Month: April 2025

WEDNESDAY IN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER

SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: FEAST DAY ~ APRIL 23, 2025

MEMORIAL OF SAINT GEORGE, MARTYR AND SAINT ADALBERT OF PRAGUE, BISHOP AND MARTYR | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

Daily Reflections with Philomena | Prayer for the Soul of Pope Francis | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/precious-in-the-sight-of-the-lord-is-the-death-of-his-saints-psalm-11615/

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary for the Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis | EWTN | April 23, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-daily-mass-50/

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/catholic-daily-;mass-50/

DIVINE MERCY NOVENA: Novena in preparation for DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY. Good Friday is the first day of the Divine Mercy Novena. Novena begins, Friday, April 18, 2025, to Saturday, April 26, 2025, leading up to Divine Mercy Sunday on April 27, 2025 | DAY 6: Link ~ https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/17/divine-mercy-novena/

Greetings and blessings, beloved family. Happy Easter Wednesday in the Octave of Easter!

As we continue to rejoice and celebrate in the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, during these first eight days of the Easter season (Easter octave), which are celebrated as solemnities of the Lord. Each day is another little Easter. The Alleluia verse is repeated throughout the octave: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. Alleluia!” The Lord has risen from the dead, as He foretold. Let there be happiness and rejoicing for He is our King forever, Alleluia! May God’s grace and mercy be with us all during this Easter season and always. 🙏🏽

PRAYER FOR THE SOUL OF POPE FRANCIS

With the passing of Pope Francis, let us continue to pray for the eternal repose of his soul and for the College of Cardinals as they embark on their sacred duty to elect Pope Francis’ successor:

Heavenly Father, You entrusted the care of Your Church on earth to Pope Francis, and now You have called him to Yourself. We entrust his soul to Your boundless mercy. For his lifelong service, we thank You. For his care for the poor and marginalized, we thank You. For his witness to simplicity, we thank You. In Your mercy, cleanse him of all sin. Purify him and draw him into the light of Your presence. Grant him the vision of Your Eternal Essence, into which we all long to be drawn. Protect Your Church in this time of transition. Guide the Cardinals in their sacred duty. Grant them Wisdom and Courage, Hope and Charity, and the Faith they need to discern Your Holy Will.

Father Most Holy, our God and King, Creator of all that was, is, and is to come – You alone know the heart of the one You have chosen as the successor to Pope Francis. Reveal Your will to the College of Cardinals. Open their hearts to Your inspirations. Open our hearts to receive, with faith and obedience, the one whom You will raise up to sit on the Chair of Saint Peter. May he be a man of deepest compassion, a man of profound faith and hope, a man whose charity shines forth, permeating the darkness of this world with the light of Christ. You are God Most High, the God of the living and the dead, the Great I AM, the Alpha and the Omega, Eternal Being and Source of all that is. May Your holy will be done, now and forever. Amen. Alleluia.

Merciful and loving God, We entrust to You our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis. May he rest in the light of Your presence, where suffering and sorrow are no more, and every tear is wiped away. Comfort all who mourn his passing, and raise up shepherds who will continue to guide Your Church in humility and love.

Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May his gentle soul and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽

On this special feast day, as we continue to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, particularly Saint Joseph, Patron of the sick and dying, we pray for the sick and dying and all those who mourn the loss of their loved ones. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, especially for our Holy Father, POPE FRANCIS, all those who died today, and all the faithful departed may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their gentle souls and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯

“Blessed are those who have died in the Lord; let them rest from their labors for their good deeds go with them.” ~ Rev 14:13

PRAYER FOR THE DEAD: In your hands, O Lord, we humbly entrust our brothers and sisters. In this life, you embraced them with your tender love; deliver them now from every evil, and bid them eternal rest. The old order has passed away: welcome them into paradise, where there will be no sorrow, no weeping or pain, but fullness of peace and joy with your Son and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen 🙏🏽

As we continue to rejoice in the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, we honor two heroic witnesses of faith: Saint George, Martyr (Patron of soldiers and the suffering) and Saint Adalbert of Prague, Bishop, Missionary, and Martyr (a zealous preacher who bore the Gospel to the very ends of the earth). Through their intercession and the maternal care of our Blessed Virgin Mary, we lift up prayers for the sick especially those with skin diseases, terminal illnesses, or near death. We also pray for the Church and clergy, persecuted Christians, the conversion of sinners, and for Christians around the world. Today, we remember those in the military, Scouts, farmers, and field workers, asking for God’s protection and guidance in their daily labors. 🙏🏽

