Detail from the apse at Saint Thomas, Fort Thomas, KY

Given at Saint Thomas Apostle, Woodley Park, Washington, D.C.

This fourth Sunday of Easter is known also today by another name, as we recount once more in the gospel the familiar parable of the good shepherd. Good Shepherd Sunday is marked in Rome by the ordination of men to the sacred priesthood by the Holy Father in Saint Peter’s basilica, and we keep in our minds today all those who are preparing to receive holy orders this summer, especially Brother Peter Martyr O.P., who serves in this parish. Today is also the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, and so we think also in more general terms about the call of the sacred priesthood, and ask ourselves what it is that we are doing to encourage and support those who may be summoned to live this life, and if we might do more to help.

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