Porto Charities’ second annual advocacy awards gala drew more than 400 people for a joyful evening at Bishop Ireton High School in Alexandria April 20.
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge concelebrated Mass with Bishop Emeritus Paul S. Loverde; Father Jamie Workman, diocesan vicar general; and others. Students and young adults of all abilities served as altar servers, readers and Ireton students provided choral accompaniment.
In his homily, Bishop Burbidge spoke about the Gospel reading about Jesus as the Good Shepherd who knows his sheep by name.
“This reality is at the heart of the work of Porto Charities,” he said. “We recognize, respect and reaffirm the dignity that belongs to all persons as children of God. We extend compassion and assistance to those who need us the most, including our brothers and sisters with physical, intellectual and emotional disabilities. We seek to provide education and employment for all people. In other words, in carrying out its mission, Porto Charities proclaims that all of God’s children without exception are to be loved, treasured and embraced.”
A social hour, dinner and the awards presentation were held in the gym.
