Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary on the Fifth Week of Lent | April 10, 2025 on EWTN” |
Watch “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | April 10, 2025 |
Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | April 10, 2025 |
Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” |
Day Thirty-Two: The Fruit of Obedience
Thursday, Fifth Week of Lent
Scripture Passage:
“I solemnly assure you, if a man is true to my word, he shall never see death.” – John 8:51
Opening Reflection:
Obedience to Christ is not just about following rules; it’s about remaining in His love and experiencing the fullness of life. In today’s Gospel, Jesus promises that those who follow His teachings will never see death. This speaks not only to eternal life, but also to the life of joy, peace, and fulfillment that obedience brings us in the here and now. True freedom and joy come from aligning ourselves with God’s will, trusting that His commands are for our ultimate good.
Meditative Reflection:
Jesus’ words challenge us to reframe how we view obedience. Far from being a burden, obedience is the pathway to life and fulfillment. The world often tells us that following rules or submitting to authority limits our freedom. But in the Kingdom of God, obedience is the very thing that sets us free. When we obey Christ, we remain in His love, and His joy becomes our joy. This deep, divine joy flows from our unity with Him, which is the fruit of our faithful obedience.
Saint Bonaventure speaks of the passion for souls, saying that when we no longer burn with love and concern for others, many will suffer from the cold. Our obedience is not just personal it has a communal effect. When we live in obedience to Christ, we share in His love and light, drawing others to Him. Like the Holy Family, our obedience to God’s will becomes the source of strength and hope for others, especially in times of hardship.
Reflection Questions:
Do I view obedience to Christ as a source of freedom or restriction? How can I embrace God’s commandments more fully in my daily life? In what ways has my obedience (or lack of obedience) affected my relationship with God and others?
Lenten Question:
Q: Why is obedience to Christ essential for eternal life?
A: Obedience to Christ is essential because it is the way we remain united to His love. By obeying His word, we open ourselves to receive the fullness of His grace, leading to eternal life. True obedience brings us closer to God and aligns our hearts with His will, resulting in lasting peace and joy.
Lenten Action:
Invite a friend who has been away from Church to come to Mass with you. Participate fully in the liturgy, offering your obedience to Christ as an act of love.
Concluding Prayer:
O Jesus, You perfectly obeyed the will of the Father, and through Your obedience, You brought salvation to the world. Help me to embrace Your commandments with joy and trust, knowing that in them lies the fullness of life. Strengthen my will to follow You faithfully, and grant me the grace to remain in Your love always. Amen.
Resources for Lenten Prayers and Reflections:
Daily Saints and Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Lenten Reflections | EWTN | https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/reflections/lent
Lenten Prayers and Daily Reflections | My Catholic Life | https://mycatholic.life/lent-prayers-reflections/
MEMORIAL OF SAINT FULBERT, BISHOP; SAINT BADEMUS, MARTYR AND SAINT MICHAEL DE LOS SANTOS, TRINITARIAN PRIEST: Today, we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Fulbert, Bishop of Chartres; Saint Bademus, Martyr and Saint Michael de los Santos, Trinitarian Priest. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and the Saints on this feast day, during this Easter season, we humbly pray for the Church and the Clergy, we pray for their protection, safety and well-being, especially during these incredibly challenging times ~ Amen🙏
“Lord Jesus, we pray that St. Fulbert will intercede for our clergy when they need strengthening to make the right decisions. May they always stay true to Church teachings and to You, we pray”… Amen🙏
SAINT FULBERT, BISHOP: St. Fulbert was Bishop of Chartres who rebult the cathedral of Chartres when it was burnt down in 1020. He defended monasticism and orthodoxy and his legacy also includes a collection of letters, poems, hymns and sermons; many celebrating the veneration of the Blessed Virgin Mary as our Mother. St. Fulbert was born in Italy, of humble parentage, he went to school in Rheims, France, and conducted himself so brilliantly that when his mathematics and philosophy teacher, Gerbert, became Pope Sylvester II, he received a post at Rome. Later, he returned to France and was appointed chancellor of Chartres, overseeing the cathedral schools of the diocese in this capacity. St. Fulbert labored diligently and long and succeeded in making these schools the greatest educational center in France, frequented by students from Germany, Italy, and England. He was regarded as another Socrates and Plato, a bulwark against the rationalizing temper of his day.
Later, St. Fulbert became Bishop of Chartres, despite his protestations of unworthiness. His influence was vast in this position, since he became the recognized oracle of the spiritual and temporal leaders of France in addition to maintaining control of the cathedral schools. Yet he never allowed external affairs to interfere with the task of caring for his diocese. He preached regularly at the cathedral and strove to spread instruction throughout his diocese. This great Saint had a deep devotion to Mary and composed several hymns in her honor. He is also responsible for the beautiful Easter hymn, You Choirs of New Jerusalem. After an episcopate of nearly twenty-two years, St. Fulbert died on April 10, 1029.
PRAYER: God, Light and Shepherd of souls, You established St. Fulbert as Bishop in Your Church to feed flock by his word and form it by his example. Help us through his intercession to keep the Faith he thought by his word and follow the way he showed by his example. Amen. Saint Fulbert, pray for us that we may become worthy of the promises of Jesus Christ.🙏
SAINT BADEMUS, MARTYR: St. Bademus (d. 376 A.D.) was originally a wealthy and noble citizen of Bethlapeta in Persia. Desiring to give himself completely to God, he gave away his wealth and possessions to follow Christ, then gave the greater part of the proceeds to the poor. He reserved just enough to found a monastery near that city, to which he retired with several other persons, and then governed it with great sanctity and led a life of prayer and austerity. He conducted his religious in the paths of perfection with sweetness, prudence, and charity. To crown his virtue, God permitted him, with seven of his monks, to be apprehended by the followers of King Sapor in the thirty-sixth year of that king’s persecution. He lay four months in a dungeon, loaded with chains, and during this lingering martyrdom received every day a cruel flagellation. But he triumphed over his torments by the patience and joy with which he suffered them for Christ. At the same time a prince named Nersan, who was a Christian, was cast into prison and his goods confiscated because he refused to adore the sun. At first he seemed resolute, but at the sight of tortures his constancy failed him, and he promised to conform if he could be delivered. The king, to test whether his change was sincere, ordered Bademus to be brought where Nersan was kept in the royal palace, and sent word to Nersan that if he would slay the abbot, he would be restored to his liberty and former dignities. The apostate accepted the condition; a sword was put into his hand, and he advanced to plunge it into the breast of the abbot. But being seized with a sudden terror, he stopped short, and remained some time unable to lift up his arm to strike; he had neither courage to repent, nor heart to accomplish his crime.
Finally he hardened himself and continued with a trembling hand to aim at the martyr’s sides. Fear, shame, remorse, and respect made his strokes forceless and unsteady; and so great was the number of his victim’s wounds that the bystanders were in admiration at his invincible patience. Saint Bademus reproached his executioner, saying, What will you do on the day when you will have to render an account of your actions, and hear the sentence of your condemnation? I offer myself willingly to die for the glory of my Lord Jesus Christ, but I would prefer to die by another hand than yours! The pagans themselves were horrified at the cruelty of the king, the long martyrdom, and the perfidious acts of the apostate. Saint Bademus suffered and died on the 10th of April in the year 376. His body was cast out of the city, but secretly carried away and interred by the Christians. A short time afterwards Nersan fell into public disgrace, and perished by the sword. The disciples of the Saint were released from their chains four years later, at the death of King Sapor.
Saint Bademus, Martyr ~ Pray for us🙏
SAINT MICHAEL DE LOS SANTOS, TRINITARIAN PRIEST: Saint Michael (1591-1624) sometimes called Michael of the Saints, was a Discalced Trinitarian born on September 29, 1591; Vic, Catalonia, Kingdom of Spain of parents notable both for their piety and their probity. Their son from his early childhood made a vow of perpetual chastity; his father, when he heard of it, one day with a smile proposed to him, to test him, a fine marriage. The child began to weep and hurried to an altar of the Blessed Virgin to renew his vow. At the age of six he fled to a cave to meditate on the Passion of Our Lord. When his father sent out a search party, he was obliged to return, but continued to live only for heaven, keeping himself constantly in the presence of God. He chose Saint Francis of Assisi for his model and practiced extreme mortifications to imitate Jesus crucified. At the age of twelve he presented himself at the novitiate of the Trinitarians of Barcelona, who admitted him. He made his perpetual vows in 1607, and assisted in the reform of the Order, in progress at that time. He never ceased to practice the primitive rule of the Institute. Saint Michael never had more than one tunic; beneath it he wore rude hair shirts. He practiced a perpetual fast and imposed constant disciplines on his flesh.
