by Father Patrick Longalong
This weekend, the Church celebrates the Fourth Sunday of Easter, traditionally known as Good Shepherd Sunday. Each year, we hear the comforting words of Jesus in the Gospel: “My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). The image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd is one of the most tender and reassuring in all of Scripture. A shepherd doesn’t simply manage sheep—he knows each one by name, leads them to safety, and is even willing to lay down his life for them. This is how Jesus cares for us: personally, sacrificially, and faithfully. He doesn’t just walk ahead issuing commands—he walks beside us, and often, when we’re too weak or lost, he carries us.
In light of this Gospel, the Church also observes the World Day of Prayer for Vocations on this Sunday. We are reminded that the voice of the Good Shepherd still calls out, inviting people to follow Him not only in the routines of daily life but also through special vocations—such as priests, deacons, religious sisters and brothers, missionaries, and consecrated laypeople. Those who respond to this call are entrusted with a share in Christ’s mission: to shepherd His people with compassion and care.
Yet vocation isn’t limited to ordained ministry or religious life. Another celebration this weekend—Mother’s Day—reminds us that vocation is also found in family life. Motherhood is a beautiful and sacred calling. Like the Good Shepherd, a mother gives of herself for her children, often in quiet, unseen ways. Her love is patient, strong, and nurturing. Every baptized person has a vocation—a unique path of faith expressed through marriage, single life, religious service, or one’s profession. Living out that calling means being open to God’s direction and allowing our lives to be shaped by grace and purpose.
I remember one moment of vocational discernment during a college retreat at Inisfada, the Jesuit retreat house that once stood in Manhasset. On its expansive grounds was a prayer labyrinth, modeled after the one in the Cathedral of Chartres in France. Unlike a maze, a labyrinth has no dead ends—it offers a single winding path to the center. It’s not meant to confuse but to invite reflection. That experience taught me that discernment isn’t about having every answer up front—it’s about taking the next faithful step, trusting that God is guiding the way.
This Sunday’s readings echo that truth. In the first reading, Paul and Barnabas face rejection but stay faithful to their mission because they know the Shepherd’s voice. And in Revelation, we see those who have persevered in their calling, now rejoicing in glory, gently shepherded by the Lamb who wipes away every tear.
As we continue on our journey, may we find strength and hope in the assurance that we do not walk alone. The Good Shepherd is with us—calling, guiding, and gently leading us not only toward our destination, but toward who we are meant to become.
Father Patrick Longalong is the pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes, Queens Village, and associate vicar for Migrant and Ethnic Apostolates in the Diocese.