Holy Mass & Rosary for the Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis – April 30, 2025
Watch “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | April 30, 2025 |
Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | April 30, 2025 |
Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” |
FEAST OF OUR LADY OF AFRICA AND THE MEMORIAL OF SAINT PIUS V, POPE; SAINT MARIE OF THE INCARNATION AND SAINT JOSEPH BENEDICT COTTOLENGO, FOUNDER: APRIL 30TH: As we continue to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, today, we celebrate the Feast of our Lady of Africa and the Memorial of Saint Pius, Pope; Saint Marie of the Incarnation and Saint Joseph Benedict Cottolengo, Founder. During this Easter season, through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, Our Lady of Africa and all the Saints on this feast day, we humbly pray for justice, peace, love and unity in our families and our world. We pray for the safety and well-being of us all and our families, for peace, love and unity in our families, our marriages and our divided and conflicted world. We pray for the poor and needy. Every life is a gift. And we continue to pray for the sick, we particularly pray for those suffering from cancers and those who are terminally ill and dying. May God in His infinite grace and mercy grant them His divine healing and intervention. We pray for God’s deliverance from impossible causes or situations. We pray for the souls in Purgatory and the repose of the gentle souls of our beloved family members who recently passed away and the souls of all the faithful departed, may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom. For all widows and widowers. And we continue to pray for our Holy Father, Pope Francis, the Bishops, the Clergy and all those who preach the Gospel. For vocations to the priesthood and religious life, for the Church, for persecuted christians, for all the innocent who suffer violence due to political or religious unrest, for the conversion of sinners and Christians all over the world. Amen🙏
OUR LADY OF AFRICA: Extract from Shrines of Our Lady: “The first Bishop of Algiers, after the conquest of the country by the French in the beginning of the 19th century, was without a church, funds or residence and was surrounded by Muslems whose hostility was evident and whose friendship had to be won. The Bishop returned to Lyon and related his distress at the Convent of the Religious of the Sacred Heart; his appeal was spread and he did not have long to wait before he was offered, by the Sodality of Our Lady, a bronze statue of the Immaculate Conception. It was the express desire of the donors that this dark-hued statue should be considered the Protectress of the Mohammedans and the Negroes. Though Our Lady of Africa’s abode is a Catholic church, she is venerated by Mohammedan men and women as much as she is by Christians. Every day, one can see kneeling Mohammedans who have come to ask Lala Meriem, as they call the Blessed Virgin, for her special favors.”
Although Islamized and shaken by bloody violence, Algeria, an ancient Christian and Marian land, a land of martyrs’ is still entrusted to Our Lady of Africa. Muslims too respect the Blessed Virgin Miriam, the Holy Mother of Jesus. And along with Christians still today many Muslims come to pray and lay flowers in front of the statue of the Blessed Virgin in this great Basilica dedicated to Our Lady of Africa where underneath the main altar lies the inscription: “Our Lady of Africa pray for us and for all Muslims”. Our Lady of Africa is the Patron Saint of Africa.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed are thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen🙏
PRAYER: Our Lady of Africa, Queen of Peace, obtain the gift of peace for all nations torn apart by hatred, resentment and racism. May your Son’s law of Love win over and unite all hearts, so that together we may sing the Glory of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit…Amen.🙏
Mary, Our Mother of Africa, hear the drumbeat of our prayers. May Your Son Jesus continue to bring us joy, receive our tensions, and forgive us our sins. Help us to walk in His light. Help us to help others do the same. And bring us to life everlasting with the Holy Saints and Angels… Amen🙏
SAINT PIUS V, POPE: St. Pius V, was Pope and ruler of the Papal State from January 8,1566 to his death on May 1, 1572. He was the Father of a universal family, the Catholic Church. He protected the family’s unity with all his considerable skills and virtues, and left a highly united, disciplined Church as his legacy. He was one of the foremost leaders of the Catholic Reformation. He is chiefly notable for his role in the Council of Trent, the Counter-Reformation, and the standardization of the Roman Rite within the Latin Church.
Pope St. Pius V (1504–1572) was born as Antonio Ghislieri on January 17, 1504, Bosco Marengo, Italy to a poor yet noble family in Bosco, Italy. He worked as a shepherd until the age of 14, after which he joined the Dominican Order and was ordained a priest at the age of 24. He taught theology and philosophy, spent long hours in prayer, and fasted regularly. Due to his great intelligence and reputation for holiness he rose to a number of prominent positions in the Church, including Inquisitor and Bishop. In 1566 he was elected Pope and took the name Pope Pius V. As Supreme Pontiff he was a great reformer and worked to implement the decisions of the Council of Trent following the Protestant revolt. He reformed the clergy, supported the foreign missions, published a catechism, revised the breviary and missal, and named St. Thomas Aquinas a Doctor of the Church. The Holy League famously defeated the Ottomans at the Battle of Lepanto in 1571. In his alliance with Venice and Spain, and with the aid of a rosary crusade among the faithful, he defeated the Ottoman Turks in the famous and decisive Battle of Lepanto in the Mediterranean sea on October 7, 1571. This miraculous victory saved Europe from being ruled by the Ottoman Empire. Pope Pius V attributed the victory to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Holy Father afterwards instituted the feast of Our Lady of Victory (now Our Lady of the Rosary) in thanksgiving to Our Lady for leading the Christian forces to victory, and to encourage a greater devotion to the Holy Rosary throughout the universal Church. For this he is known as the “Pope of the Rosary.” Pope Pius V died on May 1, 1572, Rome, Italy. He was beatified by Pope Clement on May 1, 1672, and Pope Clement XI canonized him on May 22, 1712. He’s the Patron Saint of Valletta Malta, Bosco Marengo, Italy, Pietrelcina, Italy, Roccaforte Mondovi, Diocese of Alessandria.
Some of the famous teachings and quotes of Pope Pius V which still persist and are preserved include:
PRAYER: Saint Pius V, your dedication to the truth showed itself in your pristine holiness, unity of life, and defense of doctrine. From your home in heaven, assist all theologians and leaders of the Church to be as concerned as you were for the unity of God’s family on earth.🙏
God, You providently raised up St. Pius in Your Church for the defense of the Faith and for more suitable Divine worship. Through his intercession, help us to participate in Your mysteries with a livelier Faith and a more fruitful love… Amen🙏
SAINT MARIE OF THE INCARNATION, RELIGIOUS: St. Marie (October 28, 1599 – April 30, 1672) was the first woman missionary to North America. She was an Ursuline nun of the French order. As part of a group of nuns sent to New France to establish the Ursuline Order, Marie was crucial in the spread of Catholicism in New France. She wrote extensively about pioneer life in what later became Quebec, Canada. Moreover, she has been credited with founding the first girls’ school in the New World. Hundreds of her French letters were published in Europe during her life and for centuries later. St. Marie of the Incarnation was born Marie Guyart in Tours, France, on October 28,1599, the fourth child of a family of eight children. She was attracted to liturgy and prayer and recounted that she had a mystical experience when she was seven. At age fourteen she asked her parents to let her join the Benedictine nuns of Beaumont Abbey but they did not allow her to do so. Instead they had her marry Claude Martin, a master silk worker, when she was eighteen. Two years later they had a son whom they names Claude, but the husband died soon after leaving Marie a widow. She lived with her parents for a year and then went to live with her sister and bother-in-law, Paul Buisson to help them run their busy household. She continued to want to follow a religious life, but could not do so until she raised her young son, Claude. When he was 12 she left him in the care of her sister and entered the Ursuline convent in Tours in 1631. As a nun she had a religious vision which reinforced her spiritual devotion.
St. Marie was inspired by the life of the Spanish mystic Teresa of Avila and also read some early parts of the Jesuit Relations which were circulating in France. She began a correspondence with the Jesuits in New France and found that they were supportive of having religious women coming to help them with the missions and the Christianization of Huron women. Later she wrote about having a mystical experience about going to the missions in Canada. She could not get support or funding from her religious superiors or her family to make a trip to the New World. In 1639 Marie met Madeline de la Peltrie, a devout aristocratic woman who planned to use her inheritance to fund the voyage to New France and the establishment of a convent and school there. Later that year the two women along with two other Ursuline nuns, Marie de St. Joseph, Cecile de Sainte Croix, a lay helper, three nursing sister and two Jesuit fathers sailed for the colony of Quebec. In 1642 the group of women moved from temporary shelter in lower town of Quebec to a permanent stone building in the upper part of town and established the first school in North America. Their work with the Indigenous people had many challenges not only because of the differences between the European methods and the customs of the local Native groups, but also because of smallpox outbreaks, and the battles between the French, the Huron and the Iroquois. The nuns quickly learn the different Indigenous languages (letter 56). After working in New France for 33 years Marie died of liver disease on April 30, 1672 at age 72.
In later centuries the Ursuline Monastery grew into a large complex of buildings and was designated a National Historic Site by the Government of Canada. The hundreds of letters that she wrote back to France and which were later published make her the most important eyewitnesses in the early history of Quebec and Canada. There are several editions of her letters translated into English. Due to her work, the Catholic Church declared her a saint, and the Anglican Church of Canada celebrates her with a feast day. She was Beatified on June 22, 1980, Vatican City, by Pope John Paul II and Canonized on April 3, 2014, Apostolic Palace, Vatican City by Pope Francis.
PRAYER: O God, who raised up blessed Marie of the Incarnation in your Church to show others the way of salvation, grant us, by her example, so to follow Christ the master, that we may come with our neighbor into your presence. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever… Amen🙏
SAINT JOSEPH BENEDICT COTTOLENGO, FOUNDER: Saint Joseph Benedict Cottolengo or Giuseppe Benedetto Cottolengo (May 3, 1786 – April 30, 1842) was the founder of the Little House of Divine Providence. He was born on May 3, 1786 at Bra in Piedmont, Italy. As a secular priest in Turin, he showed a special concern for the sick poor, receiving them into a small house. This Little House of Divine Providence, the Piccola Casa, as he called it, was the beginning of an entire city of more than 7,000 poor persons, orphans, sick and lame, retarded, penitents, served by several religious Orders. These were distinguished by their names and their religious habits, each group being dedicated to a specific work they were assigned to do. And of this Piccola Casa, as it is still called, one can say what Saint Gregory Nazienzen said in his funeral eulogy of his friend Saint Basil’s large hospital: Go a little way outside the city and se, in this new city storehouses of piety, the common treasure of the owners, where a surplus of wealth has been laid up, where sickness is borne with patience, misfortune is considered happiness, and compassion is efficaciously practiced.
For this ever more pressing work, the Saint founded fourteen religious communities which today are still very widespread, especially in Italy. Among them were some which were purely contemplative; the life of prayer its members led was destined to draw down upon the others the blessing of heaven, thus completing by a spiritual work of mercy the corporal works exercised there. These religious prayed in particular for those who have the greatest need of assistance, the dying and the deceased. The Saint trusted totally in the infinite kindness of God, and as one of his friends said, he had more confidence in God than did the entire city of Turin. When he was asked about the source of his revenues, he answered, Providence sends me everything.
Confidence in God did not, however, cause him to cross his arms and observe. He slept only a few hours, often on a chair or bench, and then returned to his daily labor, work and prayer. But Saint Joseph Benedict was exhausting his strength. In 1842, the doctors decided that he should go to visit his brother in Chieri. When he entered the carriage, one of the Sisters cried out in tears: Father, you are sick; what will become of us? Be at peace, he answered. When I am in heaven, where one can do everything, I will help you more than now I do. I will hold to the cloak of the Mother of God and keep my eyes fixed on you. Do not forget what I, a poor old man, say to you today! A few days later, on April 30, 1842, death came. The final word of this great Saint was that of the Psalm: I rejoiced when it was said unto me, Let us go unto the House of the Lord! Saint Joseph Benedict was canonized by Pope Pius XI, March 19, 1934.
Saint Joseph Benedict Cottolengo, Founder ~ Pray for us🙏
TUESDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER
SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: FEAST DAY ~ APRIL 29, 2025
MEMORIAL OF SAINT CATHERINE OF SIENA, VIRGIN AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH; SAINT HUGH OF CLUNY, ABBOT AND SAINT PETER OF VERONA, PRIEST AND MARTYR | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary for the Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis | EWTN | April 27, 2025 | “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-daily-mass-56/
Watch “FOURTH NOVENDIAL MASS MASS FOR POPE FRANCIS | PRESIDED OVER BY CARDINAL MAURO GAMBETTI | LIVE FROM THE VATICAN | APRIL 29, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/funeral-mass-of-pope-francis/
Novemdiales (Nine Days of Mourning) Masses Schedule for Pope Francis (26 April 2025 – 4 May 2025)
Learn more about the Novendiales (Nine days of mourning) in the Papal Interregnum article below:
PAPAL INTERREGNUM (VACANCY OF THE APOSTOLIC SEE) | EWTN | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/papal-interregnum/
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Daily Reflections with Philomena | Prayer for the Soul of Pope Francis | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/precious-in-the-sight-of-the-lord-is-the-death-of-his-saints-psalm-11615/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family. Happy Tuesday of the Second Week of Easter!
