In today’s readings and psalm, we encounter the comforting and familiar image of the shepherd. This image, deeply resonant with New Zealanders, cautions us against misleading shepherds and directs us towards Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Mark’s Gospel emphasizes Jesus as the Shepherd who knows and is known by his sheep. This imagery has a rich history, with early Christian art from the second century depicting Jesus as the Good Shepherd, holding or embracing sheep.
Pope Francis, on a Good Shepherd Sunday, highlighted that Christians find our identity in Jesus’ embrace, urging us to place ourselves in his presence to be uplifted. Similarly, cathedrals serve as focal points of spiritual strength, offering welcome, comfort, new birth, refuge, and healing. As Bishop Michael noted, a cathedral is the spiritual home of the local Church, symbolizing the Church’s Apostolic lineage and connection to the Good Shepherd.
Recently, the faithful of the Christchurch Diocese have reflected on the significance of a cathedral. We have shared sentiments such as the cathedral being a divine sanctuary, a city icon leading people to God, and a welcoming place of mercy. Guided by these reflections and supported by a diverse advisory group, Bishop Michael has been discerning a patronal name for the new cathedral. The initial list of seven names has been narrowed down to three: The Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, or The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament.
Bishop Michael, in the tradition of the Apostles, is taking time for prayer and contemplation, seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance in this decision. We, who are the faithful of the diocese, have been invited to join in an Hour of Prayer, aligning our prayers with the bishop’s for a patron who can shepherd us in this age. The chosen name for the new cathedral will be announced early next month.
Fr. Tien Cao (from Bishop Michael’s notes)
