Statement by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge on Discovery of Body of Unborn Baby

( en español )

It is with great sorrow that I learned today of the unsettling discovery of the body of an unborn baby described by police as a “late-term fetus,” found in a pond in Leesburg. The Diocese of Arlington has made it known that we are willing to assist with the proper burial and committal of the remains.

I urge the faithful of the diocese and all people of goodwill to join me in prayer for the child's mother and for anyone involved in this incident.

Through its parishes, ministries and parishioners, the Diocese of Arlington encourages all women who find themselves in unexpected or difficult pregnancies to seek assistance through Gabriel Project (helpforpregnantwomen.org or 703-841-3810), Catholic Charities (ccda.net or 703-973-0129), or the nearest Catholic Church.