Following the Good Shepherd in Faith – Apr 22 – Homily – Fr John Lawrence

 

Fr John Lawrence gives the homily at Bloomington, IN, on Apr 22, 2024, where he explores the metaphor of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing the role of the Church as the sheepfold and Christ as the gateway. He highlights the significance of faith in Christ for true entry into the Church, contrasting it with those who spread heresy, akin to thieves and robbers. The Scriptures, referred to as the "door" or "gate," serve as both an entry into faith and a barrier against error, with the Holy Spirit acting as the doorkeeper who opens these truths to the faithful.

The discourse also discusses the role of Church leaders as shepherds who guide the faithful towards truth and virtuous living, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The homily connects to the broader narrative of inclusion, using the example of Cornelius' conversion to illustrate the extension of the Church's reach beyond the Israelites, as ordained by Christ and mediated through Saint Peter's vision.

This explanation culminates with a reflection on the scriptural basis for integration into the Church through faith rather than adherence to Old Law, highlighted by the transformative vision given to Saint Peter, which signifies the universal call to the Church.

00:00 – Introduction, Good Shepherd Discourse
00:15 – Unveiling Parable of the Sheepfold
00:27 – The Role of Christ and Faith in the Church
00:49 – Scripture as the Gatekeeper of Faith
01:24 – Christ's Personal Call to His Followers
02:30 – Eternal Life through Faith and Baptism
03:03 – Unity and Diversity in the Catholic Church
03:23 – The Gentiles' Inclusion in the Church and Peter's Vision

Ave Maria!

Mass: Monday 4th Week of Easter - Wkdy
Readings:  - http://usccb.org/bible/readings/042224.cfm
1st: act 11:1-18
Resp: psa 42:2-3, 43:3, 4
Gsp: joh 10:11-18

More on the Readings: https://airmaria.com/r?m=1795

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