He was ordained a priest, and then it was at the altar that he received the most signal favors from heaven and inspired in those in attendance a most remarkable devotion. Twice Saint Michael was named Superior of the houses where he resided, yet he never became inflated with pride; on the contrary he believed himself worse than the demons. It seemed that heaven envied the earth in the possession of this Saint; he died at the age of thirty-three on April 10, 1624; Valladolid, Old Castile, Kingdom of Spain. Miracles followed at his tomb, and he was Canonized on June 8, 1862, Rome by Pope Pius IX
Saint Michael de los Santos, Trinitarian Priest ~ Pray for us🙏
MEMORIAL OF SAINT GAUCHERIUS, ABBOT; SAINT DEMETRIUS, MARTYR AND BLESSED KATARZYNA FARON, POLISH MARTYR: Today, we celebrate the Memorial of Saints Gaucherius, Abbot (Patron Saint of Wood Cutters); Saint Demetrius, Martyr (St. Demetrius is revered as the patron saint of Thessaloniki and was also venerated patron saint of agriculture, peasants and shepherds) and Blessed Katarzyna Celestyna Faron, Polish Martyr. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and the Saints on this feast day, we humbly pray for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners and for all Christians during this season of Lent. We also pray for all farmers, for their health, safety and well-being, especially during these incredibly challenging times.🙏
SAINT GAUCHERIUS, ABBOT: St. Gaucherius was also known as Walter, abbot-founder and friend of St. Stephen of Grandmont. He founded St. John’s Monastery at Aureilfor and a convent for women. Saint Gaucherius, Abbot, started attracting disciples even though he was only eighteen. St. Gaucherius was born in Meulan-sur-Seine, France to the northwest of Paris, and he received a good classical Christian education and became a priest. However he felt a deep longing for solitude and a life more radically centered on God. At the age of eighteen he gave up the world and retired to Aureil to lead a solitary life. He thereupon devoted his life to God as a hermit and began with his friend, Germond, to reside in the area of Limoges. Alone and forgotten by the world, St. Gaucherius and Germond grew in holiness. Their example attracted others who built hermitages near to theirs.
Finally St. Gaucherius decided to build a monastery at Aureil and to establish two communities, one for men, the other for women, both under the rule of St. Augustine. The passage of an eremitical settlement into the canonical life was one of the principal ways through which the canons regular grew in the 11th and 12th Century. The community of Aureil is typical of these kinds of Ordo Novus canons regular. Thereafter he lived with his companions, being for all a model of sanctity. His companions and disciples who trained in this community include St. Lambert of Angouleme and St. Faucherus as well as the founder of Grandmont monastery, St. Stephen Muret. St. Gaucherius died in 1140 at the age of 80 years and was canonized in 1194 by Pope Celestine III. He’s the Patron Saint of Wood Cutters.
PRAYER: Lord, amid the things of this world, let us be wholeheartedly committed to heavenly things in imitation of the example of evangelical perfection You have given us in St. Gaucherius the Abbot. Amen🙏
SAINT DEMETRIUS, MARTYR: St. Demetrius was martyred during the persecution of Diocletian (3rd/4th century) at Sirmium in Dalmatia. Saint Demetrius, Martyr, remained fervent in faith and works for Christ, encouraging many Christians to endure persecution and even bringing many pagans to the faith. Afterward a prefect of Illyria named Leontius introduced his cult to Salonika, transferred some of his relic there, and built a temple in his honor in both cities. From the 5th century on, Salonika was the great center of the cult of St. Demetrius, and his imposing church was destroyed only in 1917.
According to a legendary history, St. Demetrius was a citizen of Salonika who was arrested for proclaiming the Faith. He was then slain without a trial as he was being detained in a room of the public baths. Other accounts make him a proconsul and a warrior-Saint, and this latter capacity he almost equaled the popularity of the great legendary figure St. George. Both of these Saints were adopted as patrons by the crusaders and a story says that they were seen in their ranks at the Battle of Antioch in 1098. St. Demetrius is still very popular in the East, and his feast is celebrated with solemnity in the Eastern Liturgy. St. Demetrius is revered as the Patron Saint of Thessaloniki and was also venerated Patron Saint of agriculture, peasants and shepherds.
PRAYER: Almighty and ever-living God, you enabled St. Demetrius to fight for justice even unto death. Through his help, grant that we may tolerate all adversity and hasten with all our might to You Who alone are life. Amen🙏
BLESSED KATARZYNA FARON, POLISH MARTYR: Bl. Katarzyna Celestyna (Catherine Celestine) Faron (1913-1944) was born in Zabrzez, Poland on April 24, 1913. At the age of five she was orphaned and raised by pious, childless relatives. From childhood she was distinguished by her love of Our Lord Jesus and devotion to the Blessed Mother and Saint Thérèse, the Little Flower. Desiring the religious life, she entered the Congregation of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate in 1930 at the age of Seventeen. She adopted the name Celestyna. On September 15, 1938, she took perpetual vows. She served in the community as a kindergarten teacher and catechist. After the breakout of World War II she became the leader of her religious house, ran an orphanage, and helped the poor. She was eventually arrested by the Gestapo on February 19, 1942 and charged with conspiracy against the Nazis. Sister Celestyna was imprisoned in Jaslo and Tarnów, Poland, before being sent to the Auschwitz concentration camp on the feast of Epiphany in 1943, where she was assigned to manual labor digging ditches. She praised God in all her suffering and resigned herself to following His will.
Due to the poor conditions she suffered from typhoid fever, pulmonary tuberculosis, and recurrent hemorrhages. Because she completed the nine First Fridays devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, she trusted that she wouldn’t die without Holy Communion, as Our Lord promised. On December 8, 1943, the feast of the Immaculate Conception, she received Holy Communion as viaticum which was secretly brought to the camp by a prisoner priest. While on her deathbed she prayed intensely for others and for various intentions on a rosary made out of bread crumbs. According to witnesses she offered up her suffering for the conversion of a Catholic bishop, Władysław Faron, who had fallen away from the Church. The bishop eventually returned to the true Faith, Catholic Church. Bl. Katarzyn finally died from her illness on Easter Sunday morning on April 9, 1944. Her body was burned in the camps crematorium. On June 13, 1999, Sister Celestyna was beatified by Saint John Paul II in Warsaw, Poland as one of the group of 108 Polish Catholic Martyrs killed during World War II by Nazi Germany. Blessed Celestyna calls us particularly to renew the ecclesial consciousness resulting from personal union with Christ. Her feast day is April 9th.
PRAYER: O God, who willed your Son to submit for our sake to the yoke of the Cross, so that you might drive from us the power of the enemy, grant us, your servants, to attain the grace of the resurrection. 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. Blessed Katarzyna Faron, Polish Martyr ~ Pray for us🙏
FIFTH WEEK OF LENT
SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: FEAST DAY ~ APRIL 9, 2025
MEMORIAL OF SAINT GAUCHERIUS, ABBOT; SAINT DEMETRIUS, MARTYR AND BLESSED KATARZYNA FARON, POLISH MARTYR | Lives of the Saints | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family, and Happy Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Lent!
