4th Sunday of Easter Year C
Good Shepherd Sunday
Sunday May 11, 2025
Mass Readings for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C (Good Shepherd Sunday)
- First Reading – Acts 13:14, 43-52: Paul and Barnabas preached to Jews and Gentiles, facing jealousy and persecution but spreading the word of the Lord. They left Antioch, filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 100: We joyfully serve the LORD, knowing He made us and cares for us. His goodness and love last forever, and His faithfulness continues through all generations.
- Second Reading – Revelation 7:9, 14B-17: I saw a great crowd from all nations worshiping before God’s throne. They are protected and led by the Lamb, who wipes away every tear.
- Gospel – John 10:27-30: Jesus promises eternal life to his followers, assuring that no one can take them from him or the Father, as they are one.
My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. give them eternal life, and they shall never perish.
John 10:27-28
Themes for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C (Good Shepherd Sunday)
The 4th Sunday of Easter Year C is also known as Good Shepherd Sunday. The readings focus on Jesus as the Good Shepherd and how His followers are called to listen and follow Him.
- Jesus as Shepherd: Jesus calls Himself the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep. This shows His care and protection for us.
- Listening to Jesus: Jesus says His sheep hear His voice. We are called to listen to His teachings and follow His guidance.
- Salvation for All: In Revelation, a great multitude stands before God. This emphasizes that salvation is offered to everyone.
- Faithful Witnesses: Paul and Barnabas speak boldly about Jesus in Acts. They show us the importance of spreading the Good News.
- Endurance in Faith: The Book of Revelation speaks of those who have come out of great tribulation. This encourages us to stay faithful despite challenges.
- Eternal Life: Jesus promises eternal life to His followers. This reminds us of the hope and reward of following Him.
The themes for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C help us understand our relationship with Jesus, the Good Shepherd. They also encourage us to listen, follow, and remain faithful to Him.
See the Homilies and Reflections section and the More Thoughts section for further expansion on these readings and some reflection questions for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C (Good Shepherd Sunday).
Resources for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C (Good Shepherd Sunday)
Sunday May 11, 2025
I Hear My Shepherd – A Lesson Plan on Listening to God
This lesson plan for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C helps youth understand the importance of listening to God. It teaches that we need to make an effort to hear His voice, especially with many distractions in our lives. Youth will also learn how to use the Examen, a prayerful reflection, to better listen to God.
Based on the Gospel Reading for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, this lesson emphasizes the need to focus on Jesus, the Good Shepherd, and to recognize His voice in our daily lives.
Shepherd’s Voice Game
The Shepherd’s Voice Game is a fun way for youth to learn the importance of listening and sticking together. Each group of sheep must follow their shepherd’s voice to find their way home.
This game ties in with a lesson on community and staying united. It works well as an energizer for a lesson or meeting on the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, also known as Good Shepherd Sunday. It helps youth understand how listening to Jesus, our Good Shepherd, and supporting each other can guide us in our lives.
The Daily Examen
The Daily Examen, developed by St. Ignatius of Loyola, is a prayer that helps us reflect on our day and see how God is speaking to us through our experiences and emotions. It is a way to listen for the voice of Jesus, which is a key theme for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C.
This prayer encourages gratitude, self-awareness, and spiritual growth by helping us recognize God’s presence in our daily lives. Incorporating the Examen into our routine can deepen our relationship with God and enhance our spiritual journey.
Acts of the Apostles
The Acts of the Apostles, a continuation of the Gospel of Luke, details the early Christian Church’s growth and the apostles’ teachings after Jesus’ ascension. The first reading for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, Acts 13:14, 43-52, highlights Paul and Barnabas spreading the Good News despite opposition.
This book shows the challenges and successes of the apostles, emphasizing the importance of their mission. Understanding this background helps us appreciate their courage and dedication in sharing Jesus’ message.
Psalm 100
Psalm 100 is a beautiful reflection for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C. It acknowledges God as our creator and shepherd, who loves and protects us. This psalm expresses joy and gratitude for God’s eternal kindness and care. It reminds us that we are treasured by God and invites us to serve Him with happiness and praise.
