Shepherds

So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.
1 Peter 5:1–4
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Shepherds
            The Holy Spirit calls and guides men into the office of the holy ministry to serve God’s people. Your pastor is given the immense privilege and responsibility of shepherding your congregation. These words inspired by the Holy Spirit and written by St. Peter are so inspiring and beautiful that they are used in the rite of installation and ordination of pastors. And know that your pastor takes these words seriously. They are called to be shepherds, which is to say they are to feed, protect, and guide the flock Christ has entrusted to them. They are to preach God’s Law and Gospel in season and out, rightly administering the Sacraments, all to the glory of God. And when your pastor does these things, you are being served. God is using them, not because they are better or less sinful than others, but because just like you they are made new through the life, death, and resurrection of Christ Jesus.