This Sunday’s readings give us the image of the shepherd to describe the Lord’s care and love for us, His flock. This is such a rich image, used throughout the Old and New Testament, and a favorite in the artwork of the early Church. In fact, some of the earliest depictions of Christ, found in frescoes and in statuary, are of Christ the Good Shepherd. There is something about this image that pulls on our hearts and attracts us, as we long for someone who will care for us, watch over and protect us, and walk with us through the dark valleys of life. We rejoice this Sunday in Christ, our Good Shepherd, and pray for the grace to hear His voice and follow after Him, that He might lead us into green pastures, to dwell Him in joy, both in this life and the life to come.
I am happy to share with you the news that we have a new director of our Parish Pre-K Religious Education Program: Ms. Maria Procoprio. Maria will be taking over for Judy Gruel, our Director of Religious Education, who has been running the program in addition to her many other duties. Maria is a recent graduate from Franciscan University of Steubenville and is also the new Pre-K 4 teacher at OLPH School, where we have a wonderful all-day Pre-K 4 program. Maria brings many gifts to both of these positions and we’re thrilled to bring her on staff in service of both the Parish and the School. Please join me in welcoming her! I know that she will be asking for help with this coming year’s program, so I hope we will have many respond to this important ministry.
Have a very blessed new week!