We continue to celebrate and rejoice in the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. May God’s grace and mercy be with us all during this Easter season and always 🙏🏽
PRAYER FOR THE SOUL OF POPE FRANCIS AND SUCESS OF THE CONCLAVE
With the passing of Pope Francis, let us continue to pray for the eternal repose of his soul and for the College of Cardinals as they embark on their sacred duty to elect Pope Francis’ successor:
Heavenly Father, You entrusted the care of Your Church on earth to Pope Francis, and now You have called him to Yourself. We entrust his soul to Your boundless mercy. For his lifelong service, we thank You. For his care for the poor and marginalized, we thank You. For his witness to simplicity, we thank You. In Your mercy, cleanse him of all sin. Purify him and draw him into the light of Your presence. Grant him the vision of Your Eternal Essence, into which we all long to be drawn. Protect Your Church in this time of transition. Guide the Cardinals in their sacred duty. Grant them Wisdom and Courage, Hope and Charity, and the Faith they need to discern Your Holy Will.
Father Most Holy, our God and King, Creator of all that was, is, and is to come – You alone know the heart of the one You have chosen as the successor to Pope Francis. Reveal Your will to the College of Cardinals. Open their hearts to Your inspirations. Open our hearts to receive, with faith and obedience, the one whom You will raise up to sit on the Chair of Saint Peter. May he be a man of deepest compassion, a man of profound faith and hope, a man whose charity shines forth, permeating the darkness of this world with the light of Christ. You are God Most High, the God of the living and the dead, the Great I AM, the Alpha and the Omega, Eternal Being and Source of all that is. May Your holy will be done, now and forever. Amen. Alleluia.
Merciful and loving God, We entrust to You our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis. May he rest in the light of Your presence, where suffering and sorrow are no more, and every tear is wiped away. Comfort all who mourn his passing and raise up shepherds who will continue to guide Your Church in humility and love.
Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May his gentle soul and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽
On this special feast day, as we continue to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, particularly Saint Joseph, Patron of the sick and dying, we pray for the sick and dying and all those who mourn the loss of their loved ones. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, especially for our Holy Father, POPE FRANCIS, all those who died today, and all the faithful departed may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their gentle souls and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯
“Blessed are those who have died in the Lord; let them rest from their labors for their good deeds go with them.” ~ Rev 14:13
PRAYER FOR THE DEAD : In your hands, O Lord, we humbly entrust our brothers and sisters. In this life, you embraced them with your tender love; deliver them now from every evil, and bid them eternal rest. The old order has passed away: welcome them into paradise, where there will be no sorrow, no weeping or pain, but fullness of peace and joy with your Son and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen 🙏🏽
Today, as we continue to rejoice in the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, we joyfully celebrate the Memorial of Saint Catherine of Siena (Patroness of Europe, Nurses, and Fire Prevention), Saint Hugh of Cluny (Patron of Cluny Abbey and Monastic Reform), and Saint Peter of Verona (Patron of Inquisitors and Against Hatred). Through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother Mary and these holy saints, we humbly pray for healing, peace, and conversion throughout the world. 🙏🏽
DAILY REFLECTIONS WITH PHILOMENA | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Daily Saints, Holy Mass, Holy Rosary, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Scripture Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/reflections/
Watch “HOLY MASS ON THE JUBILEE OF THE SICK AND HEALTHCARE WORKERS | Presided by H.E. Most Rev. Rino Fisichella | Live from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican | April 6, 2025” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/06/holy-mass-on-the-jubilee-of-the-sick-and-healthcare-workers/
WORLD PRAYERS FOR POPE FRANCIS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/02/26/world-prayers-for-pope-francis/
Honoring a Legacy of Service: The 10th Memorial Anniversary of Late Noble (Sir) Gabriel Louis Ihieje Opiepe (KSJI) | https://gliopiepehe.org/2025/04/12/honoring-a-legacy-of-service-the-10th-memorial-anniversary-of-late-noble-sir-gabriel-louis-ihieje-opiepe-ksji/
THE LITURGICAL YEAR IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/12/03/the-liturgical-year-in-the-catholic-church/
THE HOLY FATHER, POPE FRANCIS’ MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL: For the use of the new technologies ~ Let us pray that the use of the new technologies will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times.
PRAYER OF THE MONTH ~ POPE FRANCIS: Lord, Good Father, as I look at the world and see men and women working in it and beautifying it, a great “Thank You!” springs from my heart. The action of Your Spirit among us encourages us to grow in the progress of science and technology in the service of human dignity for integral and inclusive human development. Because we know You desire the good of all, fro5m the heart of Your Church, Your Son calls us to ensure that technology does not replace “person-to-person” contact, that the virtual does not replace the real, and that social networks do not replace social settings. Help us develop the ability to live wisely, to think deeply, to love generously, without losing heart, promoting scientific and technological growth that increasingly aligns with human development in responsibility, values, and awareness.
Amen 🙏🏽
(https://popesprayerusa.net/popes-intentions/)
Pray “Holy Rosary for Peace with Pope Francis” | “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song”| “Holy Rosary ALL 20 Mysteries | Memorare Chaplet | Prayer in Difficult Times (Powerful Prayer) | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/30/holy-rosary-for-peace-with-pope-francis/
Please find below links to the websites for Daily Reflections, Foundation and interesting topics and articles about our Catholic faith and doctrines | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/30/daily-reflections-and-prayer-links/
PRAYER FOR PEACE ~ POPE FRANCIS:
Lord God of peace, hear our prayer!
A PRAYER FOR PEACE : Lord Jesus Christ, You are the true King of peace. In You alone is found freedom. Please free our world from conflict. Bring unity to troubled nations. Let Your glorious peace reign in every heart. Dispel all darkness and evil. Protect the dignity of every human life. Replace hatred with Your love. Give wisdom to world leaders. Free them from selfish ambition. Eliminate all violence and war. Glorious Virgin Mary, Saint Michael the Archangel, Every Angel and Saint: Please pray for peace. Pray for unity amongst nations. Pray for unity amongst all people. Pray for the most vulnerable. Pray for those suffering. Pray for the fearful. Pray for those most in need. Pray for us all. Jesus, Son of the Living God, have mercy on us. Jesus, hear our prayers. Jesus, I trust in You! Amen 🙏🏽
Prayers for Peace | https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/prayers-for-peace/
SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:
Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Tuesday of the Second Week of Easter | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading
Today’s Bible Readings: Memorial of Saint Catherine of Siena, Virgin and Doctor of the Church | Tuesday of the Second Week of Easter | April 29, 2025
Reading 1: Acts 4:32–37
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 93:1ab, 1cd–2, 5
Gospel: John 3:7b–15
Gospel Reading ~ John 3:7b-15
“No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man”
“Jesus said to Nicodemus: “‘You must be born from above.’ The wind blows where it wills, and you can hear the sound it makes, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes; so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Nicodemus answered and said to Him, ‘How can this happen?” Jesus answered and said to him, “You are the teacher of Israel and you do not understand this? Amen, amen, I say to you, we speak of what we know and we testify to what we have seen, but you people do not accept our testimony. If I tell you about earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you about heavenly things? No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in Him may have eternal life.”
In today’s Gospel reading, Nicodemus the Pharisee came to meet Jesus at night time to discussed about many things, including the identity of the Lord and what He has come into this world for. Jesus speaks about the mysterious reality of the Spirit, the Holy Spirit, with reference to the everyday reality of the wind. There is a mysterious quality to the wind. As Jesus says, ‘it blows where it pleases’. Nowadays we can harness the wind to generate electricity, but there is so much about the wind which is beyond our control and understanding. In the words of the Gospel reading, we certainly cannot control where it comes from or where it goes to. We also cannot control the strength of the wind. If the wind is beyond our control and understanding, this is true to an even greater extent of the Spirit of God, the Holy Spirit. We cannot manage the Holy Spirit. If we are not masters of the wind, we are even less masters of the Spirit. Yet, whereas the wind is an impersonal force, the Spirit is a personal force. We speak of the Spirit as the third person of the Trinity. The Spirit is the Spirit of God’s personal love for the world. Whereas the wind can be destructive, the Spirit is always life-giving. In our Gospel reading, we find Nicodemus struggling to understand when Jesus tells him that he must be born from above, born of the Spirit. In response, Nicodemus asks ‘How can that be possible?’ Nicodemus is an example of someone who struggled to come to faith; he struggle to become a disciple of Jesus. He was drawn to Jesus but he could not quite grasp what Jesus was asking of him, not initially at least. Yet, Nicodemus did not give up on Jesus and the last we see of him in John’s Gospel is at Golgotha where, after the death of Jesus, he and Joseph of Arimathea ensure that Jesus has a dignified burial. It appears that in the course of Jesus’ public ministry Nicodemus gradually grew in his relationship with Jesus; he allowed himself to be drawn to Jesus more fully. The journey of faith is not always straightforward. Like Nicodemus we can find ourselves at an impasse. His question, ‘How can that be possible?’ becomes our question. Yet, all we can do is stay with our questions and be faithful to our search. The Lord will do the rest. If we are open and honest, the Lord will draw us to Himself in time, in His time and in ours. Our calling is to surrender to the Lord, to the movement of the Spirit in our lives, to allow the Spirit to shape and mould us. When that happens, our lives will give expression to God’s personal love for the world.
Reflecting on the Gospel, Jesus continues His conversation with Nicodemus, revealing the mystery of salvation through His coming crucifixion. Just as Moses lifted the bronze serpent in the wilderness to bring healing to the Israelites, Jesus, too, must be lifted up on the Cross so that all who believe in Him may be saved. This lifting up is not only a symbol of suffering but of glory, as it becomes the very means through which eternal life is offered to all humanity. Nicodemus, though a teacher in Israel, struggles to grasp this divine wisdom, reminding us that faith transcends intellectual understanding. Jesus gently challenges him and us to look beyond the visible and embrace the truth that salvation comes through believing in the One sent from heaven. This passage is a call to gaze upon the crucified Christ with faith and trust. Just as the Israelites looked upon the bronze serpent and were healed, we are invited to look upon Jesus lifted high on the Cross and receive the healing and life that flow from His sacrifice. His death is not the end, but the gateway to eternal life. In moments of doubt or confusion, may we return to the Cross, the ultimate sign of God’s love and mercy. Let us open our hearts anew to this gift, asking for the grace to believe even when we do not fully understand, and to trust even when the path is hidden.
Our first reading today from the Acts of the Apostles details the life of the early Christian community, which members were filled with love and compassion for one another, as they shared their goods and properties, their blessings with those who have less with them so that none among them lived in want or in misery. In their way of life, those early Christians highlighted what it truly means to be followers and disciples of Christ, in their obedience to God’s will and adherence to His commandments and Law. They loved the Lord and placed Him at the centre of their community and their lives, and they also loved one another and cared for the needs of those around them, instead of selfishly seeking only to satisfy themselves. They are our role models and examples in how we should live our own lives in this world, and all of us should indeed make good use of the time and opportunities presented to us so that we may also live our lives worthily of the Lord.
Reflecting on our first reading, we see the early Christian community living in remarkable unity and generosity. They were “of one heart and mind,” sharing all things in common and caring for one another’s needs. This wasn’t forced communality it flowed from the deep transformation they had experienced through faith in the risen Christ. Empowered by the Spirit, they bore witness not only through words but through radical love and selflessness. The example of Barnabas, who sold his land and laid the money at the apostles’ feet, shows a concrete act of encouragement and trust in God’s providence. The result? A community where “there was no needy person among them.” This passage is both inspiring and challenging. It reminds us that Christian discipleship is not just about individual faith but about communal living shaped by charity and justice. It invites us to examine how we relate to our possessions, to the needs of others, and to the Church as a whole. Do we allow the resurrection of Christ to transform not only our hearts but also how we live and give? In a world marked by division and self-interest, we are called to embody the unity and generosity of the early Church, becoming true sons and daughters of encouragement.
Today’s responsorial psalm proclaims the majesty and sovereignty of the Lord. “The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.” This simple yet profound declaration centers us on God’s eternal reign. The psalm assures us that the Lord’s decrees are trustworthy, and His holiness endures forever. Even as the world shifts and troubles arise, God’s throne stands firm from of old. This is our source of peace: that no matter the uncertainty we face, our God reigns in splendor and strength. His house is holy, His word is true, and His presence is everlasting.
Are my eyes fixed on the Cross in times of doubt, seeking the healing and life Jesus promises? Am I living as part of a community of faith, willing to share my blessings and support others in need? Where is God inviting me to be more generous, more trusting, and more unified with those around me? Do I trust in the majesty and faithfulness of God even when things feel unstable? Today, let us draw strength from the witness of the early Church and the words of Christ to Nicodemus. Let us believe anew in the One who was lifted up for our salvation. Let us respond with open hands and hearts, ready to be renewed by His Spirit and to live as faithful members of His Kingdom.
