Fourth Sunday of Easter

Catacomb of Callixtus, 3rd century Rome

Here are the readings for Fourth Sunday of Easter, May 15, 2011:

Acts 2: 14a, 36-41
Psalm 23: 1-6
1 Peter 2: 20b-25
John 10: 1-10


The earliest paintings depicting Jesus were not of his crucifixion, or the last supper, or even his resurrection or ascension, but rather this image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In first-century Palestine, the sheep would be gathered at night into an enclosed space with one opening but no gate. The shepherd would sleep across the opening, becoming himself the gate and defender of the sheep.

In today's gospel passage, the description of Jesus ... may be summed up as follows: he protects his followers daily by laying down his own life for them, he gathers them into a unique relationship with himself, and he guides them by leading the way. (Foundations in Faith, RCL)

• In what way does the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd comfort you? In what way does it challenge you?
• Where are you called to protect, guard and lead, in the manner of the Good Shepherd?

Mystagogia continues on May 15, 22 and June 5 and 12, from 10:45-11:30am.