This weekend we celebrate Good Shepherd Sunday. John uses the image of the Good Shepherd to explain what it means to be a faith community. It is about our shared trust in Christ who put his life on the line to take care of his flock and keep them secure. It is about a flock that can be opening and welcoming to others without fear for its safety, because the one who laid down his life for them has taken it up again as the Father commanded.
It is only fitting that on this weekend at all the masses I will be announcing the name of our new shepherd as pastor. In my retirement beginning July 1st, I hope to continue to be a presence to this community which I love so dearly