there are no limits to abortion, we need to allow our voices to be heard, and the way we are defenders of human life showing forth radical solidarity is through prayer and witness and advocacy,” he said.
He encouraged Virginia Catholics to participate in statewide elections Nov. 7 “not just as citizens but as faithful citizens.”
The lack of reverence for life, he said, has manifested itself in a host of scourges including racism, bigotry, violence, and neglect for the poor and needy.
The parish planted 40 Days for Life signs around the grounds, including next to a longstanding memorial to the unborn near the main church entrance.
Beverly Anderson, parish business manager, a longtime parishioner and wife of Deacon Anderson, said the Mass was joyful and that she appreciated Bishop Burbidge’s homily message.
“It all came from the heart and when you hear from the heart, it’s authentic,” she said.
