Bishop John Bosco Auram Reflects on Christ as the Good Shepherd

“Vocation Sunday is a reminder to all of us of the merciful and compassionate love of Jesus,” Bishop Auram stated.

His Excellency Bishop John Bosco Auram, Bishop of the Diocese of Kimbe, presided over a Eucharistic Celebration on 26 April at Christ the King Parish, Badili. The Mass commenced at 9:15 a.m., as the Catholic faithful gathered to celebrate Vocations Sunday and the Fourth Sunday of Easter. He was joined by the co-celebrant, Fr Pais, MSC Provincial.

His Excellency Bishop John Bosco Auram distributing Holy Communion to the Catholic Faithful of Christ the King Parish

The liturgy was animated by the youth of Badili Parish, whose vibrant singing reflected the spirit of a community united in worship before the Lord.

In his homily, Bishop Auram centred his reflection on Christ as the Good Shepherd, a profound biblical image that expresses Jesus’ love, protection, and sacrificial leadership for His people. Drawing from the Gospel of John (10:11–15), he spoke of the deep connection between divine love and human weakness.

“The Gospel reveals Christ’s sacrificial love as the Good Shepherd, who willingly lays down His life for His people,” the Bishop explained.

He further reflected on Jesus’ prayer to the Father, highlighting the obedience of Christ in accepting the Father’s will, even to the point of His crucifixion. This, he noted, reveals the tension between human struggle and divine purpose, and the perfect surrender of Jesus to the will of the Father.

Bishop Auram reminded the faithful that the promises of God, proclaimed in Scripture, are fulfilled in Christ.

“Jesus assures us, ‘I will never forget you, my people; I have carved you on the palm of my hands,’” he said.

The youths at Christ the King-Badili Parish

He emphasised the Lord’s constant protection and guidance, noting that Christ, the Good Shepherd, cares for the vulnerable, strengthens the weak, heals the sick, and seeks out the lost.

Encouraging the faithful to imitate Christ, Bishop Auram called them to live out the values of love, sacrifice, and service in their daily lives.

“As parents, you rise early each morning to prepare for your children—not out of obligation, but out of love. That is sacrifice,” he said.

In his concluding remarks, the Bishop highlighted the importance of mutual understanding within families and communities.

“It is important that we recognise each other’s strengths and weaknesses, so that we may grow together in love, protection, and guidance,” he said. “A home truly becomes a home when love is present.”

The Eucharistic Celebration concluded in a spirit of unity and hope, with the faithful encouraged to deepen their relationship with Christ, the Good Shepherd, and to live out His example in their daily lives.