DAILY REFLECTIONS WITH PHILOMENA | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

Daily Saints, Holy Mass, Holy Rosary, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Scripture Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/reflections/

Watch “HOLY MASS ON THE JUBILEE OF THE SICK AND HEALTHCARE WORKERS | Presided by H.E. Most Rev. Rino Fisichella | Live from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican | April 6, 2025” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/06/holy-mass-on-the-jubilee-of-the-sick-and-healthcare-workers/

WORLD PRAYERS FOR POPE FRANCIS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/02/26/world-prayers-for-pope-francis/

Honoring a Legacy of Service: The 10th Memorial Anniversary of Late Noble (Sir) Gabriel Louis Ihieje Opiepe (KSJI) | https://gliopiepehe.org/2025/04/12/honoring-a-legacy-of-service-the-10th-memorial-anniversary-of-late-noble-sir-gabriel-louis-ihieje-opiepe-ksji/

THE LITURGICAL YEAR IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/12/03/the-liturgical-year-in-the-catholic-church/

THE HOLY FATHER, POPE FRANCIS’ MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL: For the use of the new technologies ~ Let us pray that the use of the new technologies will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times.

PRAYER OF THE MONTH ~ POPE FRANCIS: Lord, Good Father, as I look at the world and see men and women working in it and beautifying it, a great “Thank You!” springs from my heart. The action of Your Spirit among us encourages us to grow in the progress of science and technology in the service of human dignity for integral and inclusive human development. Because we know You desire the good of all, 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/

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Wednesday in the Octave of Easter | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading

Today’s Bible Readings: Wednesday in the Octave of Easter | April 23, 2025
Reading 1, Acts 3:1-10
Responsorial Psalm, Psalms 105:1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8-9
Gospel, Luke 24:13-35

Gospel Reading ~ Luke 24:13–35

“They recognized Jesus in the breaking of the bread”

“That very day, the first day of the week, two of Jesus’ disciples were going to a village seven miles from Jerusalem called Emmaus and they were conversing about all the things that had occurred. And it happened that while they were conversing and debating, Jesus Himself drew near and walked with them, but their eyes were prevented from recognizing Him. He asked them, “What are you discussing as you walk along?” They stopped, looking downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, said to Him in reply, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know of the things that have taken place there in these days?” And He replied to them, “What sort of things?” They said to Him, “The things that happened to Jesus the Nazarene, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, how our chief priests and rulers both handed Him over to a sentence of death and crucified Him. But we were hoping that He would be the one to redeem Israel; and besides all this, it is now the third day since this took place. Some women from our group, however, have astounded us: they were at the tomb early in the morning and did not find His Body; they came back and reported that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who announced that He was alive. Then some of those with us went to the tomb and found things just as the women had described, but Him they did not see.” And He said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are! How slow of heart to believe all that the prophets spoke! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into His glory?” Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, He interpreted to them what referred to Him in all the Scriptures. As they approached the village to which they were going, He gave the impression that He was going on farther. But they urged Him, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening and the day is almost over.” So He went in to stay with them. And it happened that, while He was with them at table, He took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them. With that their eyes were opened and they recognized Him, but He vanished from their sight. Then they said to each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while He spoke to us on the way and opened the Scriptures to us?” So they set out at once and returned to Jerusalem where they found gathered together the Eleven and those with them who were saying, “The Lord has truly been raised and has appeared to Simon!” Then the two recounted what had taken place on the way and how He was made known to them in the breaking of the bread.”

In today’s Gospel reading, the two disciples on the road to Emmaus were clearly discouraged and downcast. We can all find ourselves in that place from time to time, in the shadow of the cross. If that is where we are, that is the self we bring to prayer. When the risen Lord first spoke to His unsuspecting disciples, it was to invite them to share what was in their hearts, to tell Him their story, a story that was full of sadness and devoid of hope. The Lord invites us in prayer to tell our story, to share with Him whatever might be in our hearts. It is only when the Lord had listened to their story that He told them His story, the story of His journey from suffering to glory as told in the Scriptures. Having open their hearts to this stranger, it was now their turn to listen. There comes a time in our prayer when, having opened our hearts to the Lord, we too need to listen to His word to us. A passage from Scripture can help us to be attentive to what the Lord might want to say to us. This prayerful moment of sharing with the Lord and listening to Him ‘on the way’ led to another prayerful moment at table. There Jesus prayed a prayer of blessing over the bread, broke it and gave it to His disciples. Jesus’ prayerful words and actions led to a prayer of recognition on the part of the disciples. They recognized the Lord at the breaking of bread. Our prayer of sharing and listening will often lead us to the prayer of the Eucharist. There we enter into the Lord’s own prayer of blessing and thanksgiving to the Father as we prayerfully recognize the Lord who comes us in the breaking of bread. After these prayerful encounters, the two disciples left the table and shared with others their Easter faith. At the end of every Eucharist, we are sent out to do the same.

