January 5, 2025

As you read this, I am on retreat with my brother bishops from dioceses in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington, D.C., the Virgin Islands, North and South Carolina, Georgia, Florida and the Archdiocese for the Military Services. I am grateful for this time of spiritual renewal. In fact, I would feel miserable if I didn’t take time for the retreat. Even as a young priest, I looked forward to this opportunity offered in the Archdiocese of Washington each January. It is a respite in the middle of winter after a busy fall, Advent, Christmas season and the start of the new year. It provides a pause where we can catch our breath and get recentered in our faith through…