Bishop Michael F. Burbidge is the fourth Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, Virginia, having been appointed by Pope Francis on October 4, 2016, and installed on December 6, 2016. Prior to his appointment, he served as the Bishop of Raleigh, North Carolina, from 2006 to 2016, and as an Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia from 2002 to 2006. Throughout his episcopal ministry, Bishop Burbidge has been a steadfast advocate for the sanctity of life, religious liberty, and the promotion of vocations to the priesthood and religious life. He currently serves as the Chair of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life, and Vocations, a position he has held since 2021.

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Born on June 16, 1957, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Bishop Burbidge graduated from Cardinal O’Hara High School in Springfield, Pennsylvania, in 1975. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and a Master of Arts in Theology from St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, a Master of Arts in Education Administration from Villanova University, and a Doctorate in Education from Immaculata University. Ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in 1984, he served in various pastoral and academic roles, including as Rector of St. Charles Borromeo Seminary from 1999 to 2004. In 2002, he was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia and served as Vicar for Clergy and Vicar for Communications.

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As Bishop of Arlington, Bishop Burbidge has focused on strengthening the diocesan presence in the community, emphasizing the importance of Catholic education, and fostering a culture of vocations. He has been instrumental in the development of new initiatives aimed at enhancing the spiritual and pastoral life of the diocese, including the establishment of new parishes and the expansion of Catholic Charities services to meet the needs of the growing Northern Virginia area.

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Outside of his episcopal duties, Bishop Burbidge enjoys spending time with his family and is known for his approachable and pastoral demeanor. He is an avid sports fan and enjoys attending local sporting events. Whether engaging with the faithful in his diocese or participating in community activities, Bishop Burbidge exemplifies the joy and commitment of a true shepherd, leading with humility and grace.