Bishop Burbidge

Christmas letter from Bishop Burbidge

Bishop Michael F. Burbidge

Christmas, 2018

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

In hope, we rejoice this Christmas, for a light will shine on us this day: the Lord is born for us. On Christmas and each day this coming year, may we seek this Light before all else and allow it to radiate within our diocese, homes and communities.

Even in the midst of the darkness we experience within our world, nation and Church, we are filled with joyful hope as we celebrate the truth that Jesus, our Lord and Savior and the Light of the World, has dispelled the darkness. Therefore, with trust and confidence, we dare to pray for one another. We pray for all who lead and serve within the Church, that enlightened by the new radiance of God’s incarnate Word, what we know in faith will shine through our deeds. We pray that God will show our civil leaders the way of truth, guiding them to defend the sacredness of all human life. We pray that the whole human family will imitate the Holy Family in practicing virtue and in the bonds of charity. We pray that those in need will experience the radiance of God’s love in and through our generosity, goodness and sacrifices. Finally, we pray that we, who know God already by faith, may pass through the shadows of this world to reach the brightness of our eternal home.

Please be assured of a special remembrance at the Masses I will celebrate on Christmas. Through the intercession of Mary our Mother and Saint Joseph, may Our Lord Jesus Christ fill you with the gift of his peace and favor this Christmas and always.

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge

Bishop of Arlington

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