Dear Parishioners and Friends,
Greetings from Malta, to where I have travelled to participate in MSSP meetings and spend quality time with my family. I am carrying you all in my heart and in my prayers.
This Fourth Sunday of Easter, is traditionally known as Good Shepherd Sunday. Each year on this day, the Church also celebrates the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. In the today’s Gospel, Jesus says: “I am the gate for the sheep… whoever enters through me will be safe… I have come so that they may have life and have it to the full” (Jn 10:1-10).
These words remind us that Jesus is the Good Shepherd who knows His people. He calls each one of us by name and leads us with compassion and love to life in abundance. He walks before us and invites us to follow Him.
Vocations begin with listening to the voice of the Shepherd. He continues to call men and women today to serve His people in many ways: as priests, deacons, religious sisters and brothers, missionaries, married couples, single people dedicated to service, and lay faithful who witness to Christ in daily life. Every Christian has a vocation, because every Christian is called to holiness, love, and service.
On Vocations Sunday, we pray especially for those whom the Lord is calling to priesthood and consecrated life. We ask that they may have the courage to open their generous hearts and respond with trust. We also pray for those in formation, and for all who guide and support them.
God calls in various ways, and he want us to support those whom he calls. May our families, parish and communities encourage young people to ask: “What is God asking of me?” As a parish we need to foster a culture of vocation by prayer, encouragement, and joyful witness. The Lord may be inviting you, a young person among us, to a deeper commitment and consider priesthood or religious life.
May Mary, Mother of the Church, help us to listen attentively and respond generously. And may our parish always be a place where the voice of the Good Shepherd is heard and followed.
God bless you.
Fr Silvio