This Sunday, we gather under the tender image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd—the one who knows His sheep and lays down His life for them
It is possible that by this Sunday, we may have a new Pope, a new shepherd to lead and guide our Church. Let us pray that the Holy Spirit strengthens him with wisdom, courage, and humility as Christ’s Vicar in the world.
Good Shepherd Sunday is traditionally a time to reflect on vocations—especially to the priesthood, diaconate, and religious life. But it is also a time to uplift the vocation of Christian marriage and family life, where the seeds of faith are first planted and nurtured.
At the heart of every vocation is the call to discipleship through baptism. That call is lived out first in our families, then in the life of our parish community. It is through shared prayer, service, and generosity that we grow in faith and make Christ known to others.
And as we mark Mother’s Day weekend, let us take time to give thanks for the women who have shaped our faith and our lives. We remember and honor all mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, and spiritual mothers who have guided us with love and sacrifice. May their witness inspire us to live our own vocations with joy and generosity.
For Priests and Deacons
- During the homily, invite a moment of silent reflection on how each of us is responding to Christ’s voice in our personal vocation.
- Clearly communicate opportunities for parishioners to grow as disciples through prayer, service, and stewardship.
- At all Masses, honor the vocation of motherhood with words of appreciation and a special prayer of blessing.
For Parish Staff: 3 Meaningful Steps This May
- Ask for a Personalized Parish Plan
Your GiveCentral team can help create a custom giving and communication plan that helps re-engage lapsed donors and grow giving by 10% or more—especially during the Easter season. This service is completely free. - Use GC SmartLinks to Make Giving Easy
GC SmartLinks are secure, personalized links that recognize each donor by name and pre-fill their giving form—no login or app needed.
- Encourage new parishioners to make a pled
- Send SmartLinks multiple times a year to strengthen engagement.
- Need help? Visit the Knowledge Center in your GiveCentral dashboard or contact Teresa Meyer at teresa@givecentral.org.
3. Invite Meaningful Stories from Your Community
- Mother’s Day: Ask parishioners to submit a short story or reflection about a mother, grandmother, or godmother who shaped their faith.
- Memorial Day (May 27): Invite them to share the name or story of a loved one who served our country. These can be shared in bulletins, online, or in your prayer intentions.
For Families
Begin with this Mother’s Day Prayer:
A Prayer for Mothers
Loving God,
We thank You for the gift of our mothers—
for their love, wisdom, sacrifices, and constant prayers.
Whether near or far, with us or in eternal rest,
may they know our gratitude and Your blessing.
For mothers who gave us life and nurtured our faith,
for spiritual mothers and mentors,
for grandmothers, godmothers, and all women who reflect Your love—
we ask You to bless and strengthen them.
May Mary, Mother of the Church,
be their model and intercessor.
Amen.
Together as a family:
- Pray for our next Pope, that he may be a good and faithful shepherd.
- Talk to your children about vocations—encouraging them to listen for God’s call.
- Reflect together:
Can we give more of our time or service?
Can we increase our financial giving, even incrementally?
Visit your parish’s GiveCentral page to renew or adjust your giving plan.
When you give and serve as a family, you are living your vocation—and building up the Body of Christ.
Let us walk together in gratitude this Sunday: as disciples, as families, and as a flock guided by the Good Shepherd.
With gratitude and prayer,
Your Friends at GiveCentral
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Last modified: May 9, 2025
