My Good Friends,
As you read this reflection, the Church may have already elected the successor of Pope Francis. In the event there is no new Bishop of Rome at this point in time, I offer my humble thoughts…
As the Catholic Church elects a new pope, this moment coincides with Good Shepherd Sunday, offering an opportunity to reflect on the qualities desired in a spiritual leader. Good Shepherd Sunday, observed on the Fourth Sunday of Easter, emphasizes Jesus as the shepherd who knows, guides, and lays down his life for his sheep. This image serves as a model for the papacy, highlighting the need for a pope who embodies Christ’s pastoral care, humility, and dedication to the flock.
The conclave, which began on May 7, brings together cardinals under the age of 80 in a process steeped in prayer and tradition. Guided by the apostolic constitution, the election requires a two-thirds majority and all voting is conducted in the Sistine Chapel, emphasizing the spiritual gravity of choosing the next Vicar of Christ.
In light of Good Shepherd Sunday, the Church seeks a pope we pray who will listen attentively to the voice of Christ and the needs of the faithful, lead with compassion, mirroring Jesus’ care for each individual, and serve selflessly, prioritizing the well-being of the global Church over personal interests.
The Church contemplates Christ as the true and eternal Shepherd, the one who knows His sheep, speaks to them, and lays down His life for them. In this image, we are reminded of what it means to lead—not with power, but with sacrificial love, humility, and deep care for the flock.
When the Church is called to elect a new pope, it is not merely choosing a global figurehead or administrator—it is discerning a shepherd in the image of Christ. The Holy Father is not just a leader of a billion Catholics; he is a shepherd entrusted with the care of souls. Like Christ, he must listen to the voice of the Father, know the needs of the flock, and guide them with courage and compassion.
A Shepherd Who Listens – Just as Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice,” so too must the pope be someone who first hears the voice of the Good Shepherd. He must be a man of prayer and discernment, rooted in Christ, listening not only to the Spirit but also to the joys and wounds of the Church.
A Shepherd Who Knows His Flock – Jesus knows His sheep personally. The new pope must be someone with pastoral sensitivity—able to walk with the poor, the suffering, the disillusioned, and the hopeful. He must know the real lives of the people of God, not from afar, but through humble and sincere connection.
A Shepherd Who Lays Down His Life – Leadership in the Church is always marked by the cross. The role of pope is not a privilege but a burden borne in love. Like Jesus, the Holy Father must be ready to suffer for the truth, to protect the vulnerable, and to stand firm in faith—even when it is costly.
The process of electing a new pope is not merely political or organizational—it is spiritual. We believe the Holy Spirit is at work, guiding the Church to choose not just a skilled leader, but a true shepherd in the likeness of Christ.
As we reflect on Good Shepherd Sunday, we are reminded to pray fervently for all our Church leaders, especially when the Chair of Peter is empty or newly filled. We pray that the one chosen may be faithful in doctrine, courageous in mission, tender in mercy, and rooted in Christ the Good Shepherd.
Ultimately, we want a pope who loves the Lord, regardless of how many times Jesus may ask, along with the courage in being attentive to feeding the lambs, tending the sheep, and feeding the sheep. May our new pope, like Christ, be a shepherd who knows, feeds, and loves his flock with unwavering fidelity.
Peace and all good,
Fr. Zack