As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, all of us are reminded of what it means for us to be Christians, that is as faithful disciples and followers of Our Lord and Saviour, living our lives in the path and ways that He has shown and revealed to us. The Lord Himself has revealed His teachings and truth, through His Church and His disciples and their successors, our bishops and priests, who have handed down to us what the Lord Himself has given to His Apostles and disciples. That is why each and every one of us are called to turn once again towards Him and His truth, distancing ourselves from sin and wickedness, and from all the things which have often separated us from the love of God, all the temptations and forces which have kept us from embracing God’s most generous love and compassion, all these while. Let us all therefore do our part as Christians, as we continue to carry on living our lives in this world, and let us be good role models and examples in all things so that through our works, actions and deeds, we may inspire many more people to come to believe in the Lord. Let us all strive to be the good disciples and followers of our Lord, doing our best to proclaim the truth of God, the glory of Our Lord and Saviour in our every actions and words. Let all of our lives, in in the smallest and simplest things, be the shining beacons of Christ’s Light and Hope, illuminating all those who are still living in the darkness, and are still lacking hope and strength. Let our actions and interactions with our fellow brothers and sisters in need help us to show them the path to the true hope and eternal joy in the Lord. May the Risen Lord continue to guide us and strengthen us in our journey of life, that we may resist the many temptations and pressures all around us. May the Lord be with us and may He empower each one of us to be prepared and ever ready to do His will, and may continue to inflame us with His Holy Spirit, to allow us to walk with faith in the Lord. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace and may the joy, love, courage, strength and the guidance of Our Risen Lord be with us all, and may He bless us in our every good works, actions and deeds, now and always, forevermore. Amen 🙏🏽
Come, Lord Jesus, lifted high on the Cross, draw me to Yourself. Let me never forget the price of my salvation and the gift of eternal life You offer. Fill me with Your Spirit, that I may live generously, love boldly, and believe deeply. Make me a sign of unity and encouragement in my community. Reign in my heart, O King of Majesty. Amen🙏🏽
SAINTS OF THE DAY: MEMORIAL OF SAINT CATHERINE OF SIENA, VIRGIN AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH; SAINT HUGH OF CLUNY, ABBOT AND SAINT PETER OF VERONA, PRIEST AND MARTYR ~ FEAST DAY: APRIL 29TH: Today, as we continue to rejoice in the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, we joyfully celebrate the Memorial of Saint Catherine of Siena (Patroness of Europe, Nurses, and Fire Prevention), Saint Hugh of Cluny (Patron of Cluny Abbey and Monastic Reform), and Saint Peter of Verona (Patron of Inquisitors and Against Hatred). Through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother Mary and these holy saints, we humbly pray for healing, peace, and conversion throughout the world.
We pray especially for all who are sick, particularly those battling cancer and terminal illnesses. May the Lord in His infinite mercy grant healing and comfort. We lift up our Holy Father, Pope Francis, the Bishops, priests, and all those consecrated to God’s service. We pray for persecuted Christians, the poor and needy, expectant mothers, midwives, and the conversion of sinners everywhere.
We remember families and marriages in need of healing and unity, asking for peace in our divided world. May God bring deliverance from impossible situations, hope to the hopeless, and consolation to those mourning the loss of loved ones. We also pray for the souls in Purgatory, the recently departed, all widows and widowers, and those suffering violence or unrest due to political or religious conflict. We continue to pray for more vocations to the priesthood and religious life. 🙏🏽
Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | April 29th | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Catherine of Siena, Saint Hugh of Cluny, and Saint Peter of Verona | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-april-29th/
SAINT CATHERINE OF SIENA (1347–1380): Virgin, Mystic, and Doctor of the Church. Saint Catherine was born in Siena, Italy, on March 25, 1347 coincidentally the Feast of the Annunciation and was the 24th of 25 children. Her twin sister died in infancy, and from a young age, Catherine displayed a unique spiritual depth. At just seven years old, she experienced her first mystical vision of Christ and pledged her virginity to Him.
A member of the Dominican Third Order, Catherine lived a hidden life of prayer, fasting, and penance until called to public service. Despite her illiteracy, she was guided by divine wisdom, and her theological insight amazed even learned scholars. Her spiritual masterpiece, The Dialogue, and her over 400 letters reflect her mystical experiences and passionate love for Christ and the Church.
Saint Catherine became a fearless voice in a time of Church crisis. She played a critical role in ending the Avignon Papacy, counseled Popes, rebuked corruption, and helped mediate peace in Italy. She received the stigmata in 1375, though it remained invisible during her lifetime at her request.
She died at age 33 in Rome, worn out by years of sacrifice and service. Canonized in 1461, she was later declared a Doctor of the Church in 1970—one of the first women to receive that honor. She is the co-patron of Italy and Europe.
“Be who God meant you to be, and you will set the world on fire.”
“All the way to heaven is heaven, because Jesus said, ‘I am the way.’”
PRAYER: Saint Catherine of Siena, courageous lover of Christ and His Church, pray for us. Inspire us to seek holiness with boldness, to love truth with courage, and to serve others with joy. Amen. 🙏🏽
SAINT HUGH OF CLUNY (1024–1109): Abbot and Reforming Leader. Saint Hugh of Cluny entered monastic life as a teenager after being deeply inspired by the sanctity of the monks of Cluny. He succeeded Saint Odilo as Abbot at the age of 25 and led the great Benedictine monastery of Cluny for over six decades. A reformer and spiritual father, he strengthened monastic discipline and built a powerful spiritual network that influenced Europe for generations.
Saint Hugh advised emperors, kings, and nine popes, and under his leadership, Cluny became a beacon of holiness. His charity was legendary he even built a hospital for lepers, where he personally served them. He was granted the right to wear pontifical insignia on feast days and founded numerous monasteries throughout Europe.
He died in 1109 and was canonized just 12 years later. His life reminds us of the power of humility, dedication, and prayer.
PRAYER: Saint Hugh of Cluny, model of monastic charity and reform, pray for us. May we imitate your zeal, your compassion for the poor, and your unwavering service to the Church. Amen.🙏🏽
SAINT PETER OF VERONA (1205–1252): Priest, Dominican Preacher, and Martyr. Saint Peter of Verona was born to Manichean parents in northern Italy but embraced the Catholic faith as a child. At 16, he joined the Dominicans, receiving the habit from Saint Dominic himself. A brilliant and passionate preacher, he combated heresy with both truth and mercy.
He was appointed Inquisitor in Lombardy, a dangerous role that ultimately led to his martyrdom. In 1252, while returning from Como to Milan, he was ambushed and murdered by assassins sent by the heretics he opposed. With his dying breath, he wrote the word Credo (I believe) in his own blood.
Canonized the following year by Pope Innocent IV, Saint Peter is one of the fastest canonizations in Church history. His life calls us to courageous fidelity to the Gospel, even unto death.
PRAYER: Saint Peter of Verona, faithful witness of Christ even in the face of death, pray for us. May we never waver in our profession of faith and may your courage inspire us to stand firm in truth and love. Amen 🙏🏽
Saint Catherine of Siena, Saint Hugh of Cluny, and Saint Peter of Verona ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF APRIL | MONTH OF HOLY EUCHARIST: April is dedicated to the Holy Eucharist, the greatest gift of Christ to His Church. In the Eucharist, Jesus is truly present Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity offering Himself as the Bread of Life. This month invites us to deepen our love and reverence for the Eucharist, especially as we approach Holy Week and Easter, celebrating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord. The Eucharist was instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper when He said, “Take and eat; this is My Body… Drink from it, all of you, for this is My Blood of the Covenant” (Matthew 26:26-28). In receiving the Eucharist, we are united with Christ and His Church. It is the source of our strength and the culmination of our salvation, as Christ Himself said in John 6:51, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.” As we journey through Lent, we are called to renew our reverence for the Eucharist. During Holy Week, we remember that Christ instituted this sacrament on Holy Thursday, offering us a way to remain in union with Him. Let us take this opportunity to attend Mass regularly, spend time in Eucharistic adoration, and reflect on the mystery of Christ’s presence in the Blessed Sacrament.
In this season of penance and reflection, may our devotion to the Eucharist strengthen our commitment to living as true disciples of Christ, leading us to the joy of Easter and the Resurrection.
O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Lord Jesus, You have given Yourself to us in the Eucharist. May we receive You with reverence and love, and let Your grace transform us always. Amen 🙏🏽
https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12540
PRAYER INTENTIONS: Today, through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Catherine of Siena, Saint Hugh of Cluny, and Saint Peter of Verona, we lift our prayers to the Risen Lord for truth, unity, and healing in the Church and the world. We pray for nurses, caregivers, and all healthcare workers, that they may be strengthened in compassion and protected in their service. We remember those suffering from hatred, injustice, or false accusations, and ask for the grace to be witnesses of truth in love. We pray for those burdened by sin or despair, that they may be drawn to the light of Christ’s mercy. We entrust to God all who are sick, especially those battling cancer and terminal illnesses, and ask for consolation and peace for the grieving and the lonely. We pray for expectant mothers and midwives, for families and marriages in need of healing, and for those affected by conflict, poverty, or persecution. May the Lord bless Pope Francis, our bishops, priests, and all consecrated men and women with courage and fidelity. We remember the souls in Purgatory, the recently departed, all widows and widowers, and pray for an increase in holy vocations. May the grace of Christ’s Resurrection bring deliverance, hope, and lasting peace to our world. Amen. 🙏🏽
LET US PRAY:
My Lord of all strength, You are unwavering in Your determination to challenge me in the area that I need it the most. Help me to receive Your gentle rebukes of love when I am weak so that I will have the courage and strength I need to be a faithful follower of You. Give me clarity and understanding, dear Lord, and help me to overcome the misleading pressures of the world. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽
O Risen Lord, You who called Saint Catherine of Siena to be a bold voice of truth in the Church, who inspired Saint Hugh of Cluny to renew monastic life with holiness, and who strengthened Saint Peter of Verona to bear witness even unto death renew in us the fire of Your love. May we never be afraid to speak the truth in charity, to love with sacrificial hearts, and to serve with joyful obedience. Heal what is wounded within us, unify what is broken around us, and lead us ever deeper into the mystery of Your Resurrection. Amen. 🙏🏽
Save us, Savior of the world. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Joseph, Saint Catherine of Siena, Saint Hugh of Cluny, and Saint Peter of Verona ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day and the immeasurable love shown through His Son, our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. As we continue to rejoice in the glory of the Resurrection, may our hearts remain open to the peace and hope that flow from His victory over sin and death. During this joyful Easter season, we pray that our loving Savior will deepen our faith and draw us closer to the mystery of His Passion, death, and Resurrection. May we walk in the light of His risen life, renewed in spirit and overflowing with grace. Praying for us all and our loved ones today and we pray for journey mercies for all those traveling during this Easter season. May this Tuesday be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ is truly risen! Alleluia! Have a blessed, safe and grace-filled Tuesday and week 🙏🏽
Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation | https://gliopiepehe.org
Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation | Global Missons Now Awards |
Holy Mass & Rosary for the Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis – April 29, 2025
Watch “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | April 29, 2025 |
Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | April 29, 2025 |
Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” |
SAINTS OF THE DAY: MEMORIAL OF SAINT CATHERINE OF SIENA, VIRGIN AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH; SAINT HUGH OF CLUNY, ABBOT AND SAINT PETER OF VERONA, PRIEST AND MARTYR ~ FEAST DAY: APRIL 29TH: Today, we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Catherine of Siena, Virgin and Doctor of the Church; Saint Hugh of Cluny and Saint Peter of Verona, Priest and Martyr. During this Easter season, through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and the Saints on this feast day, we humbly pray for the sick, we particularly pray for those suffering from cancers and those who are terminally ill and dying. May God in His infinite grace and mercy grant them His divine healing and intervention. We also pray for the Church, the Clergy, for persecuted christians, for the conversion of sinners, for the poor and needy, for all expectant mothers and midwives and Christians all over the world. We pray for the safety and well-being of us all and our families, for peace, love and unity in our families, our marriages and our divided and conflicted world. Every life is a gift. We pray for God’s deliverance from impossible causes or situations. We pray for the souls in Purgatory and the repose of the gentle souls of our beloved family members who recently passed away and the souls of all the faithful departed, may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom. For all widows and widowers. And we continue to pray for our Holy Father, Pope Francis, the Bishops, the Clergy and all those who preach the Gospel. For vocations to the priesthood and religious life, for the Church, for persecuted christians, for all the innocent who suffer violence due to political or religious unrest, for the conversion of sinners and Christians all over the world. Amen 🙏🏽
SAINT CATHERINE OF SIENA, VIRGIN AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH: St. Catherine (March 25, 1347 – April 29, 1380), was born in Siena, on the feast of the Annunciation, March 25, 1347 and was one of the youngest, 24th of 25 children of a wealthy wool dyer and his wife, Jacopo and Lapa Benincasa. Her twin sister died in infancy. A lay member of the third-order Dominican, was a mystic, activist, and author who had a great influence on Italian literature and the Catholic Church. St. Catherine was a peacemaker and counselor to the Pope. She singlehandedly ended the Avignon exile of the successors of Peter in the 14th century. St. Catherine exhibited an unusually independent character as a child and an exceptionally intense prayer life. When she was seven years old she had the first of her mystical visions, in which she saw Jesus surrounded by Saints and seated in glory. In the same year she vowed to consecrate her virginity to Christ. When, at the age of 16, her parents decided that she should marry, she cut off her hair to make herself less appealing, and her father, realizing that he couldn’t contend with her resolve, let her have her way. She joined the Dominican Tertiaries and lived a deep and solitary life of prayer and meditation for the next three years in which she had constant mystical experiences, capped, by the end of the three years with an extraordinary union with God granted to only a few mystics, known as ‘mystical marriage.’ She had regular mystical visits from, and conversations with, Jesus, Mary, and many of the Saints. St. Catherine had no formal education and was illiterate, yet her theological knowledge acquired through prayer astounded learned theologians. She was especially devoted to working for the unity and spiritual health of the Church.
