Here are some of the main themes in the readings on this 16th Sunday of the Year.

1st Reading – Jeremiah 23:1-6

• Woe to the shepherds that mislead and scatter the flock.
• God will appoint shepherds who will protect the flock, and none shall be missing.

Psalm – 23:1-6

• “The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.”
• God guides, protects and leads us to the Lord’s house, our final dwelling.

2nd Reading – Ephesians 2:13-18

• Christ is our lasting peace, reconciling us to God through the Cross.
• We are no longer far off, but have now drawn near through the blood of Christ.

Gospel – Mark 6:30-34

• Having reported all that they have done, Christ invites the apostles to come away and rest.
• Crowds follow Jesus, and he takes pity on them…for they were like sheep without a shepherd.

Mass Readings – 16th Sunday of the Year

***************