October 14, 2023

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has united with Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, and the bishops of the Holy Land in their call that Tuesday, October 17 be a worldwide day of fasting, prayer, and abstinence for peace. I invite all of the faithful of the Diocese of Arlington to join me in participating in this sacrificial offering to God with the intention to end the violence and hatred in the midst of this crisis. 

May the Lord Jesus, Prince of Peace, transform hearts, bring an end to war, violence and suffering, and grant peace to the world. 

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge
Bishop of Arlington