Today, as we walk through the sacred path of Lent, we commemorate three heroic witnesses of Christ: Saint Gaucherius, Abbot (Patron Saint of Wood Cutters); Saint Demetrius, Martyr (Patron Saint of Thessaloniki, agriculture, peasants, and shepherds); and Blessed Katarzyna Celestyna Faron, Polish Martyr. Their lives of solitude, courage, and self-offering in the face of suffering reflect the heart of the Gospel. Through their intercession and the loving care of our Blessed Mother Mary, we pray for persecuted Christians, the conversion of sinners, and for all who journey through this Lenten season seeking holiness. We especially lift up all farmers and agricultural workers that God may bless their efforts, strengthen them in trials, and provide for their needs. Amen. 🙏🏽
Saint Gaucherius, Saint Demetrius, and Blessed Katarzyna Faron ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
We thank God for the gift of life and for the gift of this day. May this season of Lent bring renewal in faith, deepening our journey through Lent and drawing us closer to Christ. May God’s grace guide and strengthen us every day, and may His grace and mercy be with us all during this season of our Lenten journey.🙏🏽
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary on EWTN” | “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/2025/04/09/catholic-daily-mass-36/
DAY 31: LENTEN PRAYERS AND REFLECTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/09/day-31-lenten-prayers-and-reflections/
DAILY REFLECTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Daily Saints, Holy Mass, Holy Rosary, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Scripture Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/reflections/
LENT: | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/03/03/lent/
STATIONS OF THE CROSS | A JOURNEY WITH CHRIST | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/03/03/stations-of-the-cross/
THE LITURGICAL YEAR IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/12/03/the-liturgical-year-in-the-catholic-church/
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/
PRAYER FOR POPE FRANCIS
“Loving God, we thank you for the unwavering faith and leadership of Pope Francis. As he recovers from his hospitalization, we humbly ask for your healing touch upon his body, your peace upon his mind, and your comfort for his spirit. Grant him strength, renewed energy, and a continued ability to serve your flock with compassion and wisdom. We entrust him to your loving care, and we pray that he may soon be restored to good health, if it be your will. Through Christ our Lord, Amen”🙏🏽
On this special feast day, as we continue our Lenten journey, 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 and celebrate their memorial anniversary today. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, and we continue to pray for the repose of the gentle souls of 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 🙏🏽
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, from 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/
A PRAYER TO WALK HUMBLY THROUGH LENT: Father, In Micah 6:8, You say, “O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Today we choose to walk humbly with You. We choose to live by Your Holy Spirit and to follow Your lead. Help us to hear You clearly, for we do not want to walk by pride or self-sufficiency, we want to walk with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen 🙏🏽
God of goodness and mercy, hear my prayer as I begin this Lenten journey with you. Let me be honest with myself as I look into my heart and soul, noticing the times I turn away from you. Guide me as I humbly seek to repent and return to your love. May humility guide my efforts to be reconciled with you and live forever in your abundant grace. Transform me this Lent, heavenly Father. Give me the strength to commit myself to grow closer to you each day. Amen 🙏🏽
LENTEN FAST AND ABSTINENCE (Lenten Fast and Abstinence regulations from the USCCB): Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics. In addition, Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence.
For members of the Latin Catholic Church, the norms on fasting are obligatory from age 18 until age 59. When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal. The norms concerning abstinence from meat are binding upon members of the Latin Catholic Church from age 14 onwards
Members of the Eastern Catholic Churches are to observe the particular law of their own sui iuris Church. If possible, the fast on Good Friday is continued until the Easter Vigil (on Holy Saturday night) as the “paschal fast” to honor the suffering and death of the Lord Jesus, and to prepare ourselves to share more fully and to celebrate more readily His Resurrection. 🙏🏽
SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: MEMORIAL OF SAINT GAUCHERIUS, ABBOT; SAINT DEMETRIUS, MARTYR AND BLESSED KATARZYNA FARON, POLISH MARTYR – FEAST DAY: APRIL 9TH: Today, as we walk through the sacred path of Lent, we commemorate three heroic witnesses of Christ: Saint Gaucherius, Abbot (Patron Saint of Wood Cutters); Saint Demetrius, Martyr (Patron Saint of Thessaloniki, agriculture, peasants, and shepherds); and Blessed Katarzyna Celestyna Faron, Polish Martyr. Their lives of solitude, courage, and self-offering in the face of suffering reflect the heart of the Gospel. Through their intercession and the loving care of our Blessed Mother Mary, we pray for persecuted Christians, the conversion of sinners, and for all who journey through this Lenten season seeking holiness. We especially lift up all farmers and agricultural workers that God may bless their efforts, strengthen them in trials, and provide for their needs. Amen. 🙏🏽
Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | April 9th | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Julie Billiart, Saint Perpetuus, and Franciscan Missionary | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/08/saints-of-the-day-april-9th/ )
SAINT GAUCHERIUS, ABBOT: Born in Meulan-sur-Seine, France in 1060, Gaucherius (also known as Walter) received a solid Christian education and was ordained a priest. Yet his heart longed for something deeper a life completely given to God. At just eighteen, he withdrew from worldly comforts and chose the solitude of the forest near Limoges to live as a hermit with his friend Germond. Their humble and holy example soon attracted others, forming a growing eremitical community. To guide this flourishing group, Saint Gaucherius founded St. John’s Monastery at Aureil and a convent for women, both under the Rule of Saint Augustine. His model of sanctity shaped future saints like Saint Lambert of Angouleme, Saint Faucherus, and Saint Stephen of Muret, founder of the Grandmont monastery. Gaucherius died around the year 1140 and was canonized in 1194 by Pope Celestine III. He continues to inspire those drawn to simplicity, solitude, and service to God.
PRAYER: Lord God, through the life of Saint Gaucherius, You have shown the beauty of detachment from the world and complete trust in You. Help us to seek solitude with You amid life’s noise, and to live as faithful disciples, walking the narrow path of holiness.
Saint Gaucherius, pray for us. 🙏🏽
SAINT DEMETRIUS, MARTYR: Saint Demetrius, believed to have been martyred during the Diocletian persecution in the early 4th century, is one of the most beloved saints in the Eastern Church. Though accounts of his life vary, many traditions hold that he was either a proconsul or a soldier in Salonika (Thessaloniki), who fearlessly proclaimed his Christian faith. Arrested and confined to a bathhouse, he was slain without trial for his steadfast witness to Christ. His veneration quickly spread, and churches were built in his honor in Salonika and Sirmium. Demetrius was especially loved by Christian soldiers and peasants. He was even seen as a heavenly protector of crusaders during the Battle of Antioch in 1098. Today, his feast is solemnly celebrated in the Eastern Church, and his life remains a symbol of fearless faith and martyrdom.
PRAYER: Almighty God, You strengthened Saint Demetrius to stand firm in the face of persecution. Through his powerful intercession, grant us courage to endure trials and remain faithful to Your truth, even to the point of sacrifice.
Saint Demetrius, pray for us. 🙏🏽
BLESSED KATARZYNA (CELESTYNA) FARON, POLISH MARTYR: Born in 1913 in Zabrzez, Poland, Katarzyna Faron was orphaned at age five and raised by devout relatives. Her early love for Jesus and the Virgin Mary blossomed into a religious vocation, and she joined the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate, taking the name Sister Celestyna. A devoted catechist and kindergarten teacher, she led her community’s house and ran an orphanage during WWII. In 1942, she was arrested by the Gestapo for suspected anti-Nazi activity. After being held in Polish prisons, she was deported to Auschwitz in 1943, where she was forced to perform grueling labor. Despite severe illness typhoid, tuberculosis, and hemorrhage she never ceased praying. On December 8, 1943, the feast of the Immaculate Conception, she received Holy Communion secretly from a fellow prisoner priest.
With heroic faith, she offered her suffering for the conversion of a fallen-away bishop who later returned to the Church. On Easter Sunday, April 9, 1944, Sister Celestyna died and was cremated. She was beatified by Saint John Paul II on June 13, 1999, as one of the 108 Polish Martyrs of World War II.
PRAYER: O God of mercy and love, You raised Blessed Katarzyna Celestyna Faron as a witness of hope amidst suffering. Teach us to offer our pain and trials for the salvation of souls. Strengthen persecuted Christians and grant us unwavering faith.
Blessed Katarzyna Faron, pray for us. 🙏🏽
Saint Gaucherius, Saint Demetrius, and Blessed Katarzyna Faron ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:
Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Lent | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading
Today’s Bible Readings: Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Lent | Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Reading 1, Daniel 3:14-20, 91-92, 95
Responsorial Psalm, Daniel 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 56
Gospel, John 8:31-42
Gospel Reading ~ John 8:31-42
“If the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed”
“Jesus said to those Jews who believed in him, “If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How can you say, ‘You will become free’?” Jesus answered them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave of sin. A slave does not remain in a household forever, but a son always remains. So if the Son frees you, then you will truly be free. I know that you are descendants of Abraham. But you are trying to kill me, because my word has no room among you. I tell you what I have seen in the Father’s presence; then do what you have heard from the Father.” They answered and said to him, “Our father is Abraham.” Jesus said to them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would be doing the works of Abraham. But now you are trying to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God; Abraham did not do this. You are doing the works of your father!” So they said to him, “We were not born of fornication. We have one Father, God.” Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and am here; I did not come on my own, but he sent me.”
