The Voice of the Shepherd

This past Good Shepherd Sunday holds special weight as we receive Pope Leo XIV, newly chosen to lead the Church. His election reminds us that while Christ remains the true Shepherd, He entrusts the care of His people to fallible hands. As Peter’s successor, the Pope bears the responsibility of guiding, not replacing, the flock’s Master. He shares in our humanity — subject to limitation, reliant on grace — yet his role is vital. Through him, the voice of Jesus continues to speak, inviting us to listen and respond faithfully.

The Petrine office is not about status but service — a sign of Christ’s enduring concern for His People. We do not follow the man, but the call entrusted to him. Though imperfect, he is tasked with encouraging the faithful and leading them to His Father. As we begin this chapter under Pope Leo XIV, may we pray that he remains grounded in truth, attentive to the Spirit, and courageous in guiding the Church toward renewal and unity.