St. Catherine suffered many intense periods of desolation alongside her mystical ecstasies, often feeling totally abandoned by God. She ended her solitude at this point and began tending to the sick, poor, and marginalized, especially lepers. As her reputation for holiness and remarkable personality became known throughout Siena, she attracted a band of disciples, two of whom became her confessors and biographers, and together they served Christ in the poor with even greater ardor. The Lord called her to a more public life while she was still in her 20s, and she established correspondences with many influential figures, advising and admonishing them and exhorting them to holiness, including the Pope himself who she never hesitated to rebuke when she saw fit. Great political acts which are attributed to her include achieving peace between the Holy See and Florence who were at war, to convince the Pope to return from his Avignon exile, which he did in 1376, and to heal the great schism between the followers of the legitimate Pope, Urban VI, and those who opposed him in 1380. She achieved this while on her deathbed. Her Dialogues, one of the classics of Italian literature, are the record of her mystical visions which she dictated in a state of mystical ecstasy. St. Catherine was a great mystic and was granted the stigmata, in 1375, while visiting Pisa, she received the stigmata, even though they never appeared on her body during her lifetime, owing to her request to God. They appeared only on her incorruptible body after her death. Her practical wisdom and profound spiritual insight was widely sought both inside and outside the Church. She died in Rome on April 29, 1380, at the age of 33, worn out by penances, travel, and the burden of her involvement in so many pressing ecclesial affairs, offering her life to God for the sanctification of the Church. She was canonized in 1461 by Pope Pius II. St. Catherine has long been regarded as one of the finest theological minds on the Church—as is shown by her outstanding work, Dialogue, as well as some 400 Letters—and on October 4, 1970 Pope Paul VI declared her a Doctor of the Church. She was the first woman (along with Teresa of Ávila) to be declared a doctor of the Church. St. Catherine of Siena is the co-patron of Italy and of Europe and the Patron Saint of fire prevention; bodily ills; miscarriages; people ridiculed for their piety; sexual temptation; sick people; sickness; nurses, Diocese of Allentown, Pennsylvania, USA; Europe; illness; Italy; Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines; Samal, Bataan, Philippines.
Quotes of Saint Catherine of Siena:
“Sin arises simply from loving what God hates and hating what God loves.”
“Let all do the work which God has given them, and not bury their talent, for that is also a sin deserving severe punishment. It is necessary to work always and everywhere for all God’s creatures.”
PRAYER: Saint Catherine of Siena, your love of God was expressed in so many vibrant ways and in a fervent love of His Church. From your exalted place in heaven, we seek your powerful intercession to make all Catholics more ardent in their love of the Trinity, of the Passion, and of the Papacy… Amen 🙏🏽
God, You caused St. Catherine to shine with Divine love in the contemplation of the Lord’s Passion and in the service of Your Church. By her help, grant that Your people, associated in the mystery of Christ, may ever exult in the revelation of His glory… Amen 🙏🏽
SAINT HUGH OF CLUNY, ABBOT: St. Hugh (1024-1109) sometimes called Hugh the Great or Hugh of Semur, was the Abbot of Cluny from 1049 until his death. A prince and was an adviser to nine popes. He was one of the most influential leaders of the monastic orders from the Middle Ages. Renowned for his charity towards the suffering poor, he built a hospital for lepers, where he himself performed the most menial duties. Saint Hugh was a prince related to the sovereign house of the dukes of Burgundy, and received his education under the tutelage of his pious mother and by the solicitude of Hugh, Bishop of Auxerre, his great-uncle. From his infancy he was given to prayer and meditation, and his life was remarkably innocent and holy. One day, hearing an account of the wonderful sanctity of the monks of Cluny under Saint Odilo, he was so moved that he set out at that moment, and going there humbly begged the monastic habit. After a rigid novitiate, he made his profession in 1039, at the age of sixteen years. His extraordinary virtue, especially his admirable humility, obedience, charity, sweetness, prudence, and zeal, gained him the respect of the entire community.
At the death of Saint Odilo in 1049, though Saint Hugh was only twenty-five years old, he succeeded to the government of that great abbey, which he continued for sixty-two years. During those years, the role of Cluny was immense. From it came two very illustrious Popes, Urban II and Pascal II, both disciples of Saint Hugh. The king of Castille, Alphonsus VI, owed his deliverance from an imprisonment to the prayers and intervention of Saint Hugh. A count of Macon entered the monastery with thirty knights and a great many servants, while the countess, his wife, retired to a convent founded by Saint Hugh. Donations of large terrains were made to this Abbey, permitting innumerable foundations. Urban II gave Saint Hugh the right to wear pontifical ornaments for the solemn feast days. Saint Hugh of Cluny died on April 29, 1109, at the age of eighty-five years. He was canonized twelve years after his death by Pope Calixtus II on January 1, 1120. He’s Patron Saint against fever.
Saint Hugh of Cluny, Abbot ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽
SAINT PETER OF VERONA, PRIEST AND MARTYR: St. Peter of Verona (1205- April 6, 1252) was a 13th century Italian Catholic priest. He was a Dominican friar and a celebrated preacher. His parents were Manichaeans, but he was converted and entered the Order of Preachers with the ambition not only of preaching the faith but of giving his life for it. He served as Inquisitor in Lombardy and had his wish, for in the course of his apostolic work he was assassinated by the Manichaeans on the road from Como to Milan in 1252. St. Peter of Verona was born in 1205 at Verona of Manichean parents; there he nonetheless attended a Catholic school. One day his Manichean uncle asked what he learnt there. The Creed, answered Peter: I believe in God, Creator of heaven and earth. No arguments could shake his faith, and at the age of sixteen he received the habit from Saint Dominic himself at Bologna. After his ordination, he preached to the heretics of Lombardy and converted multitudes. Saint Peter was constantly obliged to dispute with heretics, and although he was able to confound them, still the devil took occasion thereby to tempt him one day against faith. Instantly he had recourse to prayer before an image of Our Lady, and heard a voice saying to him the words of Jesus Christ in the Gospel, I have prayed for thee, Peter, that thy faith may not fail; and thou shalt confirm thy brethren in it. (Luke 22:32)
He often conversed with the Saints, and one day the martyred virgins Catherine, Agnes and Cecilia appeared to him and conferred with him. A passing religious, hearing their feminine voices, accused him to their Superior, who without hesitation or questions, exiled him to a convent where no preaching was being done. Saint Peter submitted humbly, but complained in prayer to Jesus crucified that He was abandoning him to his bad reputation. The crucifix spoke: And I, Peter, was I too not innocent? Learn from Me to suffer the greatest sorrows with joy. Eventually his innocence was brought to light; for his part, he had learned in his solitude to love humiliation and confusion. Again engaged in preaching, miracles accompanied his exhortations. He traveled all over Italy and became famous. Once when preaching to a vast crowd under the burning sun, the heretics defied him to procure shade. He prayed, and a cloud overshadowed the audience. Every day at the elevation of the Mass he prayed, Grant, Lord, that I may die for Thee, who for me didst die. His prayer was answered. His enemies, confounded by him, sought his life. Two of them attacked him in 1252 on the road to Milan and struck his head with an axe. Saint Peter fell, commended himself to God, dipped his finger in his own blood, and wrote on the ground, I believe in God, Creator of heaven and earth. He was then stabbed to death. The brother religious accompanying him also suffered death. The details of the crime were made known by Saint Peter’s murderer, named Carino, who after fleeing from justice confessed his crime, asking for a penance from the Dominican Fathers. He took the habit, and according to their testimony lived the life of a saint and persevered to the end. Miracles at Saint Peter’s tomb and elsewhere converted a great many heretics. He was canonized as a Catholic saint 11 months after his death, making this the fastest canonization in history. He’s Patron Saint of Inquisitors, midwives and Guaynabo, Puerto Rico
St. Peter of Verona, Priest and Martyr ~ Pray for us🙏🏽
SECOND MONDAY OF EASTER
SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: FEAST DAY ~ APRIL 28, 2025
MEMORIAL OF SAINT LOUIS-MARIE GRIGNON DE MONTFORT, PRIEST; SAINT PETER CHANEL, PRIEST AND MARTYR AND SAINT GIANNA BERETTA MOLLA | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary for the Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis | EWTN | April 27, 2025 | “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-daily-mass-55/
Watch “THIRD NOVENDIAL MASS MASS FOR POPE FRANCIS | PRESIDED OVER BY CARDINAL BALDASSARE REINA | LIVE FROM THE VATICAN | APRIL 28, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/funeral-mass-of-pope-francis/
Live from St. Peter’s Basilica: Third Novendial Mass for the Holy Father Pope Francis. The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by His Eminence Cardinal Baldassare Reina, Vicar General of His Holiness for the Diocese of Rome.
Novemdiales (Nine Days of Mourning) Masses Schedule for Pope Francis (26 April 2025 – 4 May 2025)
Learn more about the Novendiales (Nine days of mourning) in the Papal Interregnum article below:
PAPAL INTERREGNUM (VACANCY OF THE APOSTOLIC SEE) | EWTN | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/papal-interregnum/
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Daily Reflections with Philomena | Prayer for the Soul of Pope Francis | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/precious-in-the-sight-of-the-lord-is-the-death-of-his-saints-psalm-11615/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family. Happy Monday Second week of Easter!
We continue to celebrate and rejoice in the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. May God’s grace and mercy be with us all during this Easter season and always 🙏🏽
PRAYER FOR THE SOUL OF POPE FRANCIS AND SUCESS OF THE CONCLAVE
With the passing of Pope Francis, let us continue to pray for the eternal repose of his soul and for the College of Cardinals as they embark on their sacred duty to elect Pope Francis’ successor:
Heavenly Father, You entrusted the care of Your Church on earth to Pope Francis, and now You have called him to Yourself. We entrust his soul to Your boundless mercy. For his lifelong service, we thank You. For his care for the poor and marginalized, we thank You. For his witness to simplicity, we thank You. In Your mercy, cleanse him of all sin. Purify him and draw him into the light of Your presence. Grant him the vision of Your Eternal Essence, into which we all long to be drawn. Protect Your Church in this time of transition. Guide the Cardinals in their sacred duty. Grant them Wisdom and Courage, Hope and Charity, and the Faith they need to discern Your Holy Will.
Father Most Holy, our God and King, Creator of all that was, is, and is to come – You alone know the heart of the one You have chosen as the successor to Pope Francis. Reveal Your will to the College of Cardinals. Open their hearts to Your inspirations. Open our hearts to receive, with faith and obedience, the one whom You will raise up to sit on the Chair of Saint Peter. May he be a man of deepest compassion, a man of profound faith and hope, a man whose charity shines forth, permeating the darkness of this world with the light of Christ. You are God Most High, the God of the living and the dead, the Great I AM, the Alpha and the Omega, Eternal Being and Source of all that is. May Your holy will be done, now and forever. Amen. Alleluia.
Merciful and loving God, We entrust to You our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis. May he rest in the light of Your presence, where suffering and sorrow are no more, and every tear is wiped away. Comfort all who mourn his passing and raise up shepherds who will continue to guide Your Church in humility and love.
Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May his gentle soul and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽
On this special feast day, as we continue to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, particularly Saint Joseph, Patron of the sick and dying, we pray for the sick and dying and all those who mourn the loss of their loved ones. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, especially for our Holy Father, POPE FRANCIS, all those who died today, and all the faithful departed may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their gentle souls and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯
“Blessed are those who have died in the Lord; let them rest from their labors for their good deeds go with them.” ~ Rev 14:13
PRAYER FOR THE DEAD: In your hands, O Lord, we humbly entrust our brothers and sisters. In this life, you embraced them with your tender love; deliver them now from every evil, and bid them eternal rest. The old order has passed away: welcome them into paradise, where there will be no sorrow, no weeping or pain, but fullness of peace and joy with your Son and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen 🙏🏽
Today, as we continue to rejoice in the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, we joyfully celebrate the Memorial of Saint Louis-Marie Grignon de Montfort (Patron of Preachers and Devotees of Mary), Saint Peter Chanel (Patron of Oceania), and Saint Gianna Beretta Molla (Patron of Mothers, Physicians, and Unborn Children). Through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother Mary and these holy saints, we humbly pray for expectant mothers and the unborn, for healthcare professionals, for families and marriages, and for all who are grieving or lonely. We also pray for the souls in Purgatory, for the renewal of the Church, for our Holy Father Pope Francis, for holy vocations, for persecuted Christians, and for the conversion of sinners throughout the world. 🙏🏽
DAILY REFLECTIONS WITH PHILOMENA | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Daily Saints, Holy Mass, Holy Rosary, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Scripture Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/reflections/
Watch “HOLY MASS ON THE JUBILEE OF THE SICK AND HEALTHCARE WORKERS | Presided by H.E. Most Rev. Rino Fisichella | Live from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican | April 6, 2025” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/06/holy-mass-on-the-jubilee-of-the-sick-and-healthcare-workers/
WORLD PRAYERS FOR POPE FRANCIS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/02/26/world-prayers-for-pope-francis/
Honoring a Legacy of Service: The 10th Memorial Anniversary of Late Noble (Sir) Gabriel Louis Ihieje Opiepe (KSJI) | https://gliopiepehe.org/2025/04/12/honoring-a-legacy-of-service-the-10th-memorial-anniversary-of-late-noble-sir-gabriel-louis-ihieje-opiepe-ksji/
THE LITURGICAL YEAR IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/12/03/the-liturgical-year-in-the-catholic-church/
THE HOLY FATHER, POPE FRANCIS’ MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL: For the use of the new technologies ~ Let us pray that the use of the new technologies will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times.
