The Walk Humbly Podcast Catholic Diocese of Arlington

As we are in the midst of yet another hectic holiday, I hope that all of you will experience the joy, the excitement and the elation of this time of year. This season offers us two invitations that are far more important than shopping and social gatherings: the invitation to forgive others, and to serve others. This is the perfect time to reconcile with friends, family and loved ones. If you are struggling to forgive someone who has offended you, recall the countless times God embraced you in his divine mercy. It is also an opportune time to extend a helping hand in service to our brothers and sisters in need. Be assured that as you forgive and serve others you will bring joy and peace to them and be found pleasing in the sight of God.

This week, as we either travel or welcome family and friends to our homes for Thanksgiving, we must remind ourselves that this special day is much more than dinner and dialogue. To truly appreciate the warmth this season brings, commit to doing three things: First, set aside time each day this week to pray, giving thanks to God for his abundant blessings in your life; second, seek opportunities to help those less fortunate, those who may not have the benefit of a hot meal or who lack basic necessities; third, make a pledge that the gratefulness you experience this Thanksgiving will last, not just for one day, but will continue during the holiday season and, indeed, throughout the year. I pray that each of you enjoy Christ’s blessings on this holiday and always. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family! 

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge:  
- Recaps the USCCB plenary assembly and what he found most memorable from hearing about his brother bishops’ participation in the Synod 

- Entrusts the removal of Bishop Strickland as bishop of Tyler, Texas to the Holy Spirit and invites us to pray for him

- Explains why the threat of abortion remains the "preeminent" priority of the United States bishops (see "Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship," p. 6) 
- Reacts to the recently announced theme of the January 19, 2024 March for Life: With Every Woman, For Every Child 

Join thousands at Life is VERY Good events on January 18 and 19, 2024   
- Describes what Solemn Vespers is and previews what is in store at the November 26 event inaugurating the diocesan Golden Jubilee year  

- Offers clarity on the recent Vatican document discussing sacraments and gender dysphoria  


Read or listen to Bishop Burbidge’s pastoral document on Gender Ideology
- Affirms why catechists are essential teachers of the Faith, second to parents
- Talks about his Thanksgiving plans and reminds us of what this holiday is all about 

We remain united in our prayer for peace throughout our world, especially in those lands torn apart by war and violence. We also pray for peace in our own lives. That special gift is ours when we live in right relationship with ourselves and show gratitude for the precious gift of life with which God has blessed us, and stay strong in body, soul, and spirit. The Lord’s peace is ours when we live in harmony with one another; let go of bitterness and anger; and treat one another as members of God’s holy family. Peace is ours when we draw near to God; walk in his ways; follow his commands; and keep our spiritual lives as our highest priority. Live in right relationship with yourself, others, and God and then you will know the peace of the Lord.

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge: 
 

Underscores the imperative to vote for our values on Nov. 7 to protect the lives of the most vulnerable 
 

Prepare to vote by reviewing these election resources 
 

 Highlights the contributions of Black Catholics within the Church 
 

Learn more about the Black Catholic community in our diocese 
 
Befriend six African Americans on their way to canonization  
 

Asks us to renew our respect of “the sacrifices of veterans by becoming instruments of peace in our world” on Veterans Day 
 

Read his statement in honor of Veterans Day 
 

Provides pastoral guidance on how to live the universal call to holiness  
 

 Find inspirational stories of those who are answering that call  

This week, we have the great privilege of honoring those who served in the U.S. military when we celebrate Veterans Day. While we are always grateful for their allegiance to our country, we thank our veterans, pay tribute to their sacrifices and pray for them in a special way this week. Throughout our history, men and women in uniform secured our freedom, protected us from aggressors and defended our Constitution and way of life. Why not take some time this week to attend a Veterans Day event or display the U.S. flag? You could call a veteran and thank them for their service. May we learn from their sacrifices and their courage. May God’s abundant blessings always be upon them and may he fill our world with the precious gift of His peace.