On December 8, the universal Catholic Church celebrated the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. The Feast Day is uniquely Catholic. Bishop Burbidge spoke to the students at Cardinal Gibbons High School about Diocesan seminarian Philip Johnson, who has been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. "We have prayed for Philip through the intercession of Mary asking Our Lord Jesus to bless Him with amazing graces, and Philip asked me to thank each one of you," Bishop Burbidge said, adding that while Philip has not received a physical cure at this point, "God has already responded to our prayers." The Bishop said Philip has grown "stronger in his faith, reflecting serenity, courage and perseverance, while inspiring and helping others who are struggling. He has never lost hope," the Bishop said, "and renews his 'yes' to the Lord each day, ready to accept whatever God asks of him. In God's will, we always find our peace!"
This browser does not support the video element.