Good Shepherd Sunday- Blessed And Thankful

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 8th is indeed a day to remember! My thesis moderator, Professor Lewis Ayres, and I had just concluded our last day lecture at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome.

Cardinal Francis Prevost and St. Pope John Paul II are among the distinguished alumni of this esteemed university! I called my mother on my way home to wish her a happy birthday and to remind her that my dad had passed on the same day more than ten years prior.

We were laughing over a seagull sitting close to the Sistine Chapel’s chimney when suddenly the news came in: “Habemus papam!” It was declared clearly by the Cardinal Deacon! Traffic was heavy, and everyone began running to the square.

The first American Pope, Leo XIV, appeared on the magnificent central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica an hour later, looking out at the enormous audience gathering in St. Peter’s Square!

I had the amazing privilege of saying Mass with Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Fadairo at the Basilica of Mary Major this last Saturday.

This is the same chapel where Pope Francis is buried and frequently visits! Would you believe it, too? Yesterday, the newly appointed Pope Leo XIV paid a visit to the same location! “Thank you, God, for this extraordinary grace!” is all I can say.

Despite the massive crowd, we were fortunately spared from having to wait in line! By God’s grace, everything came together. Fr. Fadairo is an incredibly amazing parent.

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.”

Pope Leo XIV observed the euphoric mob in St. Peter’s Square from his balcony. He also took in the sight of the old and majestic Obelisk, which was originally erected in Nero’s Circus, the site of several Christian martyrdoms.

According to legend, St. Peter’s final sight before facing his crucifixion upside down was the Obelisk. The pope has served as Christ’s chosen shepherd to lead His flock, a symbol of unity, and a spiritual parent throughout history.

The Obelisk is a silent reminder that the Pope must be willing to sacrifice himself for the Church, just like Peter did. And now, in our era, Pope Leo XIV, our Christ-viccar and Peter’s successor— 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 beats go on!

Reporting live from Rome for Agnesisikablog.