Understanding the Book of Revelation
Understanding the Book of Revelation can be challenging. The second reading for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, Revelation 7:9, 14B-17, shows a vision of a great multitude before God. This reading reminds us that every time we celebrate the Eucharist, we join in a liturgy where heaven meets earth.
Revelation’s imagery helps us see the connection between our worship and the heavenly celebration.
Gospel of John
The Gospel of John, written by the apostle John, stands out for its spiritual focus on Jesus’ life and teachings. Unlike the synoptic gospels, it highlights Jesus’ words over His miracles and divides into the Book of Signs and the Book of Glory.
The Gospel for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, John 10:27-30, reflects this unique approach, emphasizing Jesus as the Good Shepherd. Understanding the theology in John’s Gospel is important for deepening our faith.
Homilies and Commentaries for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C (Good Shepherd Sunday)
Sunday May 11, 2025
The Great Army of the Martyrs
In his homily for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, Bishop Robert Barron reflects on the Book of Revelation and the power of martyrdom. He emphasizes that the early Christian Church, despite lacking military power, held a greater power through their faith and witness.
Bishop Barron contrasts the might of the Roman Empire with the true strength of the Christian martyrs, who stood firm in their faith despite persecution. This message challenges us to consider which “army” we belong to—the worldly powers or the faithful followers of Christ.
Jesus the Faithful Lamb of God
In his reflection for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, Jeff Cavins emphasizes the importance of recognizing and responding to God’s voice. He highlights that Jesus, the faithful Lamb of God, always listened to His Father.
Cavins encourages us to hear God’s voice through the Church’s teachings, Scripture, and personal prayer, such as Lectio Divina. He urges us to cultivate a habit of spending time with God to understand His will and follow it faithfully, leading to a deeper relationship with the Good Shepherd.
Shepherd and the Lamb
In his reflection for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, Scott Hahn explains how Israel’s mission to bring God’s salvation to the ends of the earth is fulfilled in the Church. Through the preaching of Paul and Barnabas, a new covenant people is born, glorifying God.
The Church remains faithful to the apostles’ grace, allowing people from all lands to hear and follow the Shepherd’s voice. The Good Shepherd is also the Lamb, whose sacrifice brings a new Passover, freeing all nations from sin. The Church, as the great multitude in Revelation, fulfills God’s promise to Abraham, inviting all to worship in the heavenly Temple.
The Good Shepherd
In his homily for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, Bishop Robert Barron explores the significance of Jesus as the Good Shepherd whose voice we must recognize and follow. He emphasizes that Christianity is about a relationship with Jesus, not just a set of ideas.
Bishop Barron urges us to discern Jesus’ voice through Scripture, Church teachings, conscience, and spiritual friendships. This voice guides us to eternal life and true peace. The homily challenges us to stay attuned to Jesus amidst the many distractions in our lives, highlighting the ultimate goal of reaching eternal life.
Reflection for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C (Good Shepherd Sunday)
The 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, also known as Good Shepherd Sunday, focuses on Jesus as our caring and guiding Shepherd. Through the readings, we learn about the importance of hearing His voice, spreading the Good News, and the inclusive call to follow Him. These reflections help us understand and apply these themes in our daily lives.
Sharing the Voice of the Good Shepherd
On the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, we learn about the boldness of Paul and Barnabas in spreading the Good News about Jesus. Their example shows us the importance of sharing the message of the Good Shepherd. Just as they spoke courageously, we too must be willing to share the Good News so others can hear Jesus’ voice.
Paul and Barnabas faced many challenges, but they did not give up. They understood that people needed to hear about Jesus to follow Him. Their commitment inspires us to be brave in our faith and to share it with others, even when it is difficult.
To help others hear the voice of the Good Shepherd, we must speak about Jesus in our daily lives. This can be done through kind words, loving actions, and sharing our faith stories. When we do this, we help others recognize the voice of Jesus and follow Him.
On the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, we remember the call to spread the Good News. By sharing Jesus’ message, we help others join His flock. Just as Paul and Barnabas did, let us be bold in our mission to bring the Good Shepherd’s voice to everyone.
