Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Today, on this Fourth Sunday of Easter, also known as Good Shepherd Sunday, we are reminded of the comforting and guiding presence of Jesus Christ, who calls us by name and leads us to eternal life. In the Gospel, Jesus tells us: “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” These words are deeply personal. They remind us that our faith is not rooted in distant rules or empty ritual, but in a relationship—with the Shepherd who knows each of us intimately and walks with us always.

In our First Reading (Acts 13:14, 43-52), Paul and Barnabas proclaim the Good News with boldness, even when rejected by some. Their perseverance encourages us to remain faithful to Christ’s voice, even when the world may not understand or accept it.

The Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 100) reminds us that we are indeed the people of God—the flock He shepherds. And in the Second Reading (Revelation 7:9, 14b-17), we are given a powerful image of the heavenly multitude, led to springs of life by the Lamb who becomes our Shepherd.

Honoring Our Mothers

This Sunday also holds special significance as we celebrate Mother’s Day. What a beautiful providence that this day coincides with Good Shepherd Sunday, for so many of us have experienced the love of God first through the selfless love and care of our mothers.

A mother’s voice, like that of the Good Shepherd, comforts, guides, protects, and nourishes. Whether it is the mother who gave us life, the grandmother who raised us in faith, the godmother who prayed for us, or the spiritual mothers who walked with us in the Church—today we say thank you. Your love is a reflection of God's own love, and your sacrifices have planted seeds of faith in generations to come.

To all mothers in our parish—biological, adoptive, foster, and spiritual—may the Lord bless you abundantly for the love you give. And for those whose mothers have gone home to the Lord, we pray for their eternal rest and for the peace of your heart.

“Her children rise up and call her blessed.” (Proverbs 31:28)

Reflection Questions for the Week:

• Listening to the Shepherd: Do I make room in my life to hear the voice of Jesus through prayer and Scripture?
• Trusting in the Path: What fears or doubts keep me from following Christ more wholeheartedly?
• Honoring Our Mothers: How can I show love and gratitude to the women who have nurtured my faith and life?

Let us continue our Easter journey with joyful hearts, following the voice of our Good Shepherd and honoring those who have shepherded us in love. May this Sunday be a time of renewed faith, deeper gratitude, and tender reflection.

With Easter blessings,