The month of May gives rise to thoughts of many things. We are happy to see signs of springtime in our gardens, our college students are making their way home for summer break, our mothers get their day today – and how deserving they are! But it is also a month where we celebrate ordinations and religious vows.
As far as the signs of springtime go, I’m delighted to see everything in bloom. Spring speaks volumes to the renewal that is Easter. Each time I see what God is doing in the splendor of springtime colors, I’m reminded that God is also working in other ways in the world and in our hearts. No matter what we read in the news, God is working on a renewal of souls.
It is a joy to welcome home our college students for their summer adventures. The college years move quickly, and graduations come upon us almost without warning. I pray that college is not only a chance to stretch minds but also a chance to grow in faith. Life is complicated, but with God and a life of prayer, nothing is impossible. May summer give our college students the time and space to get closer to Christ who is the best teacher.
On this Mother’s Day, I am reminded that motherhood is a vocation – a call from God to create, nurture, teach, encourage, worry, support, and love. God calls moms and dads to form their children in faith and give them all that they need to thrive and live the Gospel in truth and in love. Thanks be to God for the generous “yes” of Mary, and the “yes” and sacrifices of our mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, and those who are like moms to us!
In today’s Gospel, Jesus is the good shepherd who cares so deeply for the flock. By the time you read this, we may have a new Holy Father, and typically this is the time of year that the Church will ordain new priests and religious communities will receive the vows of sisters and brothers. The call to dedicated service in the Church is a gift. In a time where the world might say, “Why would you do that? The Catholic Church has a history of scandal! Why become a part of so ancient a structure?” women and men continue to say “yes” to the call to such a life. Why? Because they are called by God. Because they cannot run from a God who beckons them to bring the love of His Son Jesus to the blessed and brokenhearted. Why? Because Christ Himself gives them what they need to celebrate joyful moments with parishioners and heal those who are wounded by illness, grief, and fear. Why? Because the word of God needs to be proclaimed and the Eucharist needs to be shared. Why? Because we need help getting to Heaven.
To any who read this and think that God is calling, take the next step. Don’t be afraid. God will give you what you need and care for you like a good shepherd. We need you!
In conclusion, please pray to Mary, our Mother to whom the month of May is dedicated, that those called by God will say “yes.”
Yours in Christ,
