The Walk Humbly Podcast Catholic Diocese of Arlington

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge: 
 

Previews the Diocesan pilgrimage to Emmitsburg, offers a save the date for the Diocesan Jubilee Festival in 2024 
 
Shares stories and memories of growing up with Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, who recently celebrated their centennial of service at St. James Parish 
 


Read about the impact of religious sisters in our diocese over the years 
 

Highlights why the Diocese prioritizes the celebration of National Migration Week — join him at the Mass for World Day of Migrants and Refugees  
 

Learn how Catholic Charities Migration and Refugee Services is making a difference through education, advocacy and charitable works 
 

Encourages young adults in their joy and zeal, along with parents of students 

 
Bishop also answers the following question from the faithful: 


September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. I’ve heard all sorts of rumors about whether those who commit suicide can enter Heaven. Can you clear this up? 

Through his mercy and grace, Jesus provides us a clear path to peace and happiness. Yet, for many, mental health issues can impede that path. Suicidal thoughts are a particularly difficult struggle for some. September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. In the last year, the CDC reported more than 48,000 suicides. Learn the warning signs that someone is in distress. If a loved one is suffering with suicidal thoughts or actions, know that help is available. United to the healing love of God, we can all be a true friend to those struggling. To those enduring the pain of suicidal thoughts: There is hope even in the darkest moments, and there are people ready to walk with you. Through a friend or the new “988” suicide lifeline, please, reach out for help.

This past weekend, we celebrated the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly in the United States, a remembrance instituted by Pope Francis three years ago. This year’s theme was: “His mercy is from age to age.” Pope Francis reminds us that grandparents and the elderly “are the link between generations, passing on the experience of life and faith to the young.” Commit to making time to remember your grandparents and the elderly, both living and deceased. Follow the path they so unselfishly charted. Always be grateful for their wisdom, gained over their many years, and the role models they have been for you. Most importantly, ensure that your grandparents and elderly friends know the love you have for them and pray that God may bestow his enduring peace upon them.

This week, we celebrate Labor Day, which honors workers who have given of their time, talents and efforts to build a better community, country and world. Many of the privileges that we enjoy—and for which we are so grateful—have their foundation in the tireless commitment of the men and women who strive each day to improve the lives of others. Pope Francis reminds us that “work is an essential component of human life, and even the path of sanctification.” We should always remember the ultimate purpose of our work: to praise God and to serve one another. May we also pray for those who are unemployed or underemployed and ask God to grant them the dignity of work, a just wage and the satisfaction of achievement.

If we are attentive and vigilant, we can notice good qualities and virtues others possess and find ways to compliment and encourage them. Without this thoughtfulness, it is tempting to focus only on their flaws and limitations, which may lead to a lack of charity. Such diversion keeps us from examining our own lives and recognizing what needs to be changed with the grace of God. We should spend our energy participating in the Lord’s call to ongoing conversion within ourselves. At the same time, may we build up others by lifting their spirits and helping them recognize their potential. By doing so, we serve as an example for others rather than their judge. Living in this way will help us grow daily in the virtues of kindness and humility.

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge:

Invites us to pray for our students as they begin a new school year 
Shares why it is vital to pray for those struggling with their mental health Attend the Day of Prayer for Mental Health at All Saints in Manassas, with Mass celebrated by Bishop Burbidge at 11 a.m. this Saturday, August 26 Expresses grave concerns regarding some local public school districts rejecting the model policies of the Virginia Department of Education Read Bishop’s Catechesis on the Human Person and Gender Ideology Affirms how our renovated cathedral will reflect the Diocese’s diverse cultural representation 
Attend the Marian Procession & Mass for Multicultural Communities this Friday, August 25 Spotlights the upcoming Season of Creation taking place from September 1 to October 4 that opens with the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation  Gives advice and encouragement to those who are struggling with work  
Bishop also answers the following question from the faithful:
I found it nothing short of a miracle that the Maria Lanakila Catholic Church in Maui was unscathed by the wildfires but the surrounding area was in ruins. What were your thoughts on this?