The Vine and the Branches

I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine-grower. He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit. You have already been cleansed by the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing. Whoever does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples

(John 15:5)

Fifth Sunday of Easter

Today’s Gospel text is part of Jesus’ “farewell discourse” during his Last Supper with his disciples, as found in the Gospel of John chapters 13–17. Jesus explains to his apostles how they and their disciples can carry on when he is no longer bodily or physically present. Jesus teaches the disciples through the parable of the vine and branches, that they are to unite their will to the life-giving Spirit of God who will be send to them, will be present and active within and among his disciples and their followers. Once united with the Spirit of God, they will produce the fruits of the Spirit for the good of the world.

Pope Francis has appointed Mgr James Curry as an Auxiliary Bishop for the Diocese of Westminster. Since 2008 he has served as Parish Priest of Our Lady of Victories in Kensington. As Cardinal Nichols says:

“Please keep Bishop-elect Curry in your prayers. Appointment as a bishop is a call to service in a new and demanding way. Let us accompany him with our prayers as he prepares for his Episcopal Ordination”