PRAYER OF THE MONTH ~ POPE FRANCIS: Lord, Good Father, as I look at the world and see men and women working in it and beautifying it, a great “Thank You!” springs from my heart. The action of Your Spirit among us encourages us to grow in the progress of science and technology in the service of human dignity for integral and inclusive human development. Because we know You desire the good of all, fro5m the heart of Your Church, Your Son calls us to ensure that technology does not replace “person-to-person” contact, that the virtual does not replace the real, and that social networks do not replace social settings. Help us develop the ability to live wisely, to think deeply, to love generously, without losing heart, promoting scientific and technological growth that increasingly aligns with human development in responsibility, values, and awareness.
Amen 🙏🏽
(https://popesprayerusa.net/popes-intentions/)
Pray “Holy Rosary for Peace with Pope Francis” | “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song”| “Holy Rosary ALL 20 Mysteries | Memorare Chaplet | Prayer in Difficult Times (Powerful Prayer) | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/30/holy-rosary-for-peace-with-pope-francis/
Please find below links to the websites for Daily Reflections, Foundation and interesting topics and articles about our Catholic faith and doctrines | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/30/daily-reflections-and-prayer-links/
PRAYER FOR PEACE ~ POPE FRANCIS:
Lord God of peace, hear our prayer!
A PRAYER FOR PEACE : Lord Jesus Christ, You are the true King of peace. In You alone is found freedom. Please free our world from conflict. Bring unity to troubled nations. Let Your glorious peace reign in every heart. Dispel all darkness and evil. Protect the dignity of every human life. Replace hatred with Your love. Give wisdom to world leaders. Free them from selfish ambition. Eliminate all violence and war. Glorious Virgin Mary, Saint Michael the Archangel, Every Angel and Saint: Please pray for peace. Pray for unity amongst nations. Pray for unity amongst all people. Pray for the most vulnerable. Pray for those suffering. Pray for the fearful. Pray for those most in need. Pray for us all. Jesus, Son of the Living God, have mercy on us. Jesus, hear our prayers. Jesus, I trust in You! Amen 🙏🏽
Prayers for Peace | https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/prayers-for-peace/
SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:
Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Second Monday of Easter | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading
Today’s Bible Readings: Monday of the Second Week of Easter | April 28, 2025
Reading 1, Acts 4:23-31
Responsorial Psalm, Psalms 2:1-3, 4-6, 7-9
Gospel, John 3:1-8
Gospel Reading ~ John 3:1–8
“Amen, amen, I say to you, unless one is born of water and Spirit he cannot enter the Kingdom of God”
In today’s Gospel, we encounter Nicodemus, a Pharisee and a leader among the Jews, who approaches Jesus under the cover of night, seeking answers. Despite his high status and knowledge of the Law, Nicodemus senses that Jesus holds a truth that surpasses earthly wisdom. Jesus speaks to him of a profound mystery: the necessity of being “born from above” a rebirth not of flesh, but of water and the Spirit. Nicodemus struggles to grasp this teaching, questioning how a grown man can be born again. Jesus gently but firmly invites him into a new understanding: entry into the Kingdom of God requires a spiritual rebirth, a transformation that the human mind alone cannot fully comprehend. Like the wind that moves freely, unseen yet powerful, the Spirit moves in the hearts of believers, bringing new life. This passage reminds us that faith is not merely an intellectual agreement, but a surrender to the transforming work of the Spirit. We are invited to let go of our earthly securities and be made new by God’s grace, trusting in the mysterious and life-giving movement of His Spirit.
Reflecting further on today’s Gospel, Nicodemus represents each of us on our journey of faith. We often come to Jesus with our questions, our hesitations, and our limited understanding. Yet Jesus meets us where we are and calls us deeper. The rebirth He speaks of is the renewal offered through Baptism and the ongoing conversion of heart that the Spirit brings about daily. We cannot orchestrate this transformation ourselves; it is the work of God within us. The Spirit’s movement in our lives may be subtle or sudden, but it always leads to greater freedom, deeper love, and fuller life in Christ. We are invited today to listen for the “wind” of the Spirit and to open our hearts anew to His sanctifying grace.
In our first reading today, we witness the early Christian community gathered in fervent prayer after Peter and John are released by the authorities. They do not pray for safety or ease, but for boldness to continue proclaiming the Word of God. Their prayer acknowledges God’s sovereignty over all creation and history, recognizing that even the opposition they face falls within God’s providence. In response to their prayer, the place where they are gathered shakes, and they are all filled with the Holy Spirit, emboldened anew to speak the Word of God. This powerful scene shows that courage and mission spring from prayer and trust in God’s power. Rather than being paralyzed by fear, the disciples lean into their calling, empowered by the Spirit. It is a reminder for us that in moments of trial or intimidation, our strength is found not in retreat but in bold, Spirit-filled witness.
Reflecting on our first reading, we see the courage of the early Church rooted deeply in their relationship with God and their reliance on the Holy Spirit. Instead of focusing on the threats of their enemies, they fixed their eyes on the Lord, confident that He who made heaven and earth would also sustain and defend them. Their prayerful dependence unlocked a deeper outpouring of the Holy Spirit, equipping them to proclaim Christ fearlessly. In our own lives, we, too, are called to pray for boldness not necessarily to avoid challenges, but to meet them with faith, knowing that the Spirit is alive and at work within us.
Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, we are reminded that despite the nations raging and the kings conspiring against the Lord and His anointed, God remains sovereign. “Blessed are all who take refuge in the Lord.” The psalm assures us that human resistance cannot thwart God’s eternal plan. He has set His King on Zion, and His decree stands firm: “You are my Son; this day I have begotten you.” As believers, we take refuge not in worldly powers, but in the unshakable authority of God. Even when the world rages around us, we can find peace and strength under the shelter of His mighty hand.
Am I open to the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in my life, even when I do not fully understand it? How do I respond when God invites me to deeper trust and spiritual renewal? In times of fear or opposition, do I pray for boldness and the courage to proclaim my faith? Where in my life am I being called to lean into the Spirit’s movement rather than rely solely on my own strength? Today, let us courageously open our hearts to the Spirit’s renewing work. Like Nicodemus, may we approach Jesus with humility and desire to understand more deeply. Like the early Church, may we pray fervently and boldly, trusting that God’s Spirit will empower us to live as fearless witnesses of His love. The Spirit moves let us move with Him.
Come, Holy Spirit, breathe new life into my heart. Help me to be born anew each day through Your grace, letting go of fear and trusting in Your invisible but powerful presence. Give me boldness to witness to Christ, courage in the face of challenges, and a heart that always seeks refuge in You. Strengthen me, Lord, and renew me according to Your will, that I may live as a faithful child of God. Amen. 🙏🏽
MEMORIAL OF SAINT LOUIS-MARIE GRIGNON DE MONTFORT, PRIEST; SAINT PETER CHANEL, PRIEST AND MARTYR AND SAINT GIANNA BERETTA MOLLA ~ FEAST DAY: APRIL 28TH: Today, as we continue to rejoice in the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, we joyfully celebrate the Memorial of Saint Louis-Marie Grignon de Montfort (Patron of Preachers and Devotees of Mary), Saint Peter Chanel (Patron of Oceania), and Saint Gianna Beretta Molla (Patron of Mothers, Physicians, and Unborn Children). Through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother Mary and these holy saints, we humbly pray for expectant mothers and the unborn, for healthcare professionals, for families and marriages, and for all who are grieving or lonely. We also pray for the souls in Purgatory, for the renewal of the Church, for our Holy Father Pope Francis, for holy vocations, for persecuted Christians, and for the conversion of sinners throughout the world. 🙏🏽
Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | April 28th | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Louis-Marie Grignon de Montfort, Saint Peter Chanel, and Saint Gianna Beretta Molla | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-april-28th/ )
SAINT LOUIS-MARIE GRIGNON DE MONTFORT: Saint Louis-Marie Grignon de Montfort (1673–1716) was a French Roman Catholic priest, confessor, and renowned preacher. His profound devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Rosary became the cornerstone of his spirituality. Pope Clement XI appointed him as a missionary apostolic during his lifetime.
Born into a large farming family in Montfort, Brittany, Louis-Marie showed extraordinary spiritual maturity even as a child, often spending long hours in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. His love for the poor emerged early, as he ministered to the sick and destitute while still a student.
At 19, he walked over 130 miles to Paris to pursue theological studies, giving all his possessions to the poor along the way and living entirely on alms. Ordained at 27, he first served as a hospital chaplain but soon discerned his true vocation as an itinerant preacher. His dynamic preaching, fiery devotion, and emphasis on Marian spirituality converted countless souls, often gathering crowds of thousands.
Despite facing fierce opposition from the Jansenists—an influential heretical movement—he persevered, even surviving an attempt on his life. During a period of illness, he authored his masterpiece True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin, predicting that it would be hidden for a time, only to be rediscovered two centuries later.
Saint Louis-Marie founded two religious congregations: the Daughters of Divine Wisdom and the Company of Mary (Montfort Missionaries), dedicated to service and evangelization. His famous prayer of entrustment to Our Lady, “Totus Tuus ego sum” (“I am all yours”), inspired Pope Saint John Paul II to adopt “Totus Tuus” as his own episcopal motto.
Quotes of Saint Louis-Marie Grignon de Montfort:
“We never give more honour to Jesus than when we honour His Mother, and we honour her simply and solely to honour Him all the more perfectly.”
“The Rosary is the most powerful weapon to touch the Heart of Jesus, our Redeemer, who loves His Mother.”
PRAYER: O God, You guided the footsteps of Saint Louis-Marie in the way of salvation and the love of Christ, with the help of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Grant that, following his example, we may meditate on the mysteries of Your love and labor tirelessly to build up Your Church. Amen.🙏🏽
SAINT PETER CHANEL, PRIEST AND MARTYR: Saint Peter Chanel (1803–1841), known as the Protomartyr of Oceania, was born in Clet, France. As a young diocesan priest, he revitalized a struggling parish through his gentle and dedicated ministry. Drawn to missionary work, he joined the newly formed Society of Mary (Marists) and was eventually sent to the South Pacific.
After a long and perilous voyage, Peter arrived at the island of Futuna, where he worked tirelessly to bring the Gospel to the people. His kindness and compassion won hearts, even attracting the interest of the king’s son. Sadly, fearing the loss of his authority, the king ordered Peter’s martyrdom.
On April 28, 1841, Saint Peter was brutally attacked and killed by native warriors. His death, however, was not in vain within five months, the entire island converted to the Catholic faith. His martyrdom fulfilled the ancient Christian truth: “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of Christians.” Saint Peter Chanel was canonized in 1954 by Pope Pius XII and is honored today as the patron saint of Oceania.
PRAYER: O God, to spread Your Church, You crowned Saint Peter Chanel with martyrdom. Grant that in these paschal joys, we may so celebrate the mysteries of Christ’s Death and Resurrection as to become faithful witnesses of the new life. Amen.🙏🏽
SAINT GIANNA BERETTA MOLLA: Saint Gianna Beretta Molla (1922–1962) was an Italian physician, wife, and mother whose heroic witness to the sanctity of life continues to inspire the world. A woman of vibrant faith and deep joy, Gianna dedicated her life to serving others as a doctor, particularly mothers, children, the elderly, and the poor.
Raised in a devout Catholic family, Gianna saw life as a beautiful gift from God. She actively participated in Catholic Action and the Saint Vincent de Paul Society, integrating her faith into every aspect of her life. After earning degrees in medicine and surgery, she opened a clinic near her hometown and later specialized in pediatrics.
Gianna joyfully embraced her vocation to marriage, marrying Pietro Molla in 1955. Together they built a loving, truly Christian family, welcoming three children: Pierluigi, Mariolina, and Laura. Balancing her roles as wife, mother, and doctor with grace, she lived her vocation to its fullest.
During her fourth pregnancy, Gianna was diagnosed with a fibroma in her uterus. Faced with difficult medical decisions, she courageously chose to preserve the life of her unborn child, accepting the risk to her own life. She gave birth to her daughter Gianna Emanuela but died shortly after on April 28, 1962, at the age of 39.
Saint Gianna was canonized by Pope Saint John Paul II in 2004 and is widely revered as a patron saint of mothers, physicians, and the unborn.
PRAYER: O God, You called Saint Gianna Beretta Molla to serve You as a wife, mother, and doctor, and to offer her life in love for her unborn child. Grant us through her intercession the courage to embrace life’s challenges with faith, hope, and love, and to always defend the dignity of human life. Amen.🙏🏽
Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Joseph, Saint Louis-Marie Grignon de Montfort, Saint Peter Chanel, and Saint Gianna Beretta Molla ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF APRIL | MONTH OF HOLY EUCHARIST: April is dedicated to the Holy Eucharist, the greatest gift of Christ to His Church. In the Eucharist, Jesus is truly present Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity offering Himself as the Bread of Life. This month invites us to deepen our love and reverence for the Eucharist, especially as we approach Holy Week and Easter, celebrating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord. The Eucharist was instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper when He said, “Take and eat; this is My Body… Drink from it, all of you, for this is My Blood of the Covenant” (Matthew 26:26-28). In receiving the Eucharist, we are united with Christ and His Church. It is the source of our strength and the culmination of our salvation, as Christ Himself said in John 6:51, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.” As we journey through Lent, we are called to renew our reverence for the Eucharist. During Holy Week, we remember that Christ instituted this sacrament on Holy Thursday, offering us a way to remain in union with Him. Let us take this opportunity to attend Mass regularly, spend time in Eucharistic adoration, and reflect on the mystery of Christ’s presence in the Blessed Sacrament.