The Inclusive Call of the Good Shepherd
On the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, we focus on the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In Revelation, a great multitude stands before God. This vision shows us that salvation is offered to everyone. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, wants all people to follow Him, not just a select few.
In the past, hearing God’s voice was a privilege for priests and prophets. But Jesus changes this. He calls everyone to hear His voice and follow Him. His message is for all people, no matter who they are or where they come from.
Jesus, our Good Shepherd, knows each of us by name. He cares for us and guides us on the right path. When we listen to His voice, we find the way to true peace and happiness.
On the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, we are reminded of the inclusive love of Jesus. He reaches out to all of us, inviting us to be part of His flock. By following Him, we join the great multitude standing before God, united in faith and love.
Jesus, Our Guiding Shepherd
On the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, we reflect on Jesus as our Good Shepherd. This passage in the Gospel of John happens before the resurrection. Jesus and His disciples are in Jerusalem for Hanukkah. During Hanukkah, a reading from the Book of Numbers, where Moses hears God’s voice (Numbers 7:89), is traditional. So, it makes sense that Jesus would talk about His sheep hearing His voice.
In the Book of Numbers, only Moses hears God’s voice. But Jesus brings a new message. He wants everyone, not just priests and prophets, to hear Him. This shows His love and care for all people.
God is speaking to us, but we need to listen. The noise and distractions of the world can make it hard to hear Him. We must find quiet times and places to focus on His message. In these moments of silence, we can hear Jesus guiding us.
On the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, we remember that Jesus is our Shepherd. He knows us, loves us, and calls us to follow Him. By listening to His voice, we can find the path to eternal life.
The 4th Sunday of Easter Year C invites us to reflect on Jesus as our Good Shepherd. We are reminded to listen to His voice, share the Good News, and embrace His inclusive call. By doing so, we join the great multitude of believers, united in faith and guided by His love.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, our Good Shepherd, help us to hear Your voice and follow You. Give us the courage to share Your message with others. Guide us in our daily lives and lead us to eternal life with You. Amen.
Reflection Questions for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C (Good Shepherd Sunday)
- How can I better listen to Jesus’ voice in my daily life?
- What are some ways I can share the Good News with others?
- How do Paul and Barnabas inspire me to be bold in my faith?
- In what ways can I create moments of silence to hear God’s message?
- How does the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd comfort and guide me?
- What does the inclusive call of Jesus mean to me personally?
- How can I help others recognize the voice of the Good Shepherd?
- What challenges might I face in spreading the Good News, and how can I overcome them?
- How does knowing Jesus cares for everyone change my view of others?
- In what ways can I join the great multitude standing before God in faith and love?
Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C (Good Shepherd Sunday)
Music Suggestions for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C (Good Shepherd Sunday)
Sunday May 11, 2025
The music selections for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C focus on themes like Jesus as the Good Shepherd, the joy of resurrection, and the inclusiveness of God’s call. The hymns and songs celebrate Jesus’ guidance, His love for all people, and the invitation to follow Him. They emphasize listening to His voice, spreading the Good News, and rejoicing in His resurrection. These selections help us reflect on our relationship with Jesus and our mission to share His message with others.
- Alive Again by Matt Maher
- All Creatures of Our God and King by Passion
- All the Ends of the Earth by the St. Louis Jesuits
- Alleluia! Love is Alive by Steve Angrisano, Jesse Manibusan & Sarah Hart
- Because the Lord Is My Shepherd by Christopher Walker
- Christ the Good Shepherd by Bob Hurd
- Easter Alleluia by Jack Miffleton
- Glorious Day by Casting Crowns
- I Have Loved You by Michael Joncas
- I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say by Ed Bolduc
- Jesus Christ Is Risen Today
- Just Like You by Matt Maher
- Lead Me Lord by John D. Becker
- Like a Shepherd by Bob Dufford
- Psalm 100: We Are God’s People, The Sheep of His Flock by Christopher Wemp
- Shepherd by Amanda Cook
- Shepherd Me O God by Marty Haugen
- Sing of the Lord’s Goodness
- The King of Love My Shepherd Is by Henry W. Baker
- The Lord Is My Shepherd by Carey Landry
- There Is a Lamb by Kaden Slay
- There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy by Fredrick William Faber
- We Are His People by Craig Colson and Kristen Colson
- We Are His People by Greg Walton
- You Satisfy the Hungry Heart
Music directors and musicians are encouraged to explore these selections for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C. These songs highlight the themes of Jesus as our Good Shepherd and the joy of His resurrection. Try incorporating these pieces into your worship service and see how they inspire your congregation. Feel free to suggest your own music selections in the comments to share with others.
