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Bishop Celebrates Mass for Diocesan Lay Ministers
On November 15th, the Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge celebrated Mass with members of the Lay Ecclesial Ministry Association at St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church in Raleigh. In his homily, the Bishop referred to all present as “co-workers in the truth.”
“We rejoice in knowing,” he said, “that in teaching, proclaiming and witnessing the Gospel without compromise, we have the truth: the truth that will prevail, the truth that will be victorious and the truth that will set us free.”
A luncheon followed the Mass, after which the Bishop met with the lay ministers to share common concerns and insights. Bishop Burbidge began by communicating five main concerns that had occupied the U.S. Bishops at their recent annual meeting: the economy; marriage and family life; respect for life; fostering vocations to the priesthood and religious life; and the important role digital technology needs to play in today’s Church.
Afterwards the group discussed a variety of topics, including ministry to Hispanics and young adults; the pros and cons of combining Hispanics and Anglos in English Confirmation liturgies; sharing, not “owning” ministries in the Church; teaching the whole truth of the faith, even those parts that may unsettle some; the importance of living authentic lives and so teaching by example; the superior effectiveness of local, personal ministry; and the need for faith formation at all stages of life.
Above: Bishop Michael F. Burbidge meeting with Diocesan lay ministers following Mass on November 15.