Fr. Tom Lynch, OP

Jesus sent out his disciples "like sheep among wolves," knowing that they would encounter difficulties. Yet he sent his Holy Spirit with them as well. You and I are sent to preach the Good News as well. Ask God to give you the courage and wisdom you need to endure in this task. God will provide.

In the Old Testament story of Joseph, his brothers, who had sold him into slavery, were dying of famine, and they came to Joseph for food, not recognising him. Instead of condemning them, he said to them, "I am your brother, Joseph" and gave them food. In the same way, in the Archdiocese of Chicago, Joseph Cardinal Bernardin introduced himself to a Church that was hurting with the line "I am your brother, Joseph." To whom do we need to be brother and sister, extending not condemnation but God's compassion?

On this Memorial of the Apostle Barnabas, we remember how he said "yes" when the Church elected him to accompany Paul on his missionary journeys. When God calls, will you say yes, ready or not?

Jesus tells us that we are meant to be the salt of the earth and a light for the world. For whom are we light? Who is light to us? Today, let us look at our relationships in this light.

Jesus declares that his sheep hear his voice. Through a touching story about a young boy struggling to herd sheep, Fr. Lynch illustrates how God calls each of us by name and invites us to listen to His voice.

Weaving together two profound themes: Mother’s Day and Good Shepherd Sunday. Reflecting on a touching encounter with a young shepherdess in Bolivia, Fr. Lynch draws a powerful parallel between the love of mothers and the care of the Good Shepherd for His flock.