Reflecting on today’s Gospel, two disciples, disheartened and confused, journeyed to Emmaus after the crucifixion of Jesus. Though they were speaking about the very events that would change the world forever, they could not recognize the Risen Christ as He walked alongside them. Jesus listened patiently to their sorrow and gently reproached their slowness to believe. Then, beginning with Moses and the prophets, He opened the Scriptures to them, illuminating how all of salvation history pointed to His suffering, death, and Resurrection. Their hearts burned within them—not just from understanding, but from being in the presence of divine truth. It was not until He broke bread with them that their eyes were opened and they truly recognized Him. This powerful encounter reveals how Christ draws near to us even when we are lost in disappointment or weighed down by doubt. In moments of discouragement, we might fail to see Him walking right beside us. Yet through the Word of God and the Eucharist just as on the road to Emmaus He reveals Himself to us. He rekindles our faith and renews our hope. We are reminded that faith is not merely about seeing but about trusting that Christ is alive and present in our journey, even when we do not immediately perceive Him.

Our first reading today from the Acts of the Apostles, gives an account of the healing of the beggar who sat by the Beautiful Gate of the Temple of Jerusalem, by St. Peter and St. John who happened to be passing by. Sts. Peter and John encounter this crippled man from birth who begs for alms at the temple gate. Rather than giving him money, Peter offers something infinitely more valuable healing in the name of Jesus Christ. “I have neither silver nor gold, but what I do have I give you: in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean, rise and walk.” The beggar was healed by the Apostles who healed him in the Name of the Lord, and the crippled beggar was made whole again. That miraculous healing made not only the beggar to rejoice, leaping with joy, but also everyone else who have witnessed the miraculous healing, as everyone knew how long that man had been sitting and was crippled since birth, and God had made him whole and fine again. This miraculous healing not only transforms the man physically but also leads him to joyfully praise God, drawing the attention of everyone around him. This scene reminds us that the power of the Resurrection continues to work through the apostles and through us. It is not material wealth that truly transforms lives, but the name and power of Jesus. We, too, are called to offer others Christ not only through words but through the witness of our lives, our compassion, and acts of faith. When we place our trust in Jesus and share Him with others, we become instruments of His healing and joy.

Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, “Rejoice, O hearts that seek the Lord.” The psalm invites us to give thanks, sing praise, and proclaim the marvelous works of God. It calls us to remember His covenant and to rejoice in seeking His presence. This joyful attitude is the natural response of those who have encountered the Risen Christ. In our daily lives, even amidst trials, we are reminded to celebrate the faithfulness of God who keeps His promises across generations.

Are we attentive to Christ walking with us in the midst of our challenges? Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, do we take time to listen to the Scriptures and allow our hearts to be set ablaze with truth? Do we, like Peter, offer Christ to others, or do we limit our generosity to only what the world values? How can we better recognize and proclaim Christ’s presence in the ordinary moments of our lives? Let us, like the disciples of Emmaus, return with joy to the community of believers and share the Good News: Christ is risen! Let us walk in faith, listening to His Word, and recognize Him in the breaking of the bread. May our lives become a testimony to the living Christ who journeys with us every day.

As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we are all reminded of the grace that God has given us through the suffering, death and resurrection of His only Son, Jesus Christ, Whom He had sent into this world to be our Lord and Saviour. Through Christ, all of us have received a new hope and seen the Light of God’s salvation, revealing fully the great and enduring love which God has for each and every one of us, each one without exception. We are all reminded that through His suffering, death and resurrection, Christ has gathered and called us all, the lost sheep of His flock, to find our way towards Him and the eternal life that He has promised and purchased by His death, for all the faithful ones. May God in His infinite grace and mercy be with us all and grant us His grace, and may our Risen Lord continue to strengthen us and give us the courage and the power to be great missionaries of His love and truth in our present day world. May we help one another to be closer to God, and bring many others to the healing and happiness that can be found in God alone, our Hope and our Light, our Saviour and our God. Amen 🙏🏽

