The Gospel passage for this Sunday sees Jesus described as the Good Shepherd (John 10:1-10). This image of Jesus has been trashed, trivialised and sentimentalised by a kitsch and commercialised culture that sees religion as being weak and ineffective. Jesus is pictured carrying a sheep on his shoulders, walking into the golden glow of the sunset, with lambs frolicking in the field beside him. In reality, the parable describes the shepherd fighting to protect the sheep against thieves and robbers, who would otherwise attack, kill and destroy the flock. The fact that Christians are urged to love one another does not mean that they should not look after their own. The command is to love people in particular, not humanity in general!

Weekly reflections on the Gospel for the coming Sunday are available on request. They will come once a week and will never be more than 200 words. If you would like to receive these emails then please email the Parish Secretary