A Shepherd In The Field

What can the faith of a farmer teach the Church today? Bishop Gutiérrez shares an inspiring vision rooted in the example of San Isidro, the patron saint of farmers. Learn how prayer, hard work, and trust in God can bring an abundant harvest to the Diocese of Pennsylvania.

“For the first five years, our field was marked by hard work, preparation, healing, building trust, transparency, and faith. Then we were thrown into a field none of us wanted or expected. We adapted, adjusted, and accomplished things that no one thought possible. … In late summer, I will lay out the tools and seeds for the new field we must prepare and sow together".

And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness for forty days, tempted by Satan, and he was with the wild beasts, and the angels waited on him.   Mark 1:12–13 As Jesus stood at the edge of the wilderness, he saw an expanse of desolation—the wind, heat, obstacles, danger, and no definable path or exit. It would be natural for fear, anxiety, uncertainty, and despair to envelop every moment. He experienced everything we would, but Jesus was without sin.   Recall the instances when, before us, there is a bleak and barren expanse. We begin to doubt, lose hope, and feel isolated and lost. Many feel lost in the wilderness right now. 1 Corinthians reminds us that we may not understand God's plan, but we are led to have the mind of Christ. This is our hope as we enter the holy season of Lent. Jesus stepped forward with faith. Because he had unity with the Spirit, knowing God was with him with perfect love.   While the wilderness is dau...