Throughout church history, pastoring (shepherding) has been a prime image for leadership and care, and today pastoral ministry includes not only those named or ordained as pastors but many who follow different calls to serve and lead others.

The accounts of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes offer ample material for reflection and prayer. Jesus meets that most basic human need, hunger, and does so with largess and compassion

Today’s Gospel provides a window into the life of the pre-Easter Jesus.

Awareness of God’s call, traveling light and risking rejection, these are the carry-ons for true prophets.

Two themes echo throughout the readings: covenant and sacrifice.