Traditionally this Fourth Sunday of Easter is called Good Shepherd Sunday. No matter which liturgical cycle we are in, the Gospel will always be about Jesus, the Good Shepherd. So great is our Good Shepherd that he knows each of us by name and gives us eternal life. Jesus states that no one can take a sheep from his hand or from the father’s hand because he and the father are one. In this, we know that no external force, no other person or entity, can take us out of Jesus’ hand or the father’s hand. But we are certainly capable of letting go of Jesus’ hand or the Father’s hand. We are, let’s face it, like sheep. We do wander off and risk being injured or lost. But we have Jesus the Good Shepherd grasping our hand, bringing us back time and time again—forgiving us and making us new in his love! Let’s be wise disciples! Wise enough to know that embracing Jesus and his ways and his truth will bring us to the eternal life we strive for.

This weekend is World Day of Prayer of Religious Vocations. We pray that more young persons will hear and answer the call to be a priest or Religious Brother or Sister. Parents should always create a family atmosphere which is conducive to vocations. This does not mean forcing someone to take on this way of life—that never works! But, to be open to discuss the possibility of such a beautiful vocation. We are all in a sense “vocation promoters”—by the things we do and say, we can open the way for a choice of a religious vocation. Let us pray to the Good Shepherd for an increase of priests, deacons, Brothers and Sisters!

As you see from today’s bulletin we are planning another delightful evening of fun, food, and dance on June 7th. This is a fundraiser to offset our parish budget. Please mark your calendars for a fun-filled “Rock Around the Clock” dinner and dance!

In closing, we extend our blessings upon all our dear mothers. We pray for our moms living and deceased. We pray: “Loving God as a mother gives life and nourishment to her children, so you watch over your Church. Bless our mothers. Let the example of their faith and love shine forth. Grant that we, their families, may honor them always with a spirit of profound respect. Amen.” Happy Mother’s Day!

Love, Fr. Vince