“Tend my sheep.” John 21:16
With these words which Jesus uses to address Peter in the Gospel, we’re reminded of what we celebrate next week –Good Shepherd Sunday, a time to reflect on those who are called to shepherd God’s flock, and we will reflect more deeply on this next week. This week however, we welcome our new Parochial Vicar who help “tend to our flock.” He’s a welcome addition to our community and filled with God’s grace as he begins ministering in our community. I’ve asked him to share some brief words as he begins his time here with us. Now, in his words …
Dear People of God – It is with deep joy and pastoral zeal that I, Fr. Boris Sife Lemfon, join this vibrant community and its affiliated schools. Originally from the Archdiocese of Bamenda in Cameroon Central West of Africa, I have served as a Roman Catholic priest for 12th years, with a focus on pastoral care, especially ministering to all of God’s people in all situations. Born on April 8th 1985, I was ordained April 3rd 2013. I recently graduated from Boston College, earning a Master in Leadership and Administration, with a focus on Organizational Leadership—a formation that will find joyful expression in this flourishing community of faith and learning. My priesthood has been marked by a desire to walk with God’s people in their joys and struggles, and my heart is open to discovering, serving, and loving this community in all its beauty and diversity.
As I begin this journey with you, I carry three sincere hopes and expectations, First, I would like to draw students, families, and parishioners into deeper communion with Christ—by being present, listening, and sharing in their journeys of faith. Secondly, I would like to foster healing in our brokenness, pointing us always to the Cross as the place where our wounds find redemption. Finally, I would like to serve as a joyful and trustworthy companion—one who brings Christ’s mercy, wisdom, and laughter to both the sanctuary and the schoolyard. I am grateful to walk this path with you. Let us continue to be a community where grace abounds, and Christ is encountered daily. Accept me in my weakness and brokenness as we journey together.
In Christ
Fr Boris Sife Lemfon
Let us also keep in our prayers, those who will be receiving their First Communion next weekend as they take this beautiful step closer to Jesus Christ by receiving him in his Most Precious Body and Blood.