In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus speaks of Himself as the source of true freedom. He says, ‘if you make my word your home… you will learn the truth and the truth will make you free’, and again, ‘if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed’. Some people see religion, and Christianity in particular, as a threat to freedom, as undermining of human freedom. Yet Jesus declares in the Gospel reading today that if we make His word our home we will be free, even in these times when so much of our freedom is curtailed. If we allow our lives to be shaped by the word of Jesus we will experience what Paul in his letter to the Romans calls ‘the glorious freedom of the children of God’. If we allow the Lord’s word to shape our lives we will begin to love one another as the Lord has loved us and, then, we will be truly free with the freedom of the Holy Spirit. In the teaching of Jesus and in the New Testament as a whole, the free person is the loving person, the person who is free to love as Jesus loved. Paul declares in his second letter to the Corinthians, ‘where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom’, and the fruit of the Spirit is love. Jesus was the freest person who ever lived, even when His freedom was taken from Him in the hour of His passion and death, because He was the most loving person, the fullest revelation of God’s love. He calls us to share in His freedom through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Reflecting on today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks about the liberating power of truth. He tells the Jews who believed in Him that by remaining in His word, they will come to know the truth and this truth will set them free. Yet, His listeners do not understand, claiming they are already free because they are descendants of Abraham. Jesus gently but firmly redirects their attention, revealing that true slavery is not political or physical, but spiritual—the slavery of sin. Freedom is not found in ancestry, heritage, or even religious practice, but in the saving relationship with Christ, the Son who alone can free us. Jesus then draws a sharp distinction between being children of Abraham and acting in accordance with Abraham’s faith. He exposes the inner contradiction of those who claim religious identity but reject the truth of God’s presence in Him. This passage challenges us: Do we merely profess belief, or do we remain in His word and allow it to transform our lives? Remaining in Jesus’ word is not passive it’s a continuous choice to follow the path of discipleship, even when it costs us comfort, pride, or control. It is in this obedient love that we find true freedom.
In our first reading today from the Book of Daniel is the story of three young men of Israel, Azariah, Mishael and Hananiah, known as Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who remained faithful to the God of Israel, even though threatened with the loss of their lives unless they abandoned their faith. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were preserved alive by God, after they had been thrown into the fiery furnace by King Nebuchadnezzar. The three men walked about freely in the fiery furnace, completely unharmed by the fire, in the company of a fourth man who looked ‘like a son of the gods’ and the king and everyone present witnessed the great miracle, and saw the Angel of God that God sent to safeguard them as the mysterious fourth man present in the fire with them. The Lord protected the three of them for their faith in Him and to show Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon the futility of his hubris, pride and ego. In the end, God rescued His faithful ones and those who pride themselves in their own power and glory were ashamed and put down. This story emerged from a time at the beginning of the second century before Christ when Jews were being persecuted for refusing to worship the gods of Greece. It was intended to inspire and give courage to the author’s contemporaries. Here were young men who had the freedom to remain faithful to God and the ways of God, in spite of the enormous pressure on them to do otherwise. Even while they were imprisoned in the fiery furnace, they remained free, free to live according to God’s will as revealed in God’s laws or God’s word. This is the kind of freedom that Jesus refers to in today’s Gospel reading. As God’s Word in human form, the freedom to live according to God’s will is now the freedom to live by Jesus’ word. As Jesus says in the Gospel reading, ‘if you make my word your home you will indeed be my disciples, you will learn the truth and the truth will make you free’.
Reflecting on today’s first reading, the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from the Book of Daniel stands as a powerful witness of courageous faith in the face of persecution. These three young men refused to bow to King Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image, choosing fidelity to the one true God over submission to a tyrannical decree. Their trust in God was so complete that they were willing to be thrown into the blazing furnace rather than betray Him. And even more striking is their statement: “Even if He does not save us, we will not serve your god.” This is the essence of faith not only believing that God can save, but being willing to remain faithful even if He does not intervene in the way we hope. God did, indeed, deliver them and not only were they unharmed, but a fourth figure appeared with them in the fire, a sign of God’s abiding presence in the midst of trial. This reminds us that when we are faithful to God, we are never alone in our sufferings. Like these three holy men, we are called to remain steadfast in truth, trusting that God walks with us through the fire.
Reflecting on our Responsorial Psalm, the psalm today continues the theme of praise and exaltation of God’s majesty. Despite being in the fire, the three men praised God, recognizing His greatness in all places His throne, His temple, even the firmament of heaven. This litany of blessings reminds us to always lift our hearts in praise, especially when facing trials. Our God is worthy of glory and praise forever.
Are there areas in my life where I have allowed sin to make me a slave whether through habits, fears, or lies I believe? Do I truly remain in Christ’s word by reading, meditating, and living it daily? Am I willing to stand firm in faith like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, even when the world demands compromise? Let us carry today’s message deep in our hearts: freedom comes not from status or circumstances, but from living in the truth of Jesus Christ. May we remain in His word and walk with the confidence that He is with us, even in the fire. Like the three young men in Daniel, may we shine with the light of unwavering faith.
As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we are all called to follow the Lord and to remember His providence and love, the compassion which He has shown to each and every one of us that we will be willing to open ourselves to Him, opening our hearts and minds so that we may listen to the words that our Lord and Father speak to us in the depth of our hearts and minds. Let us all therefore seek the Lord with renewed faith and desire to love Him from now on. Let us humble ourselves before Him and not be like those who kept their prideful ways, like the king of Babylon or the people at the time of the Lord Jesus, who refused to believe in God and His truth, and even persecuted the faithful. Instead, we should be inspired by the faith of Azariah, Mishael and Hananiah, known as Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego and remain firmly strong in our faith and dedication to God from now and always. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us the grace during this season of Lent and always to remain faithful and may He bless us all and be with us all, through our journey of faith in life. Amen 🙏🏽
Lord Jesus, You are the Truth that sets us free. Help us to remain in Your word and to trust in Your presence, especially when we are tested. May we have the courage to stand for You like the three faithful men in Babylon, and the humility to be taught by Your Spirit. Strengthen our faith, and let us be bold in witnessing Your love to the world. Amen 🙏🏽
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 this Lenten season and always. Amen 🙏🏽
https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12540
PRAYER INTENTIONS: We pray for all who are enslaved by sin, fear, or falsehood, that they may encounter the liberating truth of Jesus and find the courage to remain in His word each day. May the example of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego strengthen us to stand firm in faith even when tested by fire. Through the intercession of Saint Gaucherius, may all pastors, religious, and those called to contemplative or missionary life be renewed in their zeal to live and preach the Gospel in purity of heart. We pray for those who seek silence, solitude, and holiness, that they may, like him, inspire communities centered on Christ. We ask for the strength to endure suffering with love, as Saint Demetrius did in laying down his life for Christ. May persecuted Christians around the world be upheld in their faith and protected in God’s mercy. We remember the quiet heroism of Blessed Katarzyna Faron, who embraced martyrdom in the darkness of a concentration camp. May her intercession bring hope and perseverance to those enduring hardship, and may her life remind us that no suffering is hidden from God.