Questions and Answers for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C (Good Shepherd Sunday)
What date is the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C (Good Shepherd Sunday)?
The next date is Sunday May 11, 2025.
For other years see the links below:
4th Sunday of Easter Year A
4th Sunday of Easter Year B
What are the Mass readings for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C (Good Shepherd Sunday)?
The Mass readings for Sunday May 11, 2025 are:
First Reading – Acts 13:14, 43-52: Paul and Barnabas in Antioch
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 100: We Belong to the Lord
Second Reading – Revelation 7:9, 14B-17: Vision of the Multitude
Gospel – John 10:27-30: The Good Shepherd’s Promise
Why is the message of Paul and Barnabas important in the first reading for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C (Good Shepherd Sunday)?
Their message is important because it shows the need to spread the Good News. They faced opposition but continued to preach about Jesus.
What does the “great multitude” in Revelation 7:9 mean?
The great multitude represents all people who have been saved. It shows that salvation is open to everyone, not just a few.
What is the “great tribulation” mentioned in Revelation 7:14?
The great tribulation refers to times of suffering and trials. It shows that followers of Jesus may face hardships but should remain faithful.
How can we remain faithful during difficult times?
We can remain faithful by praying, reading the Bible, and staying connected to our Church community. These support us in our faith journey.
What does “My sheep hear my voice” mean in the Gospel for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C (Good Shepherd Sunday)?
It means that Jesus’ followers listen to His teachings. They recognize and follow His guidance.
How can we hear Jesus’ voice today?
We hear Jesus’ voice through prayer, reading the Bible, and following Church teachings. These help us understand His will.
Why does Jesus call Himself the Good Shepherd?
Jesus calls Himself the Good Shepherd because He cares for and protects His followers. He leads us to safety and provides for our needs.
What does Jesus mean by “eternal life” in John 10:28?
Eternal life means living forever with God in heaven. Jesus promises this to those who follow Him.
Why is Good Shepherd Sunday important?
Good Shepherd Sunday reminds us of Jesus’ care and guidance. It encourages us to trust and follow Him as our Shepherd.
How can we apply the readings to our lives on the 4th Sunday of Easter Year C?
We can apply the readings by listening to Jesus, spreading the Good News, and remaining faithful during trials. These actions help us grow closer to Him.
Listening to the Good Shepherd
The 4th Sunday of Easter Year C, also known as Good Shepherd Sunday, focuses on Jesus as the Good Shepherd. He cares for His sheep, calls them by name, and leads them to safety. Jesus reminds us that His sheep hear His voice and follow Him. This shows the close connection between Jesus and those who believe in Him.
The readings also speak about spreading the Good News. Paul and Barnabas boldly shared the message of Jesus, even when faced with challenges. Their example encourages us to share our faith with others so they can also hear Jesus’ voice.
We are reminded that Jesus’ call is for everyone. The vision in Revelation shows a great crowd from every nation standing before God. This tells us that Jesus welcomes all people to follow Him. His love is for everyone, no matter where they come from.
Listening to Jesus can be hard with the noise of the world around us. We need to make time to focus on His voice. When we do, we will find peace and hope in His promise of eternal life.
Your Turn
The 4th Sunday of Easter Year C asks us to think about how we listen to Jesus. Do you take time to hear His voice in your life? How do you share His message with others?
Reflect on these questions and consider sharing your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s help each other follow the Good Shepherd.
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