This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. Few things bring more joy to people than keeping family photo albums, filled with images of happy faces, vacations and sunny days at the waterpark. Unfortunately, though, too many of our brothers and sisters are victims of domestic violence, willful intimidation, assault and abusive behavior. For them the prospect of smiles and photos and cheerful memories will be replaced by fear, anxiety and trepidation. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In the United States more than 10 million adults experience domestic violence annually…and on a typical day domestic violence hotlines receive over 19,000 calls…staggering numbers. May we make a special effort this month to pray for those who suffer from this unthinkable hardship. We ask God to give victims safe harbor and for those who are aware of domestic violence the courage to speak up.
