Bishop Michael F. Burbidge encouraged Massgoers to embrace God’s plan for their lives during his homily on the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. He celebrated the Mass with other diocesan clergy at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More in Arlington Dec. 8. The solemnity is a reminder to draw closer to Our Lady during the Marian- themed Year Two of preparation for the Diocesan Golden Jubilee, he said.
“Today reminds us of the very unique call Mary received from God, his divine and mysterious plan for her and how she was equipped for the mission entrusted to her, for the dogma of the Immaculate Conception says that from the first moment of her conception, she was preserved from the stain of sin,” he said. “Like Mary, sometimes we find God’s plan for us a little confusing, overwhelming and maybe even daunting. So, how important it is for us to hear anew the promise given to Mary and in turn, to each one of us — do not be afraid, for nothing will be impossible for God.
“If we draw closer in our relationship to Mary, imitate her trust and faith and remain instruments of her son’s peace, then we will have hearts ready and prepared to celebrate his birth and welcome him when he comes again in glory.”