In this season of penance and reflection, may our devotion to the Eucharist strengthen our commitment to living as true disciples of Christ, leading us to the joy of Easter and the Resurrection.
O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Lord Jesus, You have given Yourself to us in the Eucharist. May we receive You with reverence and love, and let Your grace transform us always. Amen 🙏🏽
https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12540
PRAYER INTENTIONS: As we continue to celebrate the joy of the Resurrection during this Easter season, let us pray for a renewed outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the Church and upon our hearts. Through the intercession of Saint Louis-Marie Grignon de Montfort, may we grow in true devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and become fearless proclaimers of the Gospel. Through the witness of Saint Peter Chanel, may missionaries and evangelists be strengthened in their labors, and may all peoples come to know Christ. Through the heroic example of Saint Gianna Beretta Molla, may expectant mothers, healthcare workers, and all who defend the dignity of life be guided and protected. We pray for all who are persecuted for their faith, asking for boldness and perseverance in the face of opposition, just as the Apostles prayed for courage in the early Church. May our homes, communities, and nations be renewed by the breath of the Spirit, that peace, unity, and holiness may flourish. Amen. 🙏🏽
LET US PRAY:
Lord of light and truth, You reveal Yourself to those who come to You with faith. Help me to follow the example of Nicodemus so that all confusion and darkness will be dispelled by the light of Your truth. Give me courage, dear Lord, to follow You and to set my heart on all that You reveal. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽
Come, Holy Spirit, and fill my heart anew with the fire of Your love. Like the Apostles gathered in prayer, grant me the courage to speak Your Word with boldness. Deliver me from fear, selfishness, and doubt, and help me to walk as a true child of the Resurrection. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen. 🙏🏽
God of Power and Grace, You shook the earth with the prayer of Your first disciples, and You breathed new life into those born of water and the Spirit. Today, through the intercession of Saint Louis-Marie de Montfort, Saint Peter Chanel, and Saint Gianna Beretta Molla, strengthen our faith, deepen our devotion, and inspire our witness. Form us into living temples of Your Spirit, ready to proclaim Your Kingdom with joyful hearts. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
Save us, Savior of the world. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Joseph, Saint Louis-Marie Grignon de Montfort, Saint Peter Chanel, and Saint Gianna Beretta Molla ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day and the immeasurable love shown through His Son, our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. As we continue to rejoice in the glory of the Resurrection, may our hearts remain open to the peace and hope that flow from His victory over sin and death. During this joyful Easter season, we pray that our loving Savior will deepen our faith and draw us closer to the mystery of His Passion, death, and Resurrection. May we walk in the light of His risen life, renewed in spirit and overflowing with grace. Praying for us all and our loved ones today and we pray for journey mercies for all those traveling during this Easter season. May this Monday be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ is truly risen! Alleluia! Have a blessed, safe and grace-filled Monday and week 🙏🏽
Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation | https://gliopiepehe.org
Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation | Global Missons Now Awards |
Holy Mass & Rosary for the Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis – April 28, 2025
Watch “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | April 28, 2025 |
Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | April 28, 2025 |
Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” |
MEMORIAL OF SAINT LOUIS-MARIE GRIGNON DE MONTFORT, PRIEST; SAINT PETER CHANEL, PRIEST AND MARTYR AND SAINT GIANNA BERETTA MOLLA ~ FEAST DAY: APRIL 28TH: Today, we celebrate the Memorialof Saint Louis-Marie Grignon de Montfort, Priest; St. Peter Chanel, Priest and Martyr and Saint Gianna Beretta Molla. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and the Saints during this Easter season, we humbly pray for all expectant mothers and the unborn, we pray for their safety and well-being. We pray for all Healthcare professionals, praying for their health, safety and protection especially during these incredibly challenging times. We pray for the safety and well-being of us all and our families, for peace, love and unity in our families, our marriages and our divided and conflicted world. Every life is a gift. We pray for God’s deliverance from impossible causes or situations. We pray for the souls in Purgatory and the repose of the gentle souls of our beloved family members who recently passed away and the souls of all the faithful departed, may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom. For all widows and widowers. And we continue to pray for our Holy Father, Pope Francis, the Bishops, the Clergy and all those who preach the Gospel. For vocations to the priesthood and religious life, for the Church, for persecuted christians, for all the innocent who suffer violence due to political or religious unrest, for the conversion of sinners and Christians all over the world. Amen
SAINT LOUIS-MARIE GRIGNON DE MONTFORT: St. Louis-Marie de Monfort (January 31, 1673 – April 28, 1716) was a 17th century French Roman Catholic Priest and Confessor. He was known in his time as a preacher and was made a missionary apostolic by Pope Clement XI. As well as preaching, St. Louis De Montfort found time to write a number of books which went on to become classic Catholic titles and influenced several popes. He is known for his particular and intense devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and the practice of praying the Rosary. St. Louis-Marie is perhaps most famously known for his prayer of entrustment to Our Lady, “Totus Tuus ego sum,” which means, “I am all yours.” The late-Pope John Paul II took the phrase “Totus Tuus” as his episcopal motto.
St. Louis-Marie De Monfort was born in Montfort, Brittany, France on January 31, 1673 to a large farming family. As a child he displayed an unusual spiritual maturity and spent much time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. He possessed a strong devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and was also intimately devoted to the Blessed Virgin, especially through the Rosary. He took the name Marie at his confirmation. The saint manifested a love for the poor while he was at school and joined a society of young men who ministered to the poor and the sick on school holidays. When he was 19, he walked 130 miles to Paris to study theology, gave all he had to the poor that he met along the way and made a vow to live only on alms. After his ordination at 27, he served as a hospital chaplain until the management of the hospital resented his reorganization of the staff and sent him away.
St. Louis-Marie discovered his calling to be an itinerant preacher and great gift for preaching at the age of 32, and committed himself to it for the rest of his life. He received the title of “Apostolic Missionary” from the Pope after his bishop tried to silence him. For the next 17 years he preached missions in countless towns and villages throughout France with an emphasis on renewal and reform. His fiery devotion, oratory skill, and identification with the poor led many souls to conversion. He met with such great success that he often drew crowds of thousands to hear his sermons in which he encouraged frequent communion and devotion to Mary. But he also met with opposition, especially from the Jansenists, a heretical movement within the Church that believed in absolute Predestination, in which only a chosen few are saved, and the rest damned. Much of France was influenced by Jansenism, including many bishops, who banished St. Loius-Marie from preaching in their dioceses. He was even poisoned by Jansenists in La Rochelle, but survived, though he suffered ill health after. While recuperating from the effects of the poisoning, he wrote the masterpiece of Marian piety, “True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin,” which he correctly prophesied would be hidden by the devil for a time. His seminal work was discovered 200 years after his death. One year before he died, St. Louis-Marie founded two congregations: the Daughters of Divine Wisdom – which tended to the sick in hospitals and the education of poor girls, and the Company of Mary, missionaries devoted to preaching and to spreading devotion to Mary.
Quotes of St. Louis-Marie Grignon de Montfort:
“We never give more honour to Jesus than when we honour His Mother, & we honour her simply and solely to honour Him all the more perfectly. We go to her only as a way leading to the goal we seek – Jesus, her Son.”
“The rosary is the most powerful weapon to touch the Heart of Jesus, Our Redeemer, who loves His Mother.”
O God, You willed to direct the footsteps of St. Louis, Your Priest, in the way of salvation and the love of Christ, with the accompaniment of the Blessed Virgin. Grant that following his example we may meditate on the mysteries of Your love and strive indefatigably to build up Your Church… Amen
SAINT PETER CHANEL, PRIEST AND MARTYR: The Protomartyr of the South Seas, St. Peter Chanel was born in Clet in the diocese of Belley, France, in 1803. He became a diocesan priest and in three years completely revitalized the first parish to which he was assigned. Since his mind was set on missionary work, St. Peter joined the newly formed Society of Mary (Marists), which concentrated on missionary work at home and abroad. To his dismay, he was appointed to teach at the Seminary of Belley and remained there for the next five years, diligently performing his duty. In 1836, St.Peter was sent to the New Hebrides as the superior of a little band of missionaries. After a long and arduous ten-month journey, the band split up, with Peter and two others going to evangelize the island of Futuna. Once there, St. Peter and his two assistants made headway in converting the island’s populace, attracting even the son of the King. As a result, the King dispatched a group of warriors to set upon the saintly head of the missionaries.
On April 28, 1841, three years after his arrival, a band of native warriors entered the hut of Father Peter Chanel on the island of Futuna in the New Hebrides islands near New Zealand. They seized and clubbed the missionary to death and cut up his body with hatchets. He was killed by hose he had come to save and his death brought his work to completion—within five months the entire island was converted to the Faith. Two years later, the whole island was Catholic. St. Peter Chanel’s death bears witness to then ancient axiom that “the blood of martyrs is the seed of Christians.” He is the first martyr from Oceania, that part of the world spread over the south Pacific, and he came there as the fulfillment of a dream he had had as a boy. Peter was canonized in 1954 by Pope Pius XII. Patron Saint of Oceania.
PRAYER: God, in order to spread Your Church You crowned St. Peter with martyrdom. Grant that in these paschal joys we may so frequent the mysteries of Christ’s Death and Resurrection as to become witnesses of the new life. Amen
SAINT GIANNA BERETTA MOLLA: St. Gianna (October 4, 1922 – April 28, 1962) was an Italian Roman Catholic pediatrician, a Mother, Doctor, Fashionista and Lover of Life. She was a pro-life doctor and mother who gave her life for her unborn child. Gianna Beretta was born in Magenta (Milan) October 4, 1922. Already as a youth she willingly accepted the gift of faith and the clearly Christian education that she received from her excellent parents. As a result, she experienced life as a marvelous gift from God, had a strong faith in Providence and was convinced of the necessity and effectiveness of prayer. She diligently dedicated herself to studies during the years of her secondary and university education, while, at the same time, applying her faith through generous apostolic service among the youth of Catholic Action and charitable work among the elderly and needy as a member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society. After earning degrees in Medicine and Surgery from the University of Pavia in 1949, she opened a medical clinic in Mesero (near Magenta) in 1950. She specialized in Pediatrics at the University of Milan in 1952 and there after gave special attention to mothers, babies, the elderly and poor.
While working in the field of medicine-which she considered a “mission” and practiced as such-she increased her generous service to Catholic Action, especially among the “very young” and, at the same time, expressed her joie de vivre and love of creation through skiing and mountaineering. Through her prayers and those of others, she reflected upon her vocation, which she also considered a gift from God. Having chosen the vocation of marriage, she embraced it with complete enthusiasm and wholly dedicated herself “to forming a truly Christian family”. She became engaged to Pietro Molla and was radiant with joy and happiness during the time of their engagement, for which she thanked and praised the Lord. They were married on September 24, 1955, in the Basilica of St. Martin in Magenta, and she became a happy wife. In November 1956, to her great joy, she became the mother of Pierluigi, in December 1957 of Mariolina; in July 1959 of Laura. With simplicity and equilibrium she harmonized the demands of mother, wife, doctor and her passion for life.
In September 1961 towards the end of the second month of pregnancy, she was touched by suffering and the mystery of pain; she had developed a fibroma in her uterus. Before the required surgical operation, and conscious of the risk that her continued pregnancy brought, she pleaded with the surgeon to save the life of the child she was carrying, and entrusted herself to prayer and Providence. The life was saved, for which she thanked the Lord. She spent the seven months remaining until the birth of the child in incomparable strength of spirit and unrelenting dedication to her tasks as mother and doctor. She worried that the baby in her womb might be born in pain, and she asked God to prevent that. A few days before the child was due, although trusting as always in Providence, she was ready to give her life in order to save that of her child: “If you must decide between me and the child, do not hesitate: choose the child – I insist on it. Save him”. On the morning of April 21, 1962, Gianna Emanuela was born. Despite all efforts and treatments to save both of them, on the morning of April 28, amid unspeakable pain and after repeated exclamations of “Jesus, I love you. Jesus, I love you», the mother died. She was 39 years old. Her funeral was an occasion of profound grief, faith and prayer. The Servant of God lies in the cemetery of Mesero (4 km from Magenta). “Conscious immolation, was the phrase used by Pope Paul VI to define the act of Blessed Gianna, remembering her at the Sunday Angelus of September 23, 1973, as: “A young mother from the diocese of Milan, who, to give life to her daughter, sacrificed her own, with conscious immolation”. The Holy Father in these words clearly refers to Christ on Calvary and in the Eucharist. St. Gianna was beatified by Pope John Paul II on April 24, 1994, during the international Year of the Family. She was canonized by Pope St. John Paul II on May 16, 2004. She’s the Patron Saint of mothers, physicians, wives, families, and preborn children.
