In top photo, Bishop O’Connell preaches his homily during the April 26 feast day Mass in Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, Beverly. Mike Ehrmann photo
Father Jorge Bedoya and the parishioners of Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish had four great reasons to celebrate April 26.
For one, it was Good Shepherd Sunday, their parish feast day.
Second, the Beverly community spent it with the Diocese’s chief shepherd — Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., — who celebrated Mass.
PHOTO GALLERY: Good Shepherd Sunday in Beverly
Third, the day also marked World Day of Prayer for Vocations, giving the community a chance to unite their prayers with faithful from throughout the Diocese and the world for an increase in vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, religious life and for others to respond to serving the Church as lay ministers.
And fourth, Good Shepherd Sunday coincided with the Diocese’s Called by Name initiative in which parishioners could submit the names of young men they believe might have a vocation to the priesthood.
Highlights of the Mass included the entrance procession in which representatives from the three cultural communities – English, Spanish and Portuguese – participated along with various ministry representatives. After Communion, Father Bedoya presented the Bishop with a framed painting of Jesus the Good Shepherd.
At the reception that followed, Bishop O’Connell enjoyed mingling with the hundreds in attendance and taking lots of photos.
“I frequently have the honor and privilege of visiting my parishes throughout the Diocese of Trenton. My pastoral visit to Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish was especially joyful,” said Bishop O’Connell.
The Bishop acknowledged Father Bedoya, Deacon Gary Schmitt, the parish staff and the entire parish community who “welcomed me so warmly for Mass and brunch this Good Shepherd Sunday. I felt right at home.”
“It was so evident at how lovingly Father Bedoya has worked to build up and bring together the American, Hispanic and Portuguese communities into one parish family. I was deeply moved by their joy and affection. My visit to Good Shepherd was one I will not soon forget.”
A full story on the Bishop’s Good Shepherd Sunday visit to Beverly will be posted on TrentonMonitor.com in the coming days.