May we live not as slaves to sin but as free children of God, rooted in truth, radiant in faith, and confident that Christ walks with us even in the fire. Amen 🙏🏽
LET US PRAY:
God of all Truth, Your Word is liberating, transforming and fills us with hope. May I turn my mind to You and to Your holy Word so that I may know the Truth as You speak it and allow that transforming Truth to set me free. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽
Lord Jesus, You are the Truth that sets us free. You invite us to remain in Your word and to walk in Your light, yet so often we cling to false securities. Give us hearts that are humble enough to be taught, bold enough to stand for what is right, and faithful enough to follow You wherever You lead. Help us to remain in Your truth when we are tempted, to remember Your presence when we feel alone, and to praise You like the three faithful men even in the furnace. May we live with courageous faith like Saint Demetrius, with humble devotion like Blessed Katarzyna Faron, and with the contemplative spirit of Saint Gaucherius, always seeking You above all else. Lord, make us free—free from fear, from sin, from the lies we believe. Let us be Your witnesses in a world hungry for truth. Jesus, we trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽
Save us, Savior of the world. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Joseph, Saint Gaucherius, Saint Demetrius, and Blessed Katarzyna Faron ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
Thanking God for the gift of this day and praying for us all during this season of Lent, let us be renewed by prayer, fasting, and giving to the poor. We pray for justice, peace, love and unity in our families and our world. May this Lenten season deepen our trust in God’s providence and open our hearts to His transforming grace. May God keep us all safe and well during these challenging times and may this season of Lent bring us all true salvation in Christ as we remain united in peace, love and faith. Have a blessed, safe and grace-filled and fruitful Fifth Week of Lent. Amen 🙏🏽
Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Foundation | https://gliopiepehe.org
Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation |
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary on the Fifth Week of Lent | April 9, 2025 on EWTN” |
Watch “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | April 9, 2025 |
Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | April 9, 2025 |
Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” |
Day Thirty-One: Firmly Connected to Christ
Wednesday, Fifth Week of Lent
Scripture Passage:
“If you live according to my teaching, you are truly my disciples.” – John 8:31
Opening Reflection:
To be a disciple of Christ means more than just believing in Him—it means following His teachings and letting His Word shape our entire way of life. Discipleship is about abiding in Jesus, allowing His truth to become the foundation of our choices, our relationships, and our purpose.
Meditative Reflection:
Jesus tells us, “I am the vine, you are the branches,” reminding us that a life disconnected from Him is a life that bears no lasting fruit. We often strive on our own, hoping to be good or do good, but without Christ, even our best intentions fall short. Just like a branch cannot survive apart from the vine, our spiritual lives wither when we stop depending on Him for strength, direction, and purpose.
Saint Augustine beautifully captures this longing for divine connection when he cries, “Late have I loved you, O Beauty ever ancient, ever new.” He speaks of how God broke through his deafness and blindness, igniting a hunger and thirst for something deeper. That same yearning lies within each of us. Christ is not only the way we find our peace, strength, and identity in Him. To remain in Him is to remain rooted in love, nourished by truth, and empowered to bear fruit that endures.
Reflection Questions:
Do I live daily as a disciple, drawing life from Christ? What does the fruit of my life say about my connection to Him? Have I allowed anything to separate me from the Vine?
Lenten Question:
Q: Why do I need to remain connected to Christ to bear fruit?
A: Because apart from Him, we can do nothing that has eternal value. Jesus is the source of all holiness and love. When we live in union with Him, the Holy Spirit produces fruits in us—love, joy, peace, and more that reveal God’s presence in the world.
Lenten Action:
Surprise someone with an act of kindness today, and silently offer it to Jesus as a fruit of your connection with Him.
Concluding Prayer:
Jesus, You are the Vine, and I am the branch. Help me stay rooted in You so that I may bear fruit for Your Kingdom. Remove anything that blocks Your life-giving grace in me, and strengthen my desire to live as Your faithful disciple. Amen.
Resources for Lenten Prayers and Reflections:
Daily Saints and Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Lenten Reflections | EWTN | https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/reflections/lent
Lenten Prayers and Daily Reflections | My Catholic Life | https://mycatholic.life/lent-prayers-reflections/
FIFTH WEEK OF LENT
SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: FEAST DAY ~ APRIL 8, 2025
MEMORIAL OF SAINT JULIE (JULIA) BILLIART, VIRGIN; SAINT PERPETUUS, BISHOP OF TOURS AND BLESSED MARY ASSUNTA PALLOTTA, FRANCISCAN MISSIONARY | Lives of the Saints | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family, and Happy Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Lent!
Today, as we continue our Lenten journey, we celebrate the lives of three remarkable holy men and women: Saint Julie Billiart, Virgin (Patron Saint of the sick and the poor); Saint Perpetuus, Bishop of Tours (Patron of religious architecture and peace among clergy); and Blessed Mary Assunta Pallotta, Franciscan Missionary (Patroness of purity and missionary zeal). May their lives of service, faith, and sacrifice inspire us to live courageously for Christ. Through the powerful intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and the Saints, we humbly pray especially for the sick, those suffering from chronic conditions, cancers and other terminal illnesses, and the burdens of chronic pain and illness. May God’s healing mercy touch them deeply. We also lift up the poor and marginalized of our world, that through compassionate hands and generous hearts, they may encounter God’s loving care. Amen 🙏🏽
We thank God for the gift of life and for the gift of this day. May this season of Lent bring renewal in faith, deepening our journey through Lent and drawing us closer to Christ. May God’s grace guide and strengthen us every day, and may His grace and mercy be with us all during this season of our Lenten journey. 🙏🏽
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary on EWTN” | “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/2025/04/08/catholic-daily-mass-35/
DAY 30: LENTEN PRAYERS AND REFLECTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/08/day-30-lenten-prayers-and-reflections/
DAILY REFLECTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Daily Saints, Holy Mass, Holy Rosary, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Scripture Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/reflections/
LENT: | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/03/03/lent/
STATIONS OF THE CROSS | A JOURNEY WITH CHRIST | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/03/03/stations-of-the-cross/
THE LITURGICAL YEAR IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/12/03/the-liturgical-year-in-the-catholic-church/
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/
PRAYER FOR POPE FRANCIS
“Loving God, we thank you for the unwavering faith and leadership of Pope Francis. As he recovers from his hospitalization, we humbly ask for your healing touch upon his body, your peace upon his mind, and your comfort for his spirit. Grant him strength, renewed energy, and a continued ability to serve your flock with compassion and wisdom. We entrust him to your loving care, and we pray that he may soon be restored to good health, if it be your will. Through Christ our Lord, Amen”🙏🏽
On this special feast day, as we continue our Lenten journey, 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 and celebrate their memorial anniversary today. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, and we continue to pray for the repose of the gentle souls of 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 🙏🏽
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, from 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/
A PRAYER TO WALK HUMBLY THROUGH LENT: Father, In Micah 6:8, You say, “O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Today we choose to walk humbly with You. We choose to live by Your Holy Spirit and to follow Your lead. Help us to hear You clearly, for we do not want to walk by pride or self-sufficiency, we want to walk with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen 🙏🏽
God of goodness and mercy, hear my prayer as I begin this Lenten journey with you. Let me be honest with myself as I look into my heart and soul, noticing the times I turn away from you. Guide me as I humbly seek to repent and return to your love. May humility guide my efforts to be reconciled with you and live forever in your abundant grace. Transform me this Lent, heavenly Father. Give me the strength to commit myself to grow closer to you each day. Amen 🙏🏽
LENTEN FAST AND ABSTINENCE (Lenten Fast and Abstinence regulations from the USCCB): Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics. In addition, Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence.
For members of the Latin Catholic Church, the norms on fasting are obligatory from age 18 until age 59. When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal. The norms concerning abstinence from meat are binding upon members of the Latin Catholic Church from age 14 onwards
Members of the Eastern Catholic Churches are to observe the particular law of their own sui iuris Church. If possible, the fast on Good Friday is continued until the Easter Vigil (on Holy Saturday night) as the “paschal fast” to honor the suffering and death of the Lord Jesus, and to prepare ourselves to share more fully and to celebrate more readily His Resurrection. 🙏🏽
SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: MEMORIAL OF SAINT JULIE (JULIA) BILLIART, VIRGIN; SAINT PERPETUUS, BISHOP OF TOURS AND BLESSED MARY ASSUNTA PALLOTTA, FRANCISCAN MISSIONARY – FEAST DAY: APRIL 8TH: Today, as we continue our Lenten journey, we celebrate the lives of three remarkable holy men and women: Saint Julie Billiart, Virgin (Patron Saint of the sick and the poor); Saint Perpetuus, Bishop of Tours (Patron of religious architecture and peace among clergy); and Blessed Mary Assunta Pallotta, Franciscan Missionary (Patroness of purity and missionary zeal). May their lives of service, faith, and sacrifice inspire us to live courageously for Christ. Through the powerful intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and the Saints, we humbly pray especially for the sick, those suffering from chronic conditions, cancers and other terminal illnesses, and the burdens of chronic pain and illness. May God’s healing mercy touch them deeply. We also lift up the poor and marginalized of our world, that through compassionate hands and generous hearts, they may encounter God’s loving care. Amen 🙏🏽
Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | April 8th | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Julie Billiart, Saint Perpetuus, and Franciscan Missionary | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/08/saints-of-the-day-april-8th/ )
SAINT JULIE (JULIA) BILLIART, VIRGIN: Born in 1751 in Cuvilly, France, Julie Billiart grew up with a deep love for God and a passion for catechesis. Even as a child, she memorized the catechism and taught it to her playmates. Despite severe physical suffering—paralysis from a traumatic experience at age 22 that left her bedridden for 22 years—she never ceased her mission of evangelization and education. From her bed, she catechized village children, made altar linens, and lived a life of deep contemplative prayer.
