A Mass for Persons with Disabilities was celebrated by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge at St. Mark Church in Vienna Oct. 9.
“Life, from the moment of conception to natural death, must be revered, cherished, defended and protected, especially the unborn and the most vulnerable,” Bishop Burbidge said in his homily. “And, in imitation of Jesus, we too must embrace all persons; uphold the dignity that is theirs as children of God; and extend compassion and assistance to those who need us the most, including the persons we honor today, our brothers and sisters with physical and emotional disabilities.”
“You are a special gift to all who know and love you, and indeed to our diocese and the entire church,” he told the congregation. “With you, we also convey profound respect and appreciation to your family and all those who assist you on a daily basis. All of you are in our prayers, especially at this Mass.”
This year, Bishop Burbidge was appointed episcopal moderator for the National Catholic Partnership on Disability.
