WELCOME TO THIS WEEK'S FLOCKNOTE
In this Sunday’s readings, we are invited to reflect on belonging, perseverance, and the unshakable promise of God’s care.
In Acts 13:14, 43–52, Paul and Barnabas boldly preach the Gospel, facing both enthusiasm and opposition. When rejected by some, they do not falter but turn to the Gentiles, declaring that salvation is for all people. This passage reminds us that rejection is not failure; it can be a doorway to broader purpose. God’s message will not be silenced, and we are called to share it boldly, trusting that His Word always finds fertile ground.
In John 10:27–30, Jesus offers some of the most reassuring words in all of Scripture: “My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand.”
In our everyday lives, we’re bombarded by voices, notifications, news, opinions, demands. Amid all this noise, Jesus reminds us that there is one voice that truly matters: His. Like a familiar melody that cuts through chaos, the voice of the Good Shepherd calls us by name. Not because we’ve earned it, but because we belong to Him.
Think of how we respond to a loved one’s voice in a crowd. You could be in a noisy room, but when your parent, child, or best friend calls your name, you instantly turn. That’s how Jesus describes His relationship with us, intimate, personal, attentive.
Following Jesus isn’t about having everything figured out. It’s about recognizing His voice in the middle of our busyness, at work, in traffic, during school drop-off, or even while folding laundry. He speaks through Scripture, through prayer, through the kindness of others, or even in the quiet tug on our heart when we know we’re being nudged in the right direction.
And perhaps the most comforting part of this passage: “No one can snatch them out of my hand.” In a world where we can lose our grip on almost anything, peace, control, direction, Jesus never loses His grip on us. Even when we stray or struggle, we are held securely.
When life feels uncertain, remember this: You are known, you are heard, and you are safe in God’s hand. That promise is not based on your performance, but on His unshakable love. So today, amid your tasks and routines, pause and listen. The Shepherd is calling. Not loudly, not with pressure, but with love. And His voice always leads to peace.
Your Priest,
Father Charles
Please do not hesitate to contact me, Father Charles (frenyinnia@yahoo.com) (613-328-8331), Father Anthony (dimtony3482@gmail.com) (613-200-5357) or the parish office (stjohn.perth@archkingston.ca ) (613-267-1043), if we can be of any assistance to you in any way. We are very glad to respond to a request for prayers, the Sacrament of Reconciliation/Confession, Sick Calls and/or Conversation.
CCCB Announcement – Election of Pope Leo XIV: Click Here
Let us pray for the Pope!
Lord, source of eternal life and truth, give to yourshepherd a spirit of courage and right judgment, a spirit of knowledge and love. By governing with fidelity those entrusted to his care, may he, as successor to the Apostle Peter and vicar of Christ, build your Church into a sacrament of unity, love, and peace for all the world. Amen.
Remember to pray the Rosary daily throughout the month of May
“The Blessed Virgin Mary offered the disciples her prayers, motherly care, and witness. She continues to offer us hermotherly love and intercession. During this month of May, let us rediscover her maternal role in each of our lives. Let
us offer our spiritual mother our sincere prayers, that just as she aided the first Apostles with her prayers, she may also guide and intercede for us in our journey of faith. Let us learn from her how to love and trust God completely
and how to be faithful witnesses of the risen Lord.” - thecatholicstand.com
THIS WEEK: (See Upcoming Events for more details)
REMINDER: Please do not wear any Fragrance to church, we have parishioners who are highly allergic.
Foy Hall Garage Sale: this weekend, May 9th - 11th, Fri., Sat., & Sun., 91 Princess St. in Lanark Village, 10am to 2:30pm.
Community Dinner: Saturday, May 10th, 4:30-5:30pm, or until they run out of food. St. James Anglican Church, 54 Beckwith St. East, Perth. Goodwill offering appreciated.
2025-2026 SJ Parish Pastoral Council Elections: Your vote matters, please fill out a Nomination form – found in your pews & in the Narthex from May 10th – 18th.
This is the final weekend for Saturday 5pm Masses at Sacred Heart Church until after Thanksgiving.
St. Vincent de Paul, in DeWitts Corners, will be opened and will celebrate its first mass on Saturday, May 17th at 5pm.
NOTICE: UPCOMING ANNUAL PRIESTS RETREAT
Fr. Charles & Fr. Anthony will be away May 19th – 23rd on their annual Priests Retreat.