Lord Jesus, open our eyes to Your presence in the Word, in the Eucharist, and in one another. Set our hearts ablaze with the fire of Your truth. May we never walk alone, even when we feel lost or confused. Give us the courage to proclaim You like Mary Magdalene and the boldness to heal like Peter, trusting in the power of Your name. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: MEMORIAL OF SAINT GEORGE, MARTYR, AND SAINT ADALBERT OF PRAGUE, BISHOP AND MARTYR – FEAST DAY: APRIL 23RD: Today, as we continue to rejoice in the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Church honors two heroic witnesses of faith: Saint George, Martyr (Patron of soldiers and the suffering) and Saint Adalbert of Prague, Bishop, Missionary, and Martyr (a zealous preacher who bore the Gospel to the very ends of the earth). Through their intercession and the maternal care of our Blessed Virgin Mary, we lift up prayers for the sick especially those with skin diseases, terminal illnesses, or near death. We also pray for the Church and clergy, persecuted Christians, the conversion of sinners, and for Christians around the world. Today, we remember those in the military, Scouts, farmers, and field workers, asking for God’s protection and guidance in their daily labors. 🙏🏽

Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | April 23rd | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint George and Saint Adalbert of Prague | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-april-23rd/)

SAINT GEORGE, MARTYR: Saint George (d. 303 A.D.) was a Roman soldier of noble Christian heritage, born in Palestine. He served with distinction in the Roman army under Emperor Diocletian, but when faced with orders to persecute Christians, he courageously refused and professed his faith in Christ. For this, he was tortured and ultimately beheaded. His unwavering fidelity earned him the title “Great Martyr” in the Eastern Church and a special place of honor across Christendom.

Though surrounded by legend most famously the tale of slaying a dragon to save a princess—what remains undeniable is his deep faith and martyrdom for Christ. Saint George became a symbol of Christian bravery and chivalry. He is among the Fourteen Holy Helpers, venerated especially in times of plague and suffering. Devotion to him was widespread as early as the 5th century, and Constantine the Great is believed to have built a church in his honor in Constantinople.

Saint George is Patron of numerous causes and places, including soldiers, knights, Boy Scouts, farmers, field workers, butchers, archers, and many nations—notably England, Georgia, and Portugal. He is invoked particularly by those suffering from skin diseases, leprosy, syphilis, and snakebites.

PRAYER: O God, who raised up Saint George to bear bold witness to Christ even to the shedding of his blood, grant that we, by his intercession, may be strengthened in faith and courage. May he come swiftly to the aid of our weakness. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

SAINT ADALBERT OF PRAGUE, BISHOP AND MARTYR: Born in Bohemia in 956, Saint Adalbert (baptized Vojtech) was a nobleman turned bishop and missionary. Educated under the guidance of Archbishop Adalbert of Magdeburg, he took his mentor’s name and followed in his footsteps with a life of zealous faith. At just 26, he became Bishop of Prague, tirelessly working to reform his clergy, defend the poor, and preach the Gospel—even amid strong opposition.

Saint Adalbert’s bold critiques of polygamy, idolatry, and the slave trade drew hostility from nobles and even some clergy. After years of trials, he resigned and embraced a monastic life in Rome. Eventually, he was sent as a missionary to the pagan Prussians along the Baltic coast. There, after courageously continuing his mission despite warnings, he was martyred on April 23, 997, pierced with seven spears and beheaded. His relics were later ransomed by Polish Prince Boleslaw Chrobry for their weight in gold.

Canonized in 999 by Pope Sylvester II, Saint Adalbert is Patron of Bohemia, the Czech Republic, Poland, the Archdiocese of Esztergom in Hungary, and the former Duchy of Prussia. His life remains a powerful testament to the missionary spirit and fearless love for the Gospel.

PRAYER: God of power and mercy, who called Saint Adalbert to shepherd Your people and proclaim the Gospel, even to martyrdom, grant that through his intercession, pastors may zealously guide their flocks, and all the faithful may walk in unity and holiness. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Saint George and Saint Adalbert of Prague – Pray for us. 🙏🏽

DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF APRIL | MONTH OF HOLY EUCHARIST: April is dedicated to the Holy Eucharist, the greatest gift of Christ to His Church. In the Eucharist, Jesus is truly present Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity offering Himself as the Bread of Life. This month invites us to deepen our love and reverence for the Eucharist, especially as we approach Holy Week and Easter, celebrating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord. The Eucharist was instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper when He said, “Take and eat; this is My Body… Drink from it, all of you, for this is My Blood of the Covenant” (Matthew 26:26-28). In receiving the Eucharist, we are united with Christ and His Church. It is the source of our strength and the culmination of our salvation, as Christ Himself said in John 6:51, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.” As we journey through Lent, we are called to renew our reverence for the Eucharist. During Holy Week, we remember that Christ instituted this sacrament on Holy Thursday, offering us a way to remain in union with Him. Let us take this opportunity to attend Mass regularly, spend time in Eucharistic adoration, and reflect on the mystery of Christ’s presence in the Blessed Sacrament.

In this season of penance and reflection, may our devotion to the Eucharist strengthen our commitment to living as true disciples of Christ, leading us to the joy of Easter and the Resurrection.

O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Lord Jesus, You have given Yourself to us in the Eucharist. May we receive You with reverence and love, and let Your grace transform us this Lenten season and always. Amen 🙏🏽

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12540

PRAYER INTENTIONS: On this day within the Easter Octave, as we reflect on the risen Christ walking alongside the disciples on the road to Emmaus and the miraculous healing at the temple gate, we bring our intentions before the Lord with hearts full of hope. We pray for all who are spiritually weary or walking through seasons of confusion, that the Lord may open their eyes to recognize His presence and rekindle their faith. May those who feel forgotten or paralyzed by fear, doubt, or sickness experience the healing touch of Jesus, as the crippled man did through Peter and John. Inspired by the courageous witness of Saint George and Saint Adalbert—who boldly proclaimed Christ even unto death—we lift up all who suffer for the faith, asking God to grant them perseverance and peace. We pray for our Church to be renewed with apostolic zeal, for missionaries, pastors, and laity to proclaim the Gospel with joy and conviction, and for each of us to burn with the desire to encounter the risen Lord more deeply in Scripture, in the breaking of the Bread, and in one another. 🙏🏽

LET US PRAY

My resurrected Lord, You appeared to these disciples who lacked faith and understanding and gave them the gift of Your holy teaching. Teach me, dear Lord, all that I must come to understand and know about You, Your death, Resurrection and glorious gift of new life. May Your Word burn within me and lead me to a transformation of my life. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽

Risen Lord Jesus, You walked with the disciples in their sorrow and opened their eyes in the breaking of the bread—come and walk with us today. As You healed the lame and strengthened the weak through Your apostles, heal us in our brokenness and raise us to new life. Through the intercession of Saint George and Saint Adalbert, who bore witness to Your name with unwavering courage, grant us the grace to stand firm in faith, to speak boldly of Your love, and to serve with compassionate hearts. Set our hearts ablaze with the fire of Your presence, that we may recognize You in every step of our journey and share the joy of the Resurrection with the world. We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen. 🙏🏽

Save us Savior of the world. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Joseph, Saint George and Saint Adalbert of Prague ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽

Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day and the immeasurable love shown through His Son, our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. As we continue to rejoice in the glory of the Resurrection, may our hearts remain open to the peace and hope that flow from His victory over sin and death. During this joyful Easter season, we pray that our loving Savior will deepen our faith and draw us closer to the mystery of His Passion, death, and Resurrection. May we walk in the light of His risen life, renewed in spirit and overflowing with grace. Praying for us all andoour loved ones today and we pray for journey mercies for all those traveling during this Easter season. May this Easter Wednesday be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ is truly risen! Alleluia! 🙏🏽

Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖

Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation | https://gliopiepehe.org

Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation | Global Missons Now Awards |

TUESDAY IN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER

SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: FEAST DAY ~ APRIL 22, 2025

MEMORIAL OF SAINTS SOTER AND CAIUS, POPES AND MARTYRS; SAINT LEONIDES, MARTYR AND SAINTS EPIPODIUS AND ALEXANDER, MARTYRS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

Daily Reflections with Philomena | Prayer for the Soul of Pope Francis | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/precious-in-the-sight-of-the-lord-is-the-death-of-his-saints-psalm-11615/

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary for the Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis | EWTN | April 22, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-daily-mass-49/

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/catholic-daily-mass-49/

Watch “Mass heald in Italy after the death of Pope Fra cis | Live from St. John Lateran’s Basilica in Rome | April 21, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/mass-heald-in-italy-after-the-death-of-pope-francis-live-from-rome/

Pray “Holy Rosary for Pope Francis | His Eminence Cardinal Mauro Gambetti | LIVE from the Vatican | April 21, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/holy-rosary-for-pope-francis-his-eminence-cardinal-mauro-gambetti-live-from-the-vatican/

DIVINE MERCY NOVENA: Novena in preparation for DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY. Good Friday is the first day of the Divine Mercy Novena. Novena begins, Friday, April 18, 2025, to Saturday, April 26, 2025, leading up to Divine Mercy Sunday on April 27, 2025 | DAY 5: Link ~ https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/17/divine-mercy-novena/

Greetings and blessings, beloved family. Happy Easter Tuesday in the Octave of Easter!

We continue to celebrate and rejoice in the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ during this first eight days of the Easter season (Easter octave) which are celebrated as solemnities of the Lord. Each day is another little Easter. The Alleluia verse is repeated throughout the octave: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. Alleluia!” The Lord has risen from the dead, as He foretold. Let there be happiness and rejoicing for He is our King forever, Alleluia! May God’s grace and mercy be with us all during this Easter season and always. 🙏🏽

PRAYER FOR THE SOUL OF POPE FRANCIS

With the passing of Pope Francis, let us continue to pray for the eternal repose of his soul and for the College of Cardinals as they embark on their sacred duty to elect Pope Francis’ successor:

Heavenly Father, You entrusted the care of Your Church on earth to Pope Francis, and now You have called him to Yourself. We entrust his soul to Your boundless mercy. For his lifelong service, we thank You. For his care for the poor and marginalized, we thank You. For his witness to simplicity, we thank You. In Your mercy, cleanse him of all sin. Purify him and draw him into the light of Your presence. Grant him the vision of Your Eternal Essence, into which we all long to be drawn. Protect Your Church in this time of transition. Guide the Cardinals in their sacred duty. Grant them Wisdom and Courage, Hope and Charity, and the Faith they need to discern Your Holy Will.

Father Most Holy, our God and King, Creator of all that was, is, and is to come—
You alone know the heart of the one You have chosen as the successor to Pope Francis. Reveal Your will to the College of Cardinals. Open their hearts to Your inspirations. Open our hearts to receive, with faith and obedience, the one whom You will raise up to sit on the Chair of Saint Peter. May he be a man of deepest compassion, a man of profound faith and hope, a man whose charity shines forth, permeating the darkness of this world with the light of Christ. You are God Most High, the God of the living and the dead, the Great I AM, the Alpha and the Omega, Eternal Being and Source of all that is. May Your holy will be done, now and forever. Amen. Alleluia.

Merciful and loving God, We entrust to You our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis, whom You have called from this life to Yourself. We thank You for his faithful and courageous witness to the Gospel, his compassion for the poor and the marginalized, and his tireless devotion to building bridges of peace and unity in Your Church. Receive him into the joy of Your eternal embrace. May he rest in the light of Your presence, where suffering and sorrow are no more, and every tear is wiped away. Comfort all who mourn his passing, and raise up shepherds who will continue to guide Your Church in humility and love.

Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May his gentle soul and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽

On this special feast day, as we continue to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, particularly Saint Joseph, Patron of the sick and dying, we pray for the sick and dying and all those who mourn the loss of their loved ones. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, especially for our Holy Father, POPE FRANCIS, all those who died today, and all the faithful departed may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their gentle souls and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯

“Blessed are those who have died in the Lord; let them rest from their labors for their good deeds go with them.” ~ Rev 14:13

PRAYER FOR THE DEAD: In your hands, O Lord, we humbly entrust our brothers and sisters. In this life, you embraced them with your tender love; deliver them now from every evil, and bid them eternal rest. The old order has passed away: welcome them into paradise, where there will be no sorrow, no weeping or pain, but fullness of peace and joy with your Son and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen 🙏🏽

As we continue to rejoice in the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, we honor remarkable martyrs who bore courageous witness to Christ: Saint Soter (Pope and Martyr, patron of charity and Christian unity) and Saint Caius (Pope and Martyr, invoked for strength in persecution), holy Popes who shepherded the early Church and died for the faith; Saint Leonides (Martyr, patron saint of large families), father of Origen and a steadfast witness in Alexandria; and Saints Epipodius and Alexander (Martyrs, with Saint Epipodius as the patron of bachelors, victims of betrayal, and torture), young companions martyred in Lyon. These saints, