Today is Good Shepherd Sunday and the Gospel from St. John begins “I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep.” Even though I grew up in the country, there were few sheep and no shepherds. The Gospel offers a job description of what a “good” shepherd should be. Of course, this is Jesus. It is worthwhile reading over this Gospel several times, allowing the content of the reading to speak to you. The second reading is also filled with positive thoughts: “See what love the Father has bestowed on us that we may be called children of God.” And then it adds:“Yet so we are.”This is what God thinks of us, each one of us in our uniqueness and individuality. We are indeed blessed by God. Let us be grateful!

There are two Pilgrimages that you might enjoy:

1. May 12-13 to Boston. Visit and Mass at St. Anthony’s Shrine, visit to Holy Cross Cathedral and visit and tour of the Kennedy Library. Check the Front Desk to sign up. Spaces still available.

2. Pilgrimage to Poland, and Easter Europe Nov. 5 to 16. Information and registration forms are available at reception desk. Spaces are still available, although they are going fast.

-Fr. Andrew Reitz, O.F.M.