Faithful shepherds

Several priests have been faithful overseers of my spiritual journey. I thank God for them all. These men have taken their role as shepherds of God's flock very seriously; they have committed their lives to guiding the faith of those entrusted to their care... I owe them my support, respect and prayers.

A few years ago, I witnessed our parish priest deal with some grave issues over a few days. A lesser man would have succumbed to the pressure. I marveled at the manner in which he maintained his composure, while smiling and being available to all who needed him. I thanked God for being with His servant, for giving him the strength and zeal to love and serve His people.

Let us include church leaders and priests in our prayers this Lent; when we are tempted to criticize and complain, let's pray instead that they will be faithful shepherds who lead God's flock by the example of our “Chief Shepherd”. And by all means, let’s play a more active role in building up the Body of Christ.