October 15, 2025

What we see unfolding in our nation is a vicious pattern of hatreds rooted in the rejection of God, of the dignity of the human person, and the sanctity of the family. We can eradicate these ills only through a firm reliance on God, through a deeper devotion to Christ and the Gospel, through a sincere love for persons reflected in law, and through a renewed commitment to justice and public order.

We are living through a perilous moment. Our challenge is not only one of partisan disagreement, law, and policy, but in a deeper way our challenge is to uphold the central goods of American political life: of faith, of families, and of a national commitment to live together in harmony as brothers and sisters.

Bishop Michael Burbidge
Bishop of Arlington, VA                  


Dear Parishioners,

If someone were to ask us, “What do you need today?” how might we answer? We might not even reflect or have the time to know the answer – the true answer to this important question. Or perhaps we know but   allow ourselves to be sidetracked or numbed by something less than what we truly need.

For example, many of us might need rest – to slow our pace. Or perhaps we need more quality time with loved ones, or more time for prayer. Perhaps what we truly need is growth in discipline and self-control, or someone who can offer us encouragement and accountability. 

“What do you need?” is a question worthy of our attention and reflection. We know we are struggling, but we don’t know where to start to find the peace for which we long.

The Gospel speaks to this challenge. God will not fail to answer if we ask him where our deepest needs lie. If we bring this essential question to him, he will answer. In telling the parable of the widow and judge – who makes a decision for the widow because she is persistent – Jesus says, Pay attention to what the dishonest judge says. Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night? Will he be slow to answer them? I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily.

Ultimately, regardless of the specifics of our lives, if we dig deep enough, if we take the time to reflect and pray with this question, we will always arrive at the same answer: we need God. What we long for is infinite, it knows no end. And the only source of infinite goodness is God. We can, and must, persist in our entreaties to him, for he alone is the source of our good, and the source of all things. 

Many scripture readings emphasize this need. Whether we are facing a battle of some sort, or need to be equipped for every good work, we must persistently turn to the source of everything good, and true, and beautiful. God is faithful and will respond to our truest needs.

Let us receive Jesus with joy when we come to the Eucharistic table. Let us trust his generosity, made tangible in this sacrament. And let us open our hearts to be guided as we go forth from this place.

God Love Ya!
Fr. Reilly