First Reading: 2 Timothy 4:1-5
Psalm 96
Gospel: John 10:11-16

Our liturgy today presents us  St Francois de Montmorency Laval  (1623-1708) patron of the Bishops of Canada; the first bishop of Quebec City. St Francois, was an outstanding educator and administrator, a generous benefactor, a caring bishop and a pious man whose spiritual influence was widespread. He is given the title:”  Père  de la Patrie” (Father of the Homeland). He was canonized in 2014.

In the first reading of today, St Paul urges Timothy saying:  “I solemnly urge you: proclaim the message; be persistent whether the time is favourable or unfavourable; convince, rebuke, and encourage, with the utmost patience in teaching”. That is the advice given to him. In this reading, priests and pastors are placed in a very sensitive zone. Despite their positive and negative human qualities, they are called to be shepherds to their flock. Referring to today’s liturgy, I earnestly invite you to pray for your priests and leaders that they may sincerely fulfill their ministry with wisdom and compassionate hearts. Some of our elderly priests used to advise us that, when we are assigned to a new mission, we should practice three things, namely, 1. Patience 2. Patience 3. Patience.

The Gospel of today was also read on Monday, May 4: it reminds us that Jesus is the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep. In Jesus we surely find everything that we need for our lives. He knows us through and through. On our part, however, we need to be humble in spirit. Therefore, in addition to today’s reading, I would like to invite you to read Mt. 5: 1-12 , the sermon on the Mount, the beatitudes.

May God illumine our hearts to follow our leader, the Good Shepherd and Risen Lord. Amen
Fr. Mussie