From the Desk of Father Mark - Our Pastor
May 3, 2026 - Fifth Sunday of Easter

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From the Desk of Father Mark - Our Pastor
April 26, 2026 - Fourth Sunday of Easter

“I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly.”

The image of the shepherd is a popular and powerful reminder of the love the Good Shepherd, Jesus, has for his flock. A good shepherd is someone who does what is in the best interest of the sheep, not the best interest of the shepherd. In Ezekiel 34 we read, “you did not strengthen the weak nor heal the sick nor bind the injured. You did not bring back the strayed nor seek the lost, but you lorded it over them harshly and brutally. So, they were scattered for lack of a shepherd.” Ezekiel continues, “Thus say the Lord God: I am coming against shepherds. I will claim my sheep from them... I will save my sheep, that they may no longer be food for their mouths.” Jesus, as Good Shepherd, is the savior who does not use the sheep for his advantage but sacrifices himself for the good of the flock.

In Psalm 23, from today’s Mass, we recall the words, “The Lord is my shepherd... I fear no evil, for you are at my side.” People in our life who have our best interest, who sacrifice for us, who care about our well-being are good shepherds. We look to Jesus in times of trouble because we trust his faithfulness to us.

Donald Senior writes: “The metaphor of God as Israel’s shepherd has roots in biblical literature and receives emphasis in John’s chapter 10 which describes Jesus as the ‘good shepherd’. This designation is not just a poetic image, but a basic act of faith... The psalmist trusts that this provident care will be his forever.”

We see, as believers in the resurrection of Jesus, the faith to know that God is always at our side, and courage to be good shepherds to one another.

Have a great week!

Fr. Mark Walter
Pastor of Our Lady of the Ridge - St.Linus Parish