Fr Paul reads from John’s Gospel (15: 1-8) in which Jesus says ‘I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever remains in me, with me in them, bears fruit in plenty; for cut off from me you can do nothing’.The vine was a long and loved symbol of Israel. It has been used right throughout the scriptures and, now, it is used in this Last Supper discourse as they are on their way to Gethsemane.In this context, Fr Paul notes, it acquires a new dimension – the pain of pruning.  However, the suffering of Jesus is not the main point; but it is the disciples, they must be prepared for the pain of pruning.We can all go different ways in life; however, we must stay attached to the vine; to Christ, himself, who gives us life.For our reflection today, Fr Paul asks, ‘How attached to Christ am I, at this time in my life?’