Sunday April 26, 2026
Mass Readings for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday
- First Reading – Acts 2:14A, 36-41: Peter urged the people to repent, be baptized, and receive the Holy Spirit. About three thousand accepted the message and were baptized.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 23: The Lord is my shepherd, providing for all my needs, guiding me, and comforting me. His goodness and kindness will follow me always, and I will dwell in His house forever.
- Second Reading – 1 Peter 2:20b-25: Christ suffered for us, setting an example. He bore our sins so we could live righteously. We were lost, but now we return to Him.
- Gospel – John 10:1-10: Jesus explains that he is the gate for the sheep. The shepherd enters through the gate, and the sheep follow his voice. Jesus came to give life abundantly.
The gatekeeper opens it for him, and the sheep hear his voice, as the shepherd calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.
John 10:3
Themes for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday
The 4th Sunday of Easter Year A, known as Good Shepherd Sunday, highlights Jesus as the Good Shepherd who cares for His flock. The readings emphasize the themes of guidance, protection, and the call to follow Christ.
- Jesus as the Good Shepherd: Jesus calls Himself the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep and lays down His life for them. This image shows His deep care and willingness to sacrifice for us.
- Repentance and Baptism: In Acts, Peter calls for repentance and baptism in the name of Jesus. This theme emphasizes turning away from sin and beginning a new life in Christ.
- Following Christ’s Example: Peter’s letter urges us to follow Christ’s example of suffering patiently. This teaches us to endure hardships with trust in God.
- Hearing God’s Voice: Jesus says His sheep hear His voice and follow Him. This highlights the importance of listening to Jesus and discerning His guidance in our lives.
- New Life in Christ: Peter speaks of dying to sin and living for righteousness. This theme stresses the new life we receive through Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection.
- Conversion and Salvation: Acts recounts the conversion of many who heard Peter’s message. This shows the power of the Gospel to change hearts and bring salvation.
4th Sunday of Easter Year A (Good Shepherd Sunday) reminds us of Jesus’ care and guidance as our Shepherd. We are called to listen to His voice, follow Him, and live out our faith daily.
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 A – Good Shepherd Sunday.
Resources for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday
Sunday April 26, 2026
I Hear My Shepherd – A Lesson Plan on Listening to God
This lesson plan for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday helps youth understand the importance of listening to God amidst life’s distractions. By practicing the Examen, a form of prayer, they learn to hear God’s voice more clearly. Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” The lesson encourages youth to recognize and respond to God’s call. This reflection aims to deepen their faith and commitment to following Jesus.
A Good Shepherd Maze Puzzle
This Good Shepherd maze puzzle is a fun way for children to learn about the Good Shepherd on the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday. The puzzle helps children understand God’s love and care while developing problem-solving skills. As they guide a lost sheep back to the Shepherd, they reflect on how God guides us back to safety when we feel lost. The quote, “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me,” reminds us of God’s intimate knowledge and care for each of us. This activity reinforces the message of God’s love and protection.
A Prayer of Peace and Comfort: Based on Psalm 23
On the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday, we are reminded that life is full of ups and downs, and everyone faces challenges. As believers, we find comfort and hope in God’s love and care. This prayer, based on Psalm 23, highlights God’s role as our Shepherd and our identity as His beloved sheep. It reminds us that God guides us, provides for us, and protects us through life’s difficulties. Trusting in His presence, we find peace and solutions to our problems. Let us continue to follow our Shepherd and praise His name forever.
Shepherd’s Voice Game
This game for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday helps youth understand the importance of listening. Each group of blindfolded “sheep” must listen to their designated “shepherd’s” voice and follow it, reinforcing the lesson of sticking together in community. The game is played by dividing into groups of four or five, with one person as the shepherd. The shepherd stands at one end of the play area while the sheep, holding hands, start at the other end. The shepherds call their sheep, and the first group to gather around their shepherd wins. This fun activity emphasizes listening and community.
Homilies and Reflections for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday
Sunday April 26, 2026
How to Proclaim the Faith
In this homily for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday, Bishop Robert Barron discusses Peter’s powerful speech in Acts 2. He explains the importance of evangelical preaching that is public and bold, addressing sin directly and proclaiming Jesus as Lord and Christ. Bishop Barron emphasizes that true evangelization cuts to the heart, prompting repentance and baptism. He encourages Christians to stand apart from the secular culture, using the gifts of the Holy Spirit received in Baptism to build God’s kingdom. This homily calls for a renewed commitment to living out the faith boldly.
