The Shepherd

The beauty of the late Pope Francis’ pectoral cross is found in its simplicity: Christ the Good Shepherd leading the flock, carrying the lost sheep on his shoulders, guided by the Holy Spirit. This design captured his pastoral approach—to be the Shepherd who relentlessly sought out the lost, reaching out to the peripheries of the Church. To many, he was an authentic Good Shepherd to all in need of God’s mercy and love.

Reflecting on the recent Good Shepherd Sunday Gospel, his successor, Pope Leo XIV, described being a Good Shepherd as “a gift from God.” He celebrated his first Sunday as Bishop of Rome with the Gospel that reveals Jesus as the true Shepherd—one who knows, loves, accompanies and gives His life for his sheep.

For the Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools, this beloved Gospel shapes the foundation of the mission, expressed in the framework titled The Fullness of Life, envisioning abundant life for all through Christ.

We pray, then, for Pope Leo as he emphasises Mission and Evangelisation—a legacy carried in the heart of each papacy since the Second Vatican Council. As he encouraged before praying the Regina Caeli: “May the Virgin Mary, whose entire life was a response to the Lord’s call, always accompany us in following Jesus.”