This is a busy Sunday for us, the fourth Sunday of the Easter season. Because of the Gospel reading in which Jesus states that he is the gate through which the sheep enter, this Sunday is known as Good Shepherd Sunday. Jesus as our Good Shepherd is such a beloved image for us. In addition, this is the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, fulfilling the Lord's instruction to pray to the Lord of the harvest to send laborers into his harvest. We all have different vocations to which God calls us, but, particularly on this world day of prayer, we pray for vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, and consecrated religious life.
We had had Uno the sheep with us in our church as a symbol of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. I got the idea for Uno from a parish I visited last summer in New Hampshire on a mission appeal for our Diocese. Many children and adults have loved Uno and all that he symbolizes. Every time we see Uno at Mass, may we be reminded of Jesus as our Good Shepherds who leads us and guides us through the ups and downs of life.
As we wind down our religious education program for the year, I give thanks for all the men and women who have volunteered this year as catechists and teachers to teach and form our children, youth, and adults in the faith. We are very grateful for the contributions you make to our parish. Blessings to all of you. Father Lincoln.
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