Bishop Burbidge Issues Edict for Thomas Vander Woude Canonization

Bishop Burbidge Issues Edict as Cause for Canonization Advances for Virginia Father

The potential cause for the canonization of Thomas Steven Vander Woude took an important step forward on Sept. 10, 2026. Bishop Michael Burbidge of Arlington issued an official edict requesting that the faithful submit any information that should be considered in the investigation. The edict was the first public notification that a cause for canonization is being considered for the Virginia father and Knight of Columbus.

Bishop Burbidge has issued an Edict concerning Thomas Stephen Vander Woude as part of the investigation of his cause for canonization. The diocese now asks the faithful to make known any useful information they may have regarding the Cause, whether favorable or unfavorable.…

— https://x.com/arlingtonchurch/status/2098132926407807235

Thomas Vander Woude died in September 2008 in an act of sacrifice to save his youngest son, Joseph, who has Down syndrome. Joseph had fallen into a septic tank on the family’s land. The father jumped into the tank to rescue him but was unable to climb out.

The event was detailed in an essay published in Columbia magazine by the eldest of his seven sons, Father Thomas P. Vander Woude, who serves as pastor of St. Mary of Sorrows Parish in Fairfax, Va. At the time of the incident, Father Vander Woude was a priest called to an emergency room to console his family and anoint his injured brother.

Reflections on a Father’s Sacrifice and Vocation

In his essay, Father Vander Woude reflected on the meaning of his father’s final act, describing it as the fulfillment of his vocation. He pointed to St. Paul’s exhortation that men should love their wives as Christ loved the Church. While most fathers will not be required to give up their lives to the point of death, the essay argues that daily, hidden sacrifices form the core of family life.

The author detailed how his father modeled this self-gift through daily prayer, leading the family in the rosary, and making significant lifestyle changes. Those choices included giving up a career in the military and moving so his sons could receive strong Catholic schooling. The family also learned the value of hard work from a father raised on a farm.

News of the fatal rescue spread quickly through local and national media in 2008. The story resonated widely, touching a cultural nerve with its depiction of parental sacrifice.

Next Steps in the Investigation

The official edict issued by Bishop Burbidge requests that the faithful submit any information that should be considered in the investigation. Faithful possessing relevant information concerning Thomas Steven Vander Woude are invited to submit their findings to the Diocese of Arlington for evaluation.