During the French Revolution, Julie bravely aided persecuted priests and later founded the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, alongside Françoise Blin de Bourdon and Fr. Joseph Varin. The Institute focused on Christian education for girls and the poor. In 1804, after professing vows, Julie was miraculously cured of her paralysis. She spent the rest of her life founding schools and convents, traveling tirelessly for the mission. Her motto was: “Oh, how good God is!” She died on April 8, 1816, and was canonized in 1969 by Pope Paul VI.
PRAYER: Saint Julie, faithful servant of God and tireless educator of the poor, teach us to see goodness in suffering and to respond with joyful hearts to the needs of others. Intercede for all who are sick and burdened today, that they may be healed in body and spirit. May we, like you, proclaim with conviction: “Oh, how good God is!”
Saint Julie Billiart, pray for us. 🙏🏽
SAINT PERPETUUS, BISHOP OF TOURS: Saint Perpetuus served as Bishop of Tours from 461 to 494. He is remembered for his pastoral zeal, powerful sermons, and love for sacred tradition. Deeply devoted to the saints, he enriched their shrines and promoted veneration of relics. Seeing the influx of pilgrims to the tomb of Saint Martin, he expanded the basilica to accommodate them his efforts were so grand they were compared to Solomon’s Temple.
Perpetuus’ legacy included his last will and testament, where he forgave all debts and bequeathed his possessions to the Church and the poor. He also founded a fund for lamps and sacred vessels and urged his clergy and people to live in unity and holiness. He died on April 8, 494, leaving behind a radiant witness of humility, generosity, and ecclesial devotion.
PRAYER: Saint Perpetuus, wise and generous bishop, you built not only temples of stone but the hearts of your flock. Pray for peace and unity among our Church leaders today. May your example inspire us to be faithful stewards and builders of God’s kingdom.
Saint Perpetuus, pray for us. 🙏🏽
BLESSED MARY ASSUNTA PALLOTTA, FRANCISCAN MISSIONARY: Born in 1878 in Force, Italy, Mary Assunta grew up in poverty, helping her mother support the family after her father left. Her love for Christ in the Eucharist was evident from a young age. She later joined the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, with a firm resolution: “I will become a saint.” She embraced every task with humility, often choosing the lowest place.
In 1904, she journeyed to China as a missionary, where she served in an orphanage. Her life of quiet holiness and deep prayer attracted both Christians and pagans. Less than a year after arriving, she died of typhus at age 27 on April 5, 1905. After her death, her body was found incorrupt. She was beatified by Pope Pius XII in 1954 the first non-martyr missionary sister to be so honored.
PRAYER: Blessed Mary Assunta, young flower of purity and humble laborer in God’s vineyard, help us to love the hidden life and to offer our daily tasks to Jesus with a generous heart. May your missionary zeal inflame our hearts to carry Christ to others, no matter the cost.
Blessed Mary Assunta Pallotta, pray for us. 🙏🏽
Saint Julie Billiart, Saint Perpetuus, Blessed Mary Assunta Pallotta ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽
SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:
Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Lent | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading
Today’s Bible Readings: Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Lent | Tuesday, April 8, 2025
Reading 1, Numbers 21:4-9
Responsorial Psalm, Psalms 102:2-3, 16-18, 19-21
Gospel, John 8:21-30
Gospel Reading ~ John 8:21-30
“When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He”
“Jesus said to the Pharisees: “I am going away and you will look for me, but you will die in your sin. Where I am going you cannot come.” So the Jews said, “He is not going to kill himself, is he, because he said, ‘Where I am going you cannot come’?” He said to them, “You belong to what is below, I belong to what is above. You belong to this world, but I do not belong to this world. That is why I told you that you will die in your sins. For if you do not believe that I AM, you will die in your sins.” So they said to him, “Who are you?” Jesus said to them, “What I told you from the beginning. I have much to say about you in condemnation. But the one who sent me is true, and what I heard from him I tell the world.” They did not realize that he was speaking to them of the Father. So Jesus said to them, “When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will realize that I AM, and that I do nothing on my own, but I say only what the Father taught me. The one who sent me is with me. He has not left me alone, because I always do what is pleasing to him.” Because he spoke this way, many came to believe in him.”
In today’s Gospel reading, the Pharisees with whom Jesus is in conversation ask Him the question, ‘Who are you?’ It is the question of people who are mystified by this mysterious person and who want to understand Him better. In a sense it is the question of each one of us. We never fully grasp Jesus in this life. We never get a full answer to the question ‘Who are you?’ As a result, we have to keep on asking it. In His response to that question, Jesus goes on to say, ‘When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He’. In speaking of His being lifted up, Jesus is looking ahead to the moment when He will be lifted up on the cross, and lifted up in glory. It is then, Jesus seems to be saying, that He will reveal Himself fully. When He appears to be at His weakest on the cross, Jesus will reveal himself as the one in whom God is present and powerfully at work. It is above all when we look upon Jesus crucified, in the light of the resurrection, that we will hear the clearest answer to the question ‘Who are you?’ The answer we hear is, ‘This is God’s love made flesh’. We need the light of Easter to see Jesus clearly. It is only Easter that allows us to see that Jesus’ death was not just one of many examples of an innocent person being put to death by an oppressive power. Easter allows us to see the death of Jesus as the revelation of God’s love for the world, as the triumph of God’s love over human hatred and God’s mercy over human sin, as well as the triumph of God’s life over human death. That is why Easter is the most important feast of the Church’s Liturgical year, and why we spend the seven weeks of Lent preparing to celebrate the seven weeks of Easter. Easter, God’s raising Jesus to new life, lifts much of the veil from Jesus. We believe that the remainder will be lifted in eternity. For now, however, we have the light of Easter by which we can begin to see the true meaning of all that Jesus said and did. Next week is Holy Week. It is a good week to carry in our hearts that question addressed to Jesus ‘Who are you?’ It is a good week to listen to the answer to that question that comes to us as we contemplate the passion and death of Jesus in the light of His resurrection.
Reflecting on today’s Gospel, Jesus reveals a deep truth about His identity and mission. He confronts the Pharisees with the reality that without belief in Him, they will die in their sins. His words carry both a warning and an invitation. Jesus speaks not out of arrogance but from divine authority—He does nothing on His own but communicates only what the Father has taught Him. This passage brings us face-to-face with the gravity of unbelief and the life-giving power of faith in Christ. The phrase “When you lift up the Son of Man” foreshadows His crucifixion, which paradoxically becomes the moment of greatest revelation. In Jesus, we encounter the One who is not only sent by God but is Himself the great “I AM”—the eternal, divine presence who came to save.
Our first reading today, from the Book of Numbers gives an account of what happened during the time of the Exodus of the Israelites from the land of Egypt where they had been enslaved for centuries towards the land of Canaan, the land promised by the Lord for His people to be their own land and dwelling place. It was there during this journey that the Israelites, having frequently and persistently grumbled and disobeyed the Lord, rebelled and complained against Him, despite all the good things that God had done for their sake. They complained that what they had received were the tasteless manna and they were not keen on journeying through the desert as they had done. Many among them had also grumbled saying that they should have remained in Egypt where they would have good food to eat even though they were enslaved by the Egyptians. For their lack of faith and trust in Him, the Lord sent fiery serpents as we have heard, and how many of the people were struck by those fiery serpents and perished in the desert. This represented and showed to us the consequences of sin, which is death, that has struck upon the rebellious people of Israel. By their rebellion and disobedience against God, they have sinned against Him, and for their refusal to trust in God and to love Him wholeheartedly, therefore, they had to endure separation and sundering from the Lord and Master of all life. Yet, when the people sought forgiveness from God and showed repentance for their many sins, God showed His mercy and love, offering the assurance of new life and salvation, by what He had told Moses to do, in crafting a bronze serpent and putting them on a standard, promising that all those who were bitten and gaze upon the bronze serpent would not perish but live. This raising of the bronze serpent of Moses, later on known as Nehushtan, was in fact a prefigurement of Christ’s sacrifice and offering on Calvary, the moment when He bore all of our many sins upon Himself, on His Cross, and was raised on the Cross high for everyone to see. Just like the bronze serpent of Moses raised up high with the figure of the serpent that brought death to the people of God, representing sin and the punishments for sin, the Cross of Christ with the Lord being nailed on it, showed forth the salvation of God through the sins of mankind that He Himself had borne, endured and persevered through, in all the wounds and stripes that He had to face. Yet, amidst all of these, He showed us all His most wonderful love and desire to be reunited with us, by offering us freely His own Most Holy and Precious Body and Blood, broken and shared for all of us to partake, that we may be saved through Him.
