Frequently Asked Questions

Learn how the Diocese of Arlington protects children, reports abuse and assists victims of sexual abuse

View our question and answer resource that answers many of the questions parishioners have asked over the past several weeks.

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Diocesan Press Releases

Diocese of Arlington priest, serving in Purcellville, placed on leave

Friday, December 7, 2018

Bishop Michael F. Burbidge has placed Father Ronald S. Escalante, Pastor of Saint Francis de Sales Church, Purcellville, on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation of alleged boundary violations involving a minor and adults which transgress the Code of Conduct for Clergy in the Diocese of Arlington.

In accord with diocesan policy, these allegations were reported to local law enforcement and considered by the Diocesan Review Board. Father Escalante denies the accusations, and he has stated that he is cooperating fully with the investigation...

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Visiting Priest Named Bishop of Kaya, Burkina Faso, West Africa

Friday, December 7, 2018

Pope Francis has named and appointed Reverend Théophile Naré, a priest currently serving as parochial vicar at St. John the Evangelist in Warrenton, as the Bishop of Kaya in Burkina Faso, West Africa. Bishop Michael Burbidge issued the following statement...

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USCCB: President of U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Statement on the Death of President George H.W. Bush

Monday, December 3, 2018

Arlington Catholic Herald

St. Patrick Church community breaks ground for new church

December 7, 2018

The groundbreaking ceremony, which was held outside with hundreds gathered, began with a Liturgy of the Word service led by Father John A. Ziegler, pastor; Father Jerry A. Wooton, parochial vicar; and the Very Rev. Francis M. de Rosa, dean of Deanery VII and pastor of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church in Colonial Beach.