I am the good shepherd, and I know mine and mine know me, just as the Father knows me
and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. (John 10:14-15)
May 20, 2025
Hello Everyone –
Thanks to the wonderful hospitality of Fr. Bob Cook, O.F.M. Conv., and the Conventual Franciscan Friars at the Basilica of St. Josaphat, we gathered for the Blue Mass on Monday, May 12, in order to honor, celebrate, and pray for those who serve in law enforcement and public safety, as first responders, firefighters, and for their families. It was a joyous celebration heightened by the presence of Milwaukee’s mayor, Cavalier Johnson.
Since many people were unable to attend, I share my reflection here from the Mass:
I have it on good authority that students at a certain parish school were learning about Jesus and his role as the Good Shepherd. They were given a month to memorize the 23rd Psalm — which they would have to recite individually at a school assembly — with the pastor and all the parents attending.
When the big night came — the first student nervously stepped up to the microphone and began: “The Lord is my Shepherd.” Then his mind went as blank as a wall. The parents waited while he struggled to remember the next line. Finally, in desperation, he said, “And that’s all I need to know.”
At first there was only a confused silence — and then the applause began — the child was right after all.
As part of the unfolding of the Easter Season, we celebrate what is traditionally known as Good Shepherd Sunday (the Fourth Sunday of Easter). We learn in that context about the importance of listening for the shepherd’s voice. This evening, the gospel again challenges us to attune our ears to hear his voice. In fact, we come to realize that we are called by name. All of this is based on the presumption that we desire to know the shepherd — to listen for and know the Lord.
Unless we are willing to listen and to hear — unless we are willing to carve out the time — unless we are open to the nearness of God — our knowledge of the Lord will not grow — nor our relationship with him.
As listeners — we live in the midst of so very many competing voices demanding our attention — we suffer through conflicting noises that assault our senses — we endure dissonant messages noisily challenging our belief systems and values.
As hearers — we can at times experience Jesus as silent in the midst of the noise — seemingly absent in the presence of our particular struggles. We wonder where is God and whether God really cares.
As busy Christians — we can easily become overwhelmed — distracted — discouraged.
So, in the course of our faith journey, we are challenged to discern the fundamental truth that the Lord indeed is our Shepherd. But more than just knowing the words, like the text of the 23rd Psalm, we are to contemplate who the words represent. The Lord calls us to hear his voice and to respond in love.
This evening, we gather in the beauty of this basilica to honor — to pay tribute to — and to pray for and bless all who serve as first responders, firefighters, who work in law enforcement, and public safety. We are indebted to you — for what you do — daily.
You too hear the voices of those in need, and you run to their aid — not counting the cost. With great courage you risk your very selves to care for — protect — and accompany all who have found themselves in complicated situations. You courageously bring order, healing, and solace to the unpredictable circumstances of life.
May you be rewarded for what you do — although you may simply consider it “your job.” To the rest of us — to the rest of the community — you are the unsung heroes who bring hope to all. May God bless you and your families and keep you safe.
As I do for you, please pray for me,
Most Reverend Jeffrey S. Grob
Archbishop of Milwaukee
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