Reflecting on today’s first reading, the Israelites in the wilderness mirror our own spiritual journey. Their frustration, complaints, and sin led to suffering. Yet, even in their punishment, God provided a way of healing. The bronze serpent lifted up on a pole is a profound symbol a prefiguration of Christ lifted up on the cross. Just as those who looked at the serpent were healed, those who turn to Jesus in faith find life. This story reminds us that even in our sinfulness, God’s mercy remains available if we humble ourselves and look toward the Savior.
Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, the psalm is a heartfelt cry for God’s attention in distress. It assures us that God hears the groaning of the afflicted and does not despise the prayer of the brokenhearted. The Lord looks down from His holy place, not to condemn, but to restore. In Lent, this becomes a song of hope—we are not abandoned in our struggle. God’s presence brings comfort and promise to those who feel imprisoned by suffering or sin.
Reflecting on today’s readings, where do I see myself in the story of the Israelites impatient, complaining, needing healing? Have I looked up to Christ lately, recognizing Him as the source of mercy and restoration? What holds me back from fully believing that Jesus is “I AM”? Do I take His words to heart and trust that the Father is always near? As we walk through this final stretch of Lent, may we fix our gaze on the cross, where Christ was lifted up for our healing. Let us respond with faith, humility, and obedience knowing that God is with us and that He hears the cry of our hearts.
As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, and as we draw ever closer to the beginning of the Holy Week, we are reminded of the important events that we are going to commemorate and focus on during this upcoming Holy Week and Paschal Triduum. We heard of the great love which the Lord has shown us all that He sent us His Son to bring us all into reconciliation with Him, so that by His ultimate show of the most generous and enduring love of God, He might restore hope to all of us sinners, and bringing us all into the justification of those who have been made worthy by God’s grace. We are reminded as we come towards the end of this Lenten season that by God’s most generous mercy, we have the means to reach Him and to be once again fully beloved and worthy of Him. As we heard from our first reading today, this moment of the Crucifixion and its significance as revealed earlier on through the bronze serpent of Moses served as a reminder for all of us of what we are preparing for during this season of Lent. The Lord has reminded us all of everything which He had done for our sake in bearing the massive burden of our many sins, which should have been ours to suffer from. But the Lord in His infinite and ever enduring love for each and every one of us continue to provide for us and reach out to us, desiring our reunion with Him, through our repentance and our willingness to embrace His love and mercy. And thus, as we gaze upon the Lord on His Cross, we should remember just how fortunate and beloved all of us have been, to be shown this most wonderful love of God manifested to us. Let us therefore deepen our relationship with God and learn to focus our attention and efforts particularly as we are about to enter into the more solemn time of Holy Week, and as we are already in this period of Passiontide, where our attentions are brought to focus on the important events and mysteries that we are about to commemorate during that sacred period and time, leading towards the Paschal Triduum, the most important moments in the history of our salvation, when God Himself offered His own life, His own Most Precious Body and Blood to be the perfect and most worthy offering on our behalf, to bring about our certain reconciliation with our loving God and Father, as He promised us all His constant care and love, giving us opportunities one after another to help us to attain this salvation by His grace, love and mercy. In this remaining time of Lent before the important events of Holy Week and Paschal Triduum, let us all therefore make good use of this time that we have been provided with so that we may come to realise the state of our sinfulness and corruption because of the sins which we have committed in life. Let us not tarry or delay any longer, but strive instead to seek God and His forgiveness as soon as possible, that by His grace and love, we may truly be cleansed and freed from the chains of our sins, that being purified and made clean once again, we may be truly worthy of God and His love, no longer separated from Him due to our sins. Let us realise that sin is truly something that can bring us all a lot of danger, as what the Israelites in the past had experienced, and we should hence turn away from the path of sin, embracing once again God’s love in its fullest. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace and be with us always, and may He strengthen and guide us in our journey towards Him. Amen 🙏🏽
Lord Jesus, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God. You are the One who was lifted up to draw all people to Yourself. Help me to turn my eyes toward You when I am discouraged or wounded by sin. Teach me to trust Your voice and follow the way You revealed from the Father. May my heart be open to believe fully in Your divine love and presence. Amen 🙏🏽
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 this Lenten season and always. Amen 🙏🏽
https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12540
PRAYER INTENTIONS: We pray for the leaders of the Church, that they may, like Saint Julie Billiart, lead with wisdom, patience, and a love for teaching the truth, especially in times of difficulty. Through her intercession, we ask for strength and guidance for all educators and those who shape the minds of the youth, that their work may inspire hearts and transform lives. We lift up all those who dedicate their lives to education, especially those who teach the poor, that they may be empowered by God’s love and grace. We also pray for those who serve in the Church’s mission of defending the faith, like Saint Perpetuus, that their dedication to preserving the truth may continue to strengthen the Church. May the example of Blessed Mary Assunta Pallotta inspire us all to live a life of devotion, humility, and purity, especially in our relationship with the Blessed Virgin Mary. We pray for all those who are struggling, that they may find comfort in God’s presence, just as Saint Julie’s prayer led her to healing. May we all walk in the light of Christ, trusting in His protection and truth. Amen 🙏🏽
LET US PRAY:
My mysterious Lord, Your teaching about Who You are is beyond human reason alone. It is deep, mysterious and glorious beyond all understanding. Please give me the gift of faith so that I may come to know Who You are as I ponder the richness of Your holy Word. I believe in You, dear Lord. Help my unbelief. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽
Lord Jesus, You are the light of the world, and You call us to walk in Your light. Just as You revealed Your divine authority, help us to live in the truth of Your Word and reflect Your light in every part of our lives. We pray for the courage to stand firm in righteousness, just as Saint Julie Billiart did, trusting in Your justice and mercy. Through the intercession of Saint Perpetuus, may all Church leaders be filled with wisdom and love for the people they serve. Help us to learn from the courage and perseverance of Blessed Mary Assunta Pallotta, who served with unwavering devotion. Give us the strength to remain faithful to You, even in times of trial, and to trust in Your light to guide us through the darkness. May our hearts be open to Your truth, and may we bring Your light to all we encounter. Amen 🙏🏽
Save us, Savior of the world. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Joseph, and Saint Julie Billiart, Saint Perpetuus, Blessed Mary Assunta Pallotta ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽
Thanking God for the gift of this day and praying for us all during this season of Lent, let us be renewed by prayer, fasting, and giving to the poor. We pray for justice, peace, love and unity in our families and our world. May this Lenten season deepen our trust in God’s providence and open our hearts to His transforming grace. May God keep us all safe and well during these challenging times and may this season of Lent bring us all true salvation in Christ as we remain united in peace, love and faith. Have a blessed, safe and grace-filled and fruitful Fifth Week of Lent. Amen 🙏🏽
Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Foundation | https://gliopiepehe.org
Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation |
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary on the Fifth Week of Lent | April 8, 2025 on EWTN” |
Watch “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | April 8, 2025 |
Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | April 8, 2025 |
Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” |
MEMORIAL OF SAINT JULIE (JULIA) BILLIART, VIRGIN; SAINT PERPETUUS, BISHOP OF TOURS AND BLESSED MARY ASSUNTA PALLOTTA, FRANCISCAN MISSIONARY – FEAST DAY: On this Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord, as we continue to celebrate the the resurrection of our Lord Jesus, today, we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Julie (Julia) Billiart, Virgin (Patron Saint of the sick and the poor); Saint Perpetuus, Bishop of Tours and Blessed Mary Assunta Pallotta, Franciscan Missionary. 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 who are sick with the coronavirus disease, heart disease, cancer and those who are terminally ill, may God in His infinite grace and mercy grant them His divine healing and intervention. We also pray for the poor and needy in our world. May the Saints pray for us that we will have the strength to never give in to whatever hurdles befall our path.🙏
SAINT JULIE BILLIART, VIRGIN: St. Julie (Julia) Billiart (1751-1816 ) was born on July 12th, 1751, in Cuville, France to a large and prosperous farming family. She was one of woman who founded the “Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur”. She died at the age of nearly 65, on April 8th, 1816. St. Julie was one of the seven children of Jean-Francois Billiart and Marie-Louise-Antoinette Debraine. By the age of seven she knew her catechism by heart, and would gather her playmates together and teach it to them. Her spiritual progress was so remarkable that her parish priest allowed her to make an early first communion at the age of nine, at which time she took a vow of chastity. As a teenager she already had the reputation of being a living saint. In young age her favorite game was playing “school” and when she became older she made her favorite game into her job and taught for real. “She carried on this mission of teaching throughout her life, and the Congregation she founded continues her work.” When financial ruin struck her family, she helped to support her family by teaching at a school and working in the fields with the reapers, when she was 16. Suddenly, in 1773, the St. Julie’s whole life was changed, her father, Jean-Francois Billiart, was attacked and almost murdered by thieves in his own shop. She witnessed the attempted assassination of her father and the shock left her traumatized and largely paralyzed at the age of twenty-two. She remained a bed-ridden invalid for the next twenty-two years. She wasn’t even able to care for her basic needs. Besides her physical pain, she still believed strong in her religion and her physical challenges did not prevent her from having an active life. She received Holy Communion daily, made altar laces and linens, catechized the village children from her bedside, and spent many hours in contemplative prayer which made her feel better.
