Sheep and Shepherd
The first reading, psalm, and the gospel today all talk about sheep and shepherds. We’ll think about these images more during the homily, but there’s one point I’d like to make here. Almost all literary images are both powerful, and dangerous. Powerful because they give us ways of thinking, ways of making connections, ways of visualising complex issues with striking and memorable simplicity. But they can be dangerous for all the same reasons!
The image of the people of Israel as sheep, used to great effect in the first reading from Jeremiah and then echoed by Jesus in the gospel as an image of the lost and vulnerable people who followed him, are both examples of the power of imagery. But they are also examples of the dangers that can result if we push the images beyond what they were intended to teach us. For instance, the image of the people who come to church as being the sheep of a flock whose shepherds are the clergy is so much part of our mental furniture that we might not notice these dangers.
But the dangers are real. For us in the catholic tradition, one of the dangers is that parishioners can fall into the habit of thinking that ‘Fr knows best’ . And if it’s a bad idea for all of you to think that I know best, trust me – it’s an even worse idea if I start to think that I know best!
After today’s mass we will have a meeting of the PCC. A strong PCC is essential for the proper and safe running of the parish community. It is not just an opportunity for the vicar to tell everyone what to think, or what to do. We must discuss openly and honestly, and work towards a truly shared and tested understanding of how to take our parish forward.
I look forward to working with you as together we pursue our great commission to spread the good news of Jesus Christ – and do that in ways that are sustainable and responsibly managed.
Fr. Stephen
Notices
We have a PCC Meeting on Sunday 21st July immediately after Mass.
Please be reminded that our Brigade will be launched in September, so please sign up for your child who is 4yrs Six Months Old up to 11yrs. Please take note that it is for both boys and girls. To register your child, please contact Fr. Josiah.
We will be updating the Prayer List at the end of the Month so please contact Susan if you want a name to be added.
Please support the church generously through your giving at www.stanselm.co.uk/giving