PRAYER TO SAINT GIANNA FOR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS: Dear St. Gianna, you who knew that Christ Himself was present in each of your patients, and who chose medicine as a way to serve Him, we entrust to you the health care professionals of our times. We ask you to take into your care in a special way those who do not know Christ, beseeching the Holy Spirit to fill their hearts with Love since God is Love. We ask you to comfort those who are Christians. Keep their eyes focused on their Divine Savior, and never let them forget that He is present before them and through them. You who knew so well the challenges of combining your work with your family life, take care of the families of our doctors, nurses, and health care workers. Help them to know that in their generosity, they too are serving God. Intercede for the health care workers who are sick in body or in spirit, overwhelmed by the high price their bodies and their spirits must pay in order to assist others.
Ask God to bring the souls of the health care professionals who have died into the mercy of his loving embrace.
St. Gianna Molla, pray for them and pray for us.”… Amen
SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER; THE EIGHTH DAY IN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER (YEAR C)
DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY: THE FEAST OF MERCY
FEAST AND SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: FEAST DAY ~ APRIL 27, 2025
FEAST OF OUR LADY OF MONTSERRAT | MEMORIAL OF SAINT ZITA OF LUCCA, VIRGIN | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day
Watch “NOVENDIALES MASS FOR POPE FRANCIS AND CLOSING CELEBRATION OF THE JUBILEE FOR TEENAGERS | CARDINAL PIETRO PAROLIN | LIVE FROM THE VATICAN | APRIL 27, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/funeral-mass-of-pope-francis/
Novemdiales (Nine Days of Mourning) Masses Schedule for Pope Francis (26 April 2025 – 4 May 2025)
Learn more about the Novendiales (Nine days of mourning) in the Papal Interregnum article below:
PAPAL INTERREGNUM (VACANCY OF THE APOSTOLIC SEE) | EWTN | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/papal-interregnum/
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary for the Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis | EWTN | April 27, 2025 | “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy”* | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-daily-mass-54/
Daily Reflections with Philomena | Prayer for the Soul of Pope Francis | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/precious-in-the-sight-of-the-lord-is-the-death-of-his-saints-psalm-11615/
DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY | April 27, 2025 |
https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/17/divine-mercy-novena/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family. Happy Divine Mercy Sunday!
Today, on this Divine Mercy Sunday, The Eighth Day in the Octave of Easter, we rejoice in the boundless mercy of our Risen Lord. The first eight days of the Easter season (Easter octave) are celebrated as solemnities of the Lord. Each day is another little Easter. The Alleluia verse is repeated throughout the octave: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. Alleluia!” As we celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday, we thank God for the graces poured out upon us throughout the Easter Octave and our Divine Mercy Novena. May the grace and mercy of Jesus flow into every area of our lives, healing, renewing, and strengthening us in faith and love on this Divine Mercy Sunday, during this Easter season and always. Jesus, we trust in You! 🙏🏽
DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY: THE FEAST OF MERCY: Today is the eighth and final day of the Octave of Easter. On this day, the Octave of Easter, we celebrate the Feast of Mercy. From ancient times the Easter octave, culminating on the 8th day, has been centered on the theme of God’s mercy and forgiveness. The final day of the octave celebration of Easter is meant to be a day of thanksgiving to God for His goodness to mankind through the Paschal mystery, that is, the Passion, death, and Resurrection of our Savior Jesus Christ. The Second Sunday of Easter was named Divine Mercy Sunday by Pope St. John Paul II. On May 5, 2000, Pope Saint John Paul II decreed that the Second Sunday of Easter, the Octave of Easter, would be known as Divine Mercy Sunday following a request from Our Lord in His private revelations to St. Faustina Kowalska in Vilnius Lithuania. [Full article visit – https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/17/divine-mercy-novena/ ]
PRAYER FOR THE SOUL OF POPE FRANCIS
As our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis is finally laid to rest, let us together continue to pray for the eternal repose of his soul.
Merciful and loving God, we entrust to You our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis, whom You have called from this life to Yourself. We thank You for his faithful and courageous witness to the Gospel, his compassion for the poor and the marginalized, and his tireless devotion to building bridges of peace and unity in Your Church. Receive him into the joy of Your eternal embrace. May he rest in the light of Your presence, where suffering and sorrow are no more, and every tear is wiped away. Comfort all who mourn his passing, and raise up shepherds who will continue to guide Your Church in humility and love.
O God, faithful rewarder of souls, grant that your departed servant Pope Francis, whom you made successor of Peter and shepherd of your Church, may happily enjoy forever in your presence in heaven the mysteries of your grace and compassion, which he faithfully ministered on earth. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen 🙏🏽
Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May his gentle soul and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽
On this special feast day, as we continue to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, particularly Saint Joseph, Patron of the sick and dying, we pray for the sick and dying and all those who mourn the loss of their loved ones. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, especially for our Holy Father, POPE FRANCIS, all those who died today, and all the faithful departed may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their gentle souls and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯
“Blessed are those who have died in the Lord; let them rest from their labors for their good deeds go with them.” ~ Rev 14:13
PRAYER FOR THE DEAD: In your hands, O Lord, we humbly entrust our brothers and sisters. In this life, you embraced them with your tender love; deliver them now from every evil, and bid them eternal rest. The old order has passed away: welcome them into paradise, where there will be no sorrow, no weeping or pain, but fullness of peace and joy with your Son and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen 🙏🏽
Today, as we continue to celebrate the joy of the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, we joyfully celebrate both the Feast of Our Lady of Montserrat and the Memorial of Saint Zita of Lucca, Virgin, Patroness of Domestic Workers. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, Our Lady of Montserrat, and Saint Zita, we humbly pray for the sick, especially those who are terminally ill and dying. May God, in His infinite grace and mercy, grant them healing, comfort, and hope. We also pray for the Church, for our Holy Father Pope Francis, for the clergy, for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and for all domestic workers, maids, waiters, waitresses, and Christians around the world. 🙏🏽
DAILY REFLECTIONS WITH PHILOMENA | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Daily Saints, Holy Mass, Holy Rosary, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Scripture Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/reflections/
Watch “HOLY MASS ON THE JUBILEE OF THE SICK AND HEALTHCARE WORKERS | Presided by H.E. Most Rev. Rino Fisichella | Live from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican | April 6, 2025” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/06/holy-mass-on-the-jubilee-of-the-sick-and-healthcare-workers/
WORLD PRAYERS FOR POPE FRANCIS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/02/26/world-prayers-for-pope-francis/
Honoring a Legacy of Service: The 10th Memorial Anniversary of Late Noble (Sir) Gabriel Louis Ihieje Opiepe (KSJI) | https://gliopiepehe.org/2025/04/12/honoring-a-legacy-of-service-the-10th-memorial-anniversary-of-late-noble-sir-gabriel-louis-ihieje-opiepe-ksji/
THE LITURGICAL YEAR IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/12/03/the-liturgical-year-in-the-catholic-church/
THE HOLY FATHER, POPE FRANCIS’ MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL: For the use of the new technologies ~ Let us pray that the use of the new technologies will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times.
PRAYER OF THE MONTH ~ POPE FRANCIS: Lord, Good Father, as I look at the world and see men and women working in it and beautifying it, a great “Thank You!” springs from my heart. The action of Your Spirit among us encourages us to grow in the progress of science and technology in the service of human dignity for integral and inclusive human development. Because we know You desire the good of all, fro5m the heart of Your Church, Your Son calls us to ensure that technology does not replace “person-to-person” contact, that the virtual does not replace the real, and that social networks do not replace social settings. Help us develop the ability to live wisely, to think deeply, to love generously, without losing heart, promoting scientific and technological growth that increasingly aligns with human development in responsibility, values, and awareness.
Amen 🙏🏽
(https://popesprayerusa.net/popes-intentions/)
Pray “Holy Rosary for Peace with Pope Francis” | “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song”| “Holy Rosary ALL 20 Mysteries | Memorare Chaplet | Prayer in Difficult Times (Powerful Prayer) | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/30/holy-rosary-for-peace-with-pope-francis/
Please find below links to the websites for Daily Reflections, Foundation and interesting topics and articles about our Catholic faith and doctrines | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/30/daily-reflections-and-prayer-links/
PRAYER FOR PEACE ~ POPE FRANCIS:
Lord God of peace, hear our prayer!
A PRAYER FOR PEACE: Lord Jesus Christ, You are the true King of peace. In You alone is found freedom. Please free our world from conflict. Bring unity to troubled nations. Let Your glorious peace reign in every heart. Dispel all darkness and evil. Protect the dignity of every human life. Replace hatred with Your love. Give wisdom to world leaders. Free them from selfish ambition. Eliminate all violence and war. Glorious Virgin Mary, Saint Michael the Archangel, Every Angel and Saint: Please pray for peace. Pray for unity amongst nations. Pray for unity amongst all people. Pray for the most vulnerable. Pray for those suffering. Pray for the fearful. Pray for those most in need. Pray for us all. Jesus, Son of the Living God, have mercy on us. Jesus, hear our prayers. Jesus, I trust in You! Amen 🙏🏽
Prayers for Peace | https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/prayers-for-peace/
SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:
Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Second Sunday of Easter | Sunday of Divine Mercy | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading
Today’s Bible Readings: Second Sunday of Easter | Sunday of Divine Mercy | April 27, 2025
Reading 1, Acts 5:12-16
Responsorial Psalm, Psalms 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24
Reading 2, Revelation 1:9-11, 12-13, 17-19
Gospel, John 20:19-31
Gospel Reading ~ John 20:19–31
“Eight days later Jesus came and stood in their midst; Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed”
“On the evening of that first day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.” Thomas, called Didymus, one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples said to him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nailmarks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” Now a week later his disciples were again inside and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, although the doors were locked, and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands, and bring your hand and put it into my side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe.” Thomas answered and said to him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.” Now, Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples that are not written in this book. But these are written that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that through this belief you may have life in his name.”
Today’s Gospel reading on this Divine Mercy Sunday from the Gospel according to St. John the Apostle and Evangelist, highlights the moment when the Risen Lord appeared before His disciples, and gave them the gift of His Holy Spirit, revealing at the same time that He has truly risen from the dead and was not merely a spirit. He was truly indeed Risen in the Body and Spirit, and He gave them all the authority and power to forgive sins, to perform the many miracles and signs, just as we have heard in our first reading today. According to the Gospel, St. Thomas the Apostle, the one who often doubted the Lord was not there when the Risen Lord first made His appearance, and how he challenged the Risen Lord to appear before him so that he could ascertain whether he was truly Risen or not. That was just precisely what the Lord did, as He appeared before all the disciples including that of St. Thomas, and asked the latter to do as he had wanted to do, to put his fingers and touch the marks of the nails and the wound at His side. We heard how St. Thomas finally believed and made the public profession of faith, ‘My Lord and my God’ before everyone. Through this event, we are yet again reminded that our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, the Son of God had truly risen from the dead and triumphed over sin and death. And through Him all of us shall receive the assurance of eternal life, which has been provided to us through what He had gone through on the Cross, and as He triumphantly rose from the dead, the manifestation of the Divine Love and Mercy of God, having been made accessible for all of us.
Reflecting on today’s Gospel reading, we encounter the tender mercy of Jesus in the face of doubt. After His Resurrection, Jesus appears to His fearful disciples, offering them peace and breathing the Holy Spirit upon them, entrusting them with the ministry of reconciliation. Yet Thomas, absent at the time, struggles to believe their testimony. His condition for belief that he must see and touch the wounds of Christ resonates with human nature’s need for tangible proof. A week later, Jesus lovingly meets Thomas where he is, inviting him to touch His wounds and believe. Thomas’s response, “My Lord and my God!” is not merely an acknowledgment of seeing but a profound confession of faith. This encounter reminds us that Jesus is patient with our doubts. He does not condemn Thomas but invites him into deeper faith. In our moments of uncertainty, Jesus comes to us as He did to Thomas, offering peace and the reassurance of His living presence. Even when we do not see Him physically, we are called to trust in His word, His promises, and His enduring love. Faith is not about having all the evidence; it is about trusting the One who is faithful.
Reflecting further on today’s Gospel, we see the mercy of the Risen Christ so powerfully at work. He knows the fears, the doubts, and the closed hearts of His disciples, yet He responds not with anger but with peace. He grants them the Holy Spirit and sends them forth with the authority to forgive sins a sacred trust born from Divine Mercy. Thomas represents all of us who wrestle with belief, who long for signs and reassurance. His journey from doubt to profound faith offers hope: that even in our weakest moments, the Risen Lord meets us, transforms our doubts, and strengthens our faith. On this Divine Mercy Sunday, instituted by Saint John Paul II, it emphasizes the boundless mercy of God poured out through the Resurrection. The peace Jesus offers is not just an absence of conflict but the profound reconciliation between God and humanity made possible by His death and Resurrection. Today, we are called to trust more deeply in His mercy, to ask for His grace, and to be instruments of His peace in the world.
Our first reading his Sunday from the Acts of the Apostles gives an account of the works of the Apostles, who continued to carry out the missions and works which the Lord Himself has entrusted to them, and we heard how they had performed many miracles and signs before the people much as how the Lord Jesus had done when He was still carrying out His ministry in this world. The fact that those miracles and signs, wonders and great works were performed by the Apostles even after the Lord had died and then risen in glory, and ascended into Heaven, is a clear evidence that God was still with His disciples and Church, and He still performed His many good works through the hands of His Apostles and other disciples, the missionaries of the Kingdom of God. Through their works, the Apostles and the other disciples of the Lord showed to all of God’s people, primarily and at first the Israelites and then the non-Jewish people or the Gentiles, the great love and compassion that God has for all of them, without exception. To the Jewish people, the descendants of the people of God, the Lord wanted to show them that He has fulfilled and accomplished all the promises that He had once made in the Covenant sealed with their forefathers, with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and renewed again and again throughout history. And then, to the Gentiles, God shows that His salvation, His love and kindness are not reserved only for the Jewish people only, as everyone, through God’s Church have been made partakers of the same New and Eternal Covenant that the Lord Himself has established through His Son.
