GOOD SHEPHERD, I AM BLESSED AND SO THANKFUL!! (BEARING WITNESS TO A RARE OCCASION)
4th Sunday of Easter
Acts 13:14,43-52
Psalm 99(100):1-3,5
Apocalypse 7:9,14-17
John 10:27-30
May 8! What an unforgettable day! I had just wrapped up the final lecture of the day at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome with my thesis moderator, Professor Lewis Ayres. This is the same prestigious university that counts St. Pope John Paul II and Cardinal Francis Prevost among its illustrious alumni!
On my way home, I called my mom to wish her a Happy Birthday, reminding her of my dad’s passing on the same day over a decade ago. We had a good laugh about a seagull perched near the chimney of the Sistine Chapel when, out of nowhere, the news broke—“Habemus papam!” The Cardinal Deacon proclaimed it loud and clear! There was huge traffic and everyone started running to the square.
Just an hour later, the new pope, Leo XIV, emerged onto the grand central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, gazing out at the massive crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square—the first American pope!
Just last Saturday, I had the incredible blessing of celebrating Mass with Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Fadairo at the Basilica of Mary Major, at the very chapel where Pope Francis would often visit and where he is buried! And would you believe it? The new Pope Leo XIV visited that same place yesterday! I can only say, “Thank you, God, for this extraordinary grace!”
On this Good Shepherd Sunday, it feels more fitting than ever to declare, “Habemus pastor!” We have a shepherd! Today, we hear Jesus sharing the beautiful parable of the Good Shepherd, filled with comforting truths and promises for all of God’s children.
“I am the good shepherd,” Jesus proclaimed. “The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” Pope Francis beautifully reflected on this, saying: “Being a shepherd is not merely a job, but a true and proper way of life, 24 hours a day. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, does not just do something for us; He gives His life for us.”
From his balcony, overlooking the throng in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV not only saw the ecstatic crowd but also noticed the ancient and imposing Obelisk standing tall in the center—originally placed in Nero’s Circus, where many Christians were martyred. Legend has it that the Obelisk was the last sight of St. Peter before he faced his crucifixion upside down.
Throughout the ages, the pope has been the spiritual father, a beacon of unity, and the shepherd chosen by Christ to guide His flock. The Obelisk serves as a silent reminder that, like Peter, the Pope too must be prepared to lay down his life for the Church.
And now, in our time, Pope Leo XIV—our vicar of Christ and successor to Peter—stands as our Good Shepherd!
Habemus pastorem!
I am truly blessed! Thank you, Lord! What else can I say but thank you, Lord, especially for this unique opportunity… Let the beat go on! 
Yes O! Let the beat go on Padre. Happy Good Shepherd Sunday Padre
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