In the Gospel for the Fourth Sunday of Easter, Jesus states: “Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. They will not follow a stranger, but they will run from him because they do not know the voice of strangers” (John 10:1-5). I wish to sincerely thank all of you for your many efforts to reach out to the ‘flock’ entrusted to your care. You are not being strangers to your people; although they may not be physically present, they are able to hear your voice and follow. I am edified by the many creative ways that pastors are trying to reach out to parishioners. During this pandemic, it is so critical that we all stay connected to avoid feelings of isolation. In verse eleven of this chapter (not part of the Gospel passage), Jesus states, “I am the Good Shepherd.” Thank you for being such ‘good shepherds’ to your people during these difficult times. This Sunday we also acknowledge our need for more shepherds in our diocese as we pray for an increase of vocations.