Reflecting on our First Reading today, we witness the vibrant life of the early Church. Signs and wonders accompany the apostles’ ministry, and countless people are drawn to the faith. The healing power flowing from Peter, even through his shadow, echoes the living presence of the Risen Christ among His people. The miracles testify not to the apostles’ greatness but to the continuing work of Jesus through them. Their boldness, their witness, and the miracles are fruits of the Holy Spirit, given to them after Jesus’ Resurrection. Like them, we are called to be courageous witnesses to Christ, instruments of His mercy, and bearers of His healing presence to a hurting world.
Our second reading today from the Book of Revelations of St. John the Apostle, details the vision that St. John had received while he was exiled in the Isle of Patmos at his old age, during one of the episodes of persecutions against Christians by the Roman Empire. St. John saw the vision of the Lord, in all of His glory, appearing before Him in Heaven, the appearance of the Son of Man, that is Jesus Himself, in His heavenly glory, with His glorified Resurrected Body. The seven lampstands in the vision marked the seven Angels that always stand before the Holy Presence of God, and therefore, highlighting the Divinity of Christ, Who is truly fully Man and fully God alike. And in that vision, the Lord told St. John to record everything that he had seen so that he could propagate them to the Church communities then, and therefore to help the faithful to come to know God more. Through what St. John experienced in that amazing heavenly vision, he saw the Lord Who proclaimed Himself as the Almighty God, Who has triumphed and conquered sin and death, overcoming the fetters and shackles keeping us mankind from reaching out to Him, by the incarnation of His Son in the flesh, and by Whose death and Resurrection all of us have been made partakers of the New and Eternal Covenant of God, sealed by the Most Precious Blood of the Son of God Himself. And the Lord did all of these because of His ever enduring and ever present love for each one of us, the love which He desires to share with us, and which He has manifested clearly before us through Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Saviour, the manifestation of God’s love and mercy in this world, making this love and mercy tangible and reachable to us.
Reflecting on today’s Second Reading from Revelation, we see John’s awe at encountering the glorified Christ. Jesus reassures him, “Do not be afraid,” affirming His victory over death. These words are for us too. As we face trials and uncertainties, the Risen Christ stands in our midst, offering peace, courage, and hope.
How do I respond when my faith is challenged by doubts or fears? In what areas of my life is Jesus inviting me to trust Him more deeply without seeing? How can I be an instrument of Christ’s peace and mercy to others, especially those struggling with faith? Today, on this Divine Mercy Sunday, we are reminded that Christ’s love and forgiveness are greater than our doubts and weaknesses. Let us open our hearts to His peace, believe even without seeing, and become courageous witnesses of His mercy to the world. Like the apostles, we are sent forth to proclaim the Good News: Jesus Christ is alive, and through Him, we have life in abundance! 🙏🏽
As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today on this Sunday, when we mark the occasion of the Second Sunday of Easter, the Octave Day of the Easter Octave, the eighth day since the glorious Easter Sunday. On this Sunday all of us are called to continue to keep in mind the core belief of our Christian faith in the suffering, death and Resurrection of Our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. We all believe that Jesus is truly the Son of God, the manifestation of God’s most wonderful and generous love in the flesh, through Whom God has made His will clear and evident, and by Whose victory and triumph over sin and death, all of us, the faithful and holy people of God, have been shown the clear and certain path to eternal glory and true happiness with God, our Lord and Master, our Mighty King and also our most Merciful and loving Father. On this Divine Mercy Sunday, we are reminded of this Aspect of the Lord in His most generous and rich mercy towards all of us. The Divine Mercy has revealed Himself to us through one St. Faustina Kowalska about a century ago, who made known the revelations through her diary, which went through many hurdles and struggles before finally being accepted by the Church as part of its official teachings. Today, the devotion to the Divine Mercy is one of the most popular devotions in the Church, with millions praying the devotion daily and more. This is truly a very heartening matter as through this particular devotion to the Divine Mercy, the Merciful Aspect of God, many people are coming towards the Lord seeking His forgiveness and healing. For all of us members of the Christian faithful, we are reminded that if we seek God sincerely with a repentant and contrite heart, God, the Divine Mercy, in His infinite and boundless mercy will show us His compassion and love, and will heal us from all of our afflictions, our sins and wickedness, our corruptions and evils. And this is why as we commit ourselves anew to the Lord, the Divine Mercy, we should continue to do our best in this world to be truly faithful to Him in all things, becoming good role models and inspirations for one another and for others around us, to show the love and mercy of God to the world. And we are constantly reminded this Easter season that through God’s most wonderful love and mercy, we have been brought into the path towards eternal life and true happiness with God. Let us all therefore put our trust and faith in the Divine Mercy of God and continue to live our lives most faithfully in the manner that we all should do as Christians, that is as the disciples and followers of Christ. All of us are reminded that we should not remain idle in our faith and lives, but we must embody God’s love and mercy in our daily lives, in doing our very best to show love and compassion to our fellow brothers and sisters around us. We must always practice love and charity in our everyday actions, in everything that we say and do, in our every interactions with one another, to our brethren around us and even strangers in our midst. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace and may the good Lord, the Divine Mercy continue to bless us all and guide us with His compassion and love, now and always. Amen 🙏🏽
Risen Lord Jesus, You who are rich in mercy, come into my heart today. Like Thomas, I long to encounter You in a personal and life-changing way. Strengthen my faith when I doubt, fill me with Your peace when I am afraid, and breathe Your Spirit upon me anew. Help me to be a faithful witness to Your Resurrection and a channel of Your Divine Mercy to all I meet. My Lord and my God, I trust in You. Amen. 🙏🏽
FEAST OF OUR LADY OF MONTSERRAT | MEMORIAL OF SAINT ZITA OF LUCCA, VIRGIN ~ FEAST DAY: APRIL 27TH: Today, as we continue to celebrate the joy of the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, we joyfully celebrate both the Feast of Our Lady of Montserrat and the Memorial of Saint Zita of Lucca, Virgin, Patroness of Domestic Workers. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, Our Lady of Montserrat, and Saint Zita, we humbly pray for the sick, especially those who are terminally ill and dying. May God, in His infinite grace and mercy, grant them healing, comfort, and hope. We also pray for the Church, for our Holy Father Pope Francis, for the clergy, for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and for all domestic workers, maids, waiters, waitresses, and Christians around the world. 🙏🏽
Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | April 27th | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
( Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Zita of Lucca, Virgin | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-april-27th/ )
OUR LADY OF MONTSERRAT: Our Lady of Montserrat, or the Virgin of Montserrat, is a revered title of the Blessed Virgin Mary associated with the ancient statue venerated at the Santa Maria de Montserrat monastery on Montserrat Mountain in Catalonia, Spain. Tradition holds that the statue was originally carved by St. Luke and brought to Montserrat by St. Peter around 50 A.D.
The devotion to Our Lady of Montserrat dates back to the early Middle Ages. In 888, an image of the Virgin was miraculously found among the rocky cliffs of Montserrat. Over time, this mountain, whose name means “saw-edged” in Latin, became one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Spain. The statue, affectionately called La Moreneta (“The Little Black Madonna”) due to its darkened color from age, remains a symbol of deep faith, hope, and miracles.
Pilgrims like St. Ignatius of Loyola found their calling after praying before this statue. Our Lady of Montserrat continues to inspire countless souls, offering maternal protection to the suffering, the sorrowful, and the sinful.
PRAYER: O God, Giver of all good things, who chose Montserrat as a glorious shrine for the Mother of Your only-begotten Son, and through her intercession have granted countless favors to those who seek You, hear our petitions as we kneel before her image. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
SAINT ZITA OF LUCCA, VIRGIN: Saint Zita (1212–1272) was a humble and holy domestic worker who became a shining example of faithfulness in daily life. Born into a poor but devout family near Lucca, Italy, she was taught by her mother from a young age to seek God’s will in all things. At twelve years old, Zita began working as a maid for the wealthy Fatinelli family in Lucca. Despite facing years of mistreatment and harshness, she responded with patience, forgiveness, and tireless devotion to duty.
Zita was known for waking up early to attend Mass before beginning her household work. She maintained an active prayer life throughout the day, offering her labor as a form of prayer. Eventually, her employers recognized her holiness and entrusted her with greater responsibilities. Zita became a true servant of Christ, practicing acts of charity even at her own expense, generously helping the poor and feeding the hungry.
A famous legend recounts that once when she left her bread baking to aid the poor, angels completed her task for her. Zita’s life exemplified the dignity of work, prayerful service, and the Gospel call to love, even in difficult circumstances. After a life of hidden holiness, she died peacefully at prayer on April 27, 1272. Many miracles followed her death, leading to her veneration as the Patron Saint of domestic workers, maids, waiters, waitresses, those ridiculed for piety, and seekers of lost keys. Her incorrupt body is venerated today in the Basilica of San Frediano in Lucca.
PRAYER: Lord God, You showered heavenly gifts upon Saint Zita the Virgin. Help us to imitate her humility, patience, and diligence, that by faithfully serving You on earth, we may rejoice with her forever in heaven. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Joseph, Our Lady of Montserrat and Saint Zita ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF APRIL | MONTH OF HOLY EUCHARIST: April is dedicated to the Holy Eucharist, the greatest gift of Christ to His Church. In the Eucharist, Jesus is truly present Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity offering Himself as the Bread of Life. This month invites us to deepen our love and reverence for the Eucharist, especially as we approach Holy Week and Easter, celebrating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord. The Eucharist was instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper when He said, “Take and eat; this is My Body… Drink from it, all of you, for this is My Blood of the Covenant” (Matthew 26:26-28). In receiving the Eucharist, we are united with Christ and His Church. It is the source of our strength and the culmination of our salvation, as Christ Himself said in John 6:51, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.” As we journey through Lent, we are called to renew our reverence for the Eucharist. During Holy Week, we remember that Christ instituted this sacrament on Holy Thursday, offering us a way to remain in union with Him. Let us take this opportunity to attend Mass regularly, spend time in Eucharistic adoration, and reflect on the mystery of Christ’s presence in the Blessed Sacrament.
In this season of penance and reflection, may our devotion to the Eucharist strengthen our commitment to living as true disciples of Christ, leading us to the joy of Easter and the Resurrection.
O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Lord Jesus, You have given Yourself to us in the Eucharist. May we receive You with reverence and love, and let Your grace transform us always. Amen 🙏🏽
https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12540
PRAYER INTENTIONS: As we continue to celebrate the joy of the Resurrection, on this Sunday of Divine Mercy, let us pray for hearts open to God’s infinite mercy, that we may be instruments of His compassion in a wounded world. Through the intercession of Saint Zita of Lucca, may we grow in humble service, finding Christ in daily acts of charity and perseverance. Through the maternal care of Our Lady of Montserrat, may we seek deeper trust in God’s providence and courageously respond to His call. We pray for all who are burdened by doubt and fear, asking that, like Thomas, they may encounter the Risen Lord and find renewed faith. We lift up all workers, especially those in hidden or humble jobs, that they may be honored for their dignity and dedication. May the Church, strengthened by the Holy Spirit, be a visible sign of Christ’s healing power to the nations. Amen. 🙏🏽
LET US PRAY:
Most Merciful Lord, I desire to receive the superabundance of Your Mercy poured forth from Heaven today. Please open my heart so that I will turn to You in my need. I am a sinner, dear Lord, but for that reason I am in most need of You in my life. Help me to trust in You with all my might. Jesus, I do trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽
Merciful Father, on this day when we celebrate the victory of Your Divine Mercy, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude and hope. You sent Your Son to breathe peace into our fears and to heal our wounds with His love. Strengthen our faith as You strengthened Thomas; help us to believe even when we do not see. Through the example of Saint Zita, teach us to serve with patience and unwavering devotion, finding You in the simplest of tasks. Under the loving gaze of Our Lady of Montserrat, draw us ever closer to Your heart, trusting in Your perfect will. Make us heralds of mercy, witnesses of the Resurrection, and laborers in Your vineyard. Through Christ our Lord. Amen 🙏🏽
Save us, Savior of the world. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Our Lady of Montserrat, Saint Joseph,and Saint Zita ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day and the immeasurable love shown through His Son, our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. As we continue to rejoice in the glory of the Resurrection, may our hearts remain open to the peace and hope that flow from His victory over sin and death. During this joyful Easter season, we pray that our loving Savior will deepen our faith and draw us closer to the mystery of His Passion, death, and Resurrection. May we walk in the light of His risen life, renewed in spirit and overflowing with grace. Praying for us all and our loved ones today and we pray for journey mercies for all those traveling during this Easter season. May this Sunday of Divine Mercy be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ is truly risen! Alleluia! Have a blessed, safe and grace-filled Sunday and week 🙏🏽
Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation | https://gliopiepehe.org
Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation | Global Missons Now Awards |
Holy Mass & Rosary for the Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis – April 27, 2025
Watch “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | April 27, 2025 |
Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | April 27, 2025 |
Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” |