Do You Know the Voice of the Shepherd?
In his reflection for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday, Jeff Cavins emphasizes the importance of recognizing and following Jesus’ voice amidst the many distractions in our culture. He compares the relationship between a shepherd and sheep to our relationship with Jesus, highlighting that sheep know their shepherd’s voice because they spend significant time with him. Cavins encourages spending time with Jesus through prayer, reading the Bible, attending Mass, and other sacraments. By doing so, we can discern Jesus’ guidance in our lives and make decisions that align with His will.
Unjust Suffering/The Welcoming Prayer
In his homily for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday, Fr. Richard Rohr reflects on the misunderstood depth of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. He explains that truly understanding the shepherd’s role means finding strength in facing undeserved suffering, as highlighted in 1 Peter. Fr. Rohr emphasizes that blaming others for our suffering only harms us further. Instead, Jesus teaches us to let go of anger and embrace God’s guidance. The “Welcoming Prayer,” introduced by Fr. Thomas Keating, encourages accepting life’s challenges for spiritual healing, showing how Jesus shepherds our souls through suffering and resilience.
What Are We To Do?
In his reflection for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday, Scott Hahn emphasizes the resurrection as a call to conversion. Peter’s preaching reveals Jesus as both Lord and Messiah, the Good Shepherd promised by God to guide His people. Hahn explains that Jesus leads us to baptism, confirmation, and the Eucharist, as echoed in Psalm 23. We are reminded to repent daily and seek forgiveness, following the Shepherd’s example of patience and trust in God. Jesus’ suffering and resurrection guide us through life’s challenges, leading us to abundant life.
More Thoughts for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday
The readings for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A, Good Shepherd Sunday, invite us to see Jesus as the Good Shepherd who cares for His flock. This image shows Jesus’ deep love and care for each of us. We are reminded to trust in His guidance and protection.
Jesus the Good Shepherd
The image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd is powerful and comforting. He knows each one of us by name and loves us deeply. He calls us to follow Him and promises to lead us to eternal life.
In John 10:1-10, Jesus talks about being the Good Shepherd who enters by the gate. His sheep hear His voice and follow Him. This shows the close relationship Jesus wants with each of us, guiding us through life’s challenges.
As we reflect on this image, we can ask ourselves if we are listening to Jesus’ voice in our daily lives. Are we following His teachings and trusting in His care? The Good Shepherd invites us to a relationship of love, trust, and obedience.
Protection and Perseverance
The Good Shepherd offers protection from those who would lead us astray. He guides us to the gates of heaven, but we must hear His voice and follow. This involves repentance and a commitment to do what He asks.
Peter calls for repentance and baptism in Acts 2:14A, 36-41. He tells the people to turn away from their sins and follow Jesus. This turning away from sin and toward Jesus is essential for our spiritual journey.
In following Jesus, we may face suffering and difficulties. 1 Peter 2:20b-25 reminds us to follow Christ’s example of patient suffering. Through our struggles, we can find strength in knowing Jesus walks with us, offering His guidance and protection.
A Community of Believers
We are not alone in our journey. We are part of a larger community of believers, the Church, led by Christ Himself. As members of this community, we are called to support and care for one another, just as the Good Shepherd cares for His sheep.
Baptism brings us into this community and fills us with the Holy Spirit. In Acts, many were baptized and became part of the early Church. This sense of community strengthens our faith and helps us grow together.
Being part of the Church means we support each other in our faith journey. We find comfort in our shared belief in the Good Shepherd who suffered for us. Reflecting on the readings for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A reminds us of our role in this community.
Good Shepherd Sunday teaches us about Jesus’ deep care and guidance as our Shepherd. We are called to listen to His voice, follow His path, and support one another as a community of believers. Let us trust in His protection and love, knowing He leads us to eternal life.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, our Good Shepherd, help us to hear Your voice and follow You. Guide us through our struggles and protect us from harm. May we always trust in Your love and care. Amen.
Reflection Questions for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday
- How do you experience Jesus as the Good Shepherd in your life?
- In what ways can you better listen to His voice?
- What steps can you take to follow Jesus more closely?
