Catholic Church Celebrates Good Shepherd Sunday, Emphasizing Vocations

On April 21, 2024, the Catholic Church celebrates Good Shepherd Sunday, also known as Vocation Sunday, with readings from Acts 4:8-12, Psalm 117, 1 John 3:1-2, and the Gospel of John 10:11-18. The focus is on the role of Jesus as the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep and the importance of priestly and religious vocations.

The Gospel reading from John portrays Jesus as the "Good Shepherd" who protects and cares for his sheep, even risking his own life for them. The Church reminds us that the Resurrection is a continuing reality, and that we need the Lord as our Good Shepherd to guide us to eternal life and protect us from the dangers of sin and death.

Pope Francis' message for the 61st World Day of Prayer for Vocations, celebrated on this day, highlights that hearing God's call is the surest way to fulfill our deepest desire for happiness. He acknowledges the faithful efforts of those who have responded to this call, including parents, consecrated men and women, and ordained priests. The Pope encourages young people to let Jesus draw them to himself and challenge them, respecting their freedom.

Why this matters: Good Shepherd Sunday underscores the vital role of vocations in the life of the Church and the world. By promoting and supporting priestly and religious vocations, the Church seeks to ensure that the faithful will continue to have shepherds who guide them on the path to eternal life.

The World Day of Prayer for Vocations has a synodal character, where the Christian community is called to listen to one another and travel together to discern the different gifts bestowed by the Spirit. The Pope calls for prayer as the first strength of hope, and for all to become pilgrims of hope and builders of peace as the Church prepares for the Jubilee Year of 2025. "The Resurrection is a continuing reality, and we need the Lord as our Good Shepherd to guide us to eternal life and protect us from the dangers of sin and death," the Church reminds us on this special day.

Key Takeaways

• Good Shepherd Sunday celebrates Jesus as the Good Shepherd on April 21, 2024.
• The Gospel reading portrays Jesus as the Good Shepherd who protects and cares for his sheep.
• Pope Francis' message emphasizes hearing God's call as the path to true happiness.
• Good Shepherd Sunday underscores the vital role of vocations in the life of the Church.
• The World Day of Prayer for Vocations has a synodal character, calling the community to discern gifts.