Spiritual Corner - World Day of Prayers for Vocations

The 4th Sunday of Easter is called “Good Shepherd Sunday.” In the day’s gospel readings, the Church leads us to reflect upon Jesus’ image of a good shepherd who is most willing to sacrifice his life for the care of his sheep.

“Good Shepherd Sunday “ is also the World Day of Prayer for Vocations.” The Church invites all parishioners to pray for vocations. As Jesus says, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.”

Prior to this 62nd anniversary of World Day of Prayer for Vocations, the late Pope Francis has messaged us, “On this, the 62nd World Day of Prayer for Vocations, I wish to extend to you a joyful and encouraging invitation to become pilgrims of hope by generously offering your lives as a gift. A vocation is a precious gift that God sows in our heart, a call to leave ourselves behind and embark on a journey of love and service.”

The late Pope has also encouraged the youth to look to the young saints and blesseds who responded joyfully to the Lord’s call: Saint Rose of Lima, Saint Dominic Savio, Saint Therese of the Child Jesus, Saint Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows, the soon-to-be canonized saints Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio. Through alliance with the risen Lord Jesus, they realize the call for vocation is leading them to the path of true fulfillment.

The late Pope has also reminded the youth to abide to the teachings of the Gospel. Through prayers, discernment and services, they will find their callings. In every step we take, God will accompany those who consecrate themselves to him. So we should be courageous to consecrate our lives to Jesus Christ and be joyous to become his disciples and missionaries.

Yours,
Fr. Matthew Wang