- How does repentance play a role in your spiritual journey?
- What challenges do you face in trusting Jesus’ guidance?
- How does the hope of eternal life impact your daily life?
- How can you support others in your faith community?
- What does being part of the Church mean to you?
- How can you grow in your relationship with Jesus through the sacraments?
- What can you do to help others hear and follow the Good Shepherd?
Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday
Music Suggestions for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday
Sunday April 26, 2026
The music selections for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday focus on themes of guidance, protection, and trust in God. Many of these songs reflect the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, who cares for and leads His flock. The lyrics often speak of finding peace and comfort in God’s presence, trusting in His care during difficult times, and rejoicing in His love and mercy. Some songs are more meditative, helping us to reflect on God’s steadfast love, while others are joyful and celebratory, praising God for His goodness and faithfulness.
- Abide with Me
- Alive Again
- God of Wonders
- How Can I Keep from Singing
- How He Loves
- In God Alone
- It Is Well
- Like a Shepherd
- Love Is Here
- Psalm 23 (The Lord Is My Shepherd)
- Rain Down
- Shepherd Me, O God
- Sing With All the Saints in Glory
- The King of Love My Shepherd Is
- The Lord Is My Shepherd
- We Are Hungry
- We Come to You
- I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say
- You Are the Voice
Music directors and musicians are encouraged to explore these selections for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday. These songs can enhance the worship experience by reinforcing the themes of the readings. Feel free to try these suggestions and share your own favorite songs that fit the theme of Good Shepherd Sunday in the comments. Your input can help create a rich and meaningful musical worship for everyone.
Questions and Answers for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday
What date is the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday?
The next date is Sunday April 26, 2026.
For other years see the links below:
4th Sunday of Easter Year B – Good Shepherd Sunday
4th Sunday of Easter Year C – Good Shepherd Sunday
What are the Mass readings for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A – Good Shepherd Sunday?
The Catholic Mass readings for Sunday April 26, 2026 are:
First Reading – Acts 2:14A, 36-41: Peter’s Sermon on Pentecost
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 23; The Lord is My Shepherd
Second Reading – 1 Peter 2:20b-25: Following Christ’s Example in Suffering
Gospel – John 10:1-10: The Good Shepherd and His Flock
What does Peter mean by “Repent and be baptized” in the second reading for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A?
Peter is asking people to turn away from their sins and be baptized. Baptism is the start of a new life in Christ. It means accepting Jesus and following His teachings.
What does it mean to follow Jesus’ example of suffering patiently (1 Peter 2:20b-25)?
It means enduring hardships without complaining, trusting that God is with us. Jesus suffered for us without retaliating. We are called to have the same patience and trust in God’s plan.
What does Jesus mean by “I am the gate for the sheep” in the Gospel for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A?
Jesus is saying He is the way to salvation. He protects us and leads us to eternal life. By following Him, we find safety and guidance.
Why does Jesus call Himself the Good Shepherd?
Jesus uses this image to show His care and love for us. Like a shepherd cares for his sheep, Jesus knows and loves each of us. He is willing to lay down His life for us.
How can we recognize Jesus’ voice in our lives?
We recognize Jesus’ voice through prayer, reading the Bible, and listening to the teachings of the Church. Spending time with God helps us know His voice. Following His commandments also helps us stay close to Him.
How does the image of the Good Shepherd apply to our daily lives?
The Good Shepherd shows us that Jesus is always caring for us. We can trust Him to guide and protect us every day. By following Him, we find peace and direction in our lives.
What is the importance of being part of the Church community?
Being part of the Church helps us grow in faith and support each other. The Church is like a flock of sheep with Jesus as the Shepherd. Together, we can help each other stay on the right path.
How can we support one another in our faith journey?
We can pray for each other, offer encouragement, and share our faith experiences. Being there for each other in times of need strengthens our community. We follow the Good Shepherd’s example by caring for one another.
What is the hope of eternal life mentioned in the readings for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A?
The hope of eternal life is the promise that we will be with Jesus forever. This gives us strength and courage to face challenges. It reminds us that our ultimate goal is to be with Christ in heaven.
How can repentance and baptism change our lives?
Repentance and baptism mark the beginning of a new life in Christ. They help us turn away from sin and start fresh with Jesus. This change leads us to a closer relationship with Him and a more fulfilling life.
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