When the French Revolution erupted St. Julie strenuously fought against the Reign of Terror initiated by the Jacobins. During the French Revolution, she gave aid to priests in her home, and soon after was smuggled to safety while hidden in a hay cart. She took refuge in the home of a countess, and due to her sanctity soon had a company of young, noble ladies gathered around her bed to whom she taught the ways of the interior life. When calm was restored, this holy woman founded the Institute of the Sisters of Notre Dame in collaboration with Frances Blin, Viscountess of Gezaincourt, and Father Joseph Varin, of the “Fathers of the Faith” (a group standing in for the suppressed Society of Jesus). The Institute of the Sisters of Notre Dame is dedicated to the teaching and the salvation of the children of the poor, Christian education of girls and the training of catechists. The Sisters of Notre Dame are still “teaching”, by helping out in Pre-School and Elementary-School in Catholic schools. At the age of 53, St. Julie and three other women made the vows as the “Sisters of Notre Dame”. After the Four women made their final vows, St. Julie was elected to become Mother General of the young Congregation. After making her vows in 1804, she was miraculously cured of her paralysis (which she had endured for twenty-two years) at the end of a mission given by Father Enfantin of the Fathers of the Faith. She was now able to consolidate and extend the new Institute as well as to give her personal assistance to the mission conducted by the Fathers. For the next twelve years she made over a hundred journeys as she founded fifteen convents of her order. After Father Varin’s departure from Amiens, St. Julie had to struggle hard to preserve the distinctively modern character of her Institute. Her success can be seen in the modern cast of the Institute, which has spread throughout the world. St. Julie suffered much the last three months before she died peacefully at the age of nearly 65, on April 8, 1816 after having spent herself in the service of God. On May 13, 1906, she was beatified and in 1969 she was canonized by Pope Paul VI. St. Julie Billiart is the Patron Saint of the sick and the poor. St. Julie’s motto and mantra was: “Oh, how good God is!”
Quotes of Saint Julia Billiart, Virgin: “A simple soul is one who seeks only God and does not fear being laughed at or despised.” “I ought to die of shame to think I have not already died of gratitude to my good God.” “I cannot tire of wondering at the goodness of my God.” “Look to God as a sunflower looks to the sun…for life.”
PRAYER: Saint Julie, through your great devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, you were miraculously cured and favored by many graces. By your powerful intercession, obtain for us above all, great trust in God in all difficulties of life, the strength to accomplish in all things the precious will of God and the special grace we now humbly ask of you… Amen.
Lord, our God, grant that Your faithful spouse, St. Julia may kindle in us the flame of Divine love that she enkindled in other virgins for the everlasting glory of Your Church. Amen. Saint Julie Billiart, Virgin ~ Pray for us🙏
SAINT PERPETUUS, BISHOP OF TOURS: Saint Perpetuus was the eighth Bishop of Tours, who governed that see for more than thirty years, from 461 to 494. During all that time he labored by zealous sermons, many synods and wholesome regulations, to lead souls to virtue. Saint Perpetuus had great veneration for the Saints and respect for their relics; he adorned their shrines and enriched their churches. As there was a continual succession of miracles at the tomb of Saint Martin, Perpetuus, finding the church built by Saint Bricius too small for the concourse of people coming there, directed its enlargement. When the building was finished, the good bishop solemnized the dedication of this large new church, which a writer of that time said was one of the marvels of the world and worthy to be compared with the temple of Solomon. The translation of the body of Saint Martin was carried out on the 4th of July in 491. It is believed that either Saint Martin or his Angel assisted on this occasion, for the coffin was so heavy that no means were found to move it, until an unknown elderly gentleman came forward and offered his aid, immediately efficacious.
Saint Perpetuus had made and signed his last will, which is still extant, on the 1st of March, 475, a number of years before his death. In this testament of love, he remited all debts owing to him; and having bequeathed to his church his library and several farms, and establishing a fund for the maintenance of lamps and the purchase of sacred vessels, he declared the poor his heirs for all the rest. He added exhortations to concord and piety, and begged a remembrance in prayer. His ancient epitaph equals him to the great Saint Martin. He died on the 8th of April, 494.
Saint Perpetuus, Bishop of Tours ~ Pray for us🙏
BLESSED MARY ASSUNTA PALLOTTA: Blessed Assunta Maria Liberata Pallotta (1878-1905) was the first non-martyr missionary sister to be beatified in the history of the Church. Bl. Mary Assunta Pallotta hails from Piceno and was born on August 20, 1878 in the little town of Force, Italy. She was baptized the day after she was born and was confirmed at the age of two. Assunta’s father was a common laborer who was chronically out of work. Her mother often had a hard struggle to feed her five children. By the time Assunta was eleven, her father left home to seek his fortune. Assunta, the dutiful older sister, helped her mother to keep the house, raise the younger brothers and go out to work to help support the family. In her youth she was obliged to perform every manner of lowly service in order to help her parents, who were in straitened circumstances. She attracted everybody by her modest reserve, and nobody could have found it in him to speak a coarse word in her presence. Jesus in the tabernacle was the love of her soul.
After she had been invested with the holy habit among the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, she formed a definite resolution which became the motto of her life: “I will become a saint!” She delighted in taking the last place. On the journey to the Chinese missions in the spring of 1904, a severe storm arose. She was asked whether she was not afraid, but she calmly replied: “I have nothing to fear. It is all the same to me whether I arrive at my goal or whether I am drowned in the depths of the sea. Just so that the will of God is accomplished.”
At the Franciscan mission of Tung-er-kow in Shansi, Blessed Mary Assunta Pallotta was at once appointed to duties in an orphanage. Meanwhile, her union with God was so intimate that no external occupation could disturb it. The task assigned her by Providence, to win the heathens for Christ by her holy and innocent life as well as by her holy death, was shortly to be accomplished. Within a year after her arrival in this pagan land, Mary Assunta was attacked by typhus and died a victim of love on April 5, 1905, at the early age of twenty-seven years. Pagans as well as Christians hastened to her grave to implore her powerful intercession in the most varied needs. In 1913 her remains were exhumed so that she could be moved to Tai-Yuan-Fou, and at that time Blessed Mary Assunta’s body was found to be incorrupt. China is now a Communist state, and it is not known even if the little gravesite still exists. In May, 1904, this charming ornament of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary knelt before Pope Pius X to ask his blessing before setting out on her journey to the Chinese mission. Fifty years later another Pius conferred on her the honors of the altar, when he beatified her on November 7, 1954.
Blessed Mary Assunta Pallotta, Franciscan Missionary ~ Pray for us🙏