Bishop Michael F. Burbidge celebrated the Solemnity of All Saints at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More in Arlington Nov. 1.

In his homily, Bishop Burbidge said, “The Solemnity of All Saints reminds us of a reality that we often do not reflect upon. Namely, our life here on earth is merely a journey and, as we continue it, we share a common goal and destination: to become a saint and to live with God forever in heaven.

“To examine our progress on this path to holiness,” Bishop Burbidge said, “I suggest that later today you re-read the Beatitudes just proclaimed. Those who live them, Jesus says, are considered to be among the ‘blessed.’

“St. Francis de Sales tells us to look at the variety of saints and find out how they arrived at heaven. He says: ‘The apostles got there especially through love; the martyrs through steadfastness; the confessors through sacrifice, the virgins and religious through purity of heart, but all of them through humility!’

“It is humility that helps us to recognize that, as we strive daily to grow in holiness, we must not rely on ourselves,” Bishop Burbidge said. “We are completely dependent upon the Lord’s grace and divine mercy. These are pure gifts given to us by a generous God who seeks to embrace us in his infinite love.

The Bishop said that to assist us on our earthly journey, the Church teaches us that the Lord gives us saints to guide us and to intercede for us. “Call upon them,” the Bishop said. “Ask for their help and walk in their company so that one day we too may hear the Lord say: ‘Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven!’

“Mary our Mother, St. Joseph and all the saints pray for us today and always. Amen.”