Pray For Good, Faithful Shepherds

18 Apr

Jesus said again, “Amen, amen, I say to you,
I am the gate for the sheep.
All who came before me are thieves and robbers,
but the sheep did not listen to them.
I am the gate.
Whoever enters through me will be saved,
and will come in and go out and find pasture.
A thief comes only to steal and slaughter and destroy;
I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly.”  (Jn 10:7-10)

Yesterday was “Good Shepherd Sunday”.  It was also World Day of Prayer for Vocations.

As we think about the need for an increase in vocations, we realize that our need is critical.  Shepherds are so very important to the flock.  Without shepherds, the flock can be dispersed too easily.

The critical need for leaders also introduces another problem:  false shepherds.

Jesus acknowledged that there were those who came before Him who were thieves and robbers.  They claimed to be from God but were there for themselves.

We pray that we may remain true to the Lord, our Good Shepherd, and we pray that those who are being called to serve the Lord in Church vocations have the grace and courage to respond generously.

FAITH ACTION:  Pray for those entrusted to care for the flock of the Lord.  And, pray for an increase in Church vocations.

Loving God, you call all who believe in you
to grow perfect in love by following in the footsteps
of Christ your Son.
Call from among us more men and women
who will serve you as religious.
By their way of life, may they provide a convincing sign
of your Kingdom for the Church and the whole world.
We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Gracious and loving God, help the
men and women of our parish to hear the
call to serve in the Diocese of Gary.
Our needs are great and our people
thirst for your presence.

Open the hearts of many, raise up
faithful servants of the Gospel, dedicated,
holy priests, sisters, brothers and deacons,
who will spend themselves for your people and their needs.

Bless those who are serving now
with courage and perseverance.
Grant that many will be inspired by their
example and faith.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.