To consider the gift of John Neumann (1811-1860), reflect on a life of service, zeal and compassion dedicated to the guidance of the people of God in the new world (USA). Examine the heart to understand how or what kind of service God has planted in your heart. "The Little Bishop", as he was known, was called by God's Spirit to leave his native Bohemia to lend a hand in the American missions.
After beginning his work in the area of New York City, young John was ordained in 1836 ... the beginning of 24 years of priestly service that eventually bring him to Philadelphia. He is buried at the Redemptorist Fathers' church, St.Peter, on 5th Street in Philadelphia (if you visit Philadelphia ... and St. Katherine Drexel is buried in the northerneastern section of the city). His remains are contained in a sealed glass enclosure beneath an altar in the lower church.
Bishop John (consecrated in 1852) labored for parishes and established the first parish schools. As well, he inaugurated the Forty Hours devotions in the USA. He was a man in the city and of the city. He died walking back to his office after visiting and anointing a dying person. He fell dead on the front steps of a row house in the central city Cathedral parish.
Both readings from the liturgy lend much to a reflection on Bishop John's life. As well, the words of both Paul and John the Evangelist open our minds and hearts to the deeper meanings in the life of service one can experience in making a personal response to the vocational call received from God.
John's account of Jesus' words speak of what it means to be a leader, a caretaker, rather than simply a hired man. Jesus is teaching what it means to be called and the expectation placed upon the one who is called. Are we not, all of us, by virtue of our baptism, our incorporation into Christ Jesus, called to be a shepherd? Yes, each of us a shepherd? Do you ever think of yourself and your responsibilities as a leader, a caretaker, a shepherd? What adult in one way of another is not a leader in the eyes of some?
Pray today for a deepened sense of an awareness of service for others ... to which you have been called ... again, by your baptism, and by the many times that you have received the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ in communion. This awareness of our own roles as shepherds may well be one of the realities you may find entrusted to you on your personal spiritual journey in 2008. You are a shepherd if you are a Bishop or priest. However, the flock of shepherd is more: parent, teacher, friend ... anyone called by God to lead others.
