Jesus is the Good Shepherd of His people.  He knows each of us by name, sees us with compassion, cares for each one in a unique way.  In His concern for us he carries out the three tasks of the Shepherd.

1.   He Leads:

      We draw support from many places and many people.  We drink from many wells.  Jesus saw for himself how shepherds led their flocks to places where water and pasture were to be found.  By His word and example He leads us to wells that give us life; strengthens our hope, brings us peace and gives depth to our lives.  He is the Good Shepherd who knows the way to God.  If we let His wisdom guide us then we too will arrive one day at the Father's house.

2.   He Protects:

      In His day Jesus saw how shepherds had to guard their flocks against wild animals that would scatter the sheep and harm them.  The shepherd protected his flock against dangers and against division.  With regard to His own flock Jesus said that no one can snatch them out of His hand.   He searches out the straying and the lost.  He seeks out those of us who have strayed from the right path.  He finds joy in us when we are faithful and also when we find our way to Him after wandering away.

3.  He Nourishes:

     Jesus said that He came that we might have life and have it to the full.  People of His day were familiar with the shepherd providing food and water for the flock.  Jesus wants us to be fully alive to the goodness of; full of respect for ourselves and for others.  He offers us His peace, leads us to where we are most open to welcome His gifts and gives us the joy that comes from being close to Him.  Our hungers are real.  He meets our deepest hungers for love, acceptance, forgiveness, hope and freedom.  He brings life to our parish through his word in the gospels and through His Sacraments.  We take Him as the protector of our parish as we try to build it up in unity, in respect for each other, in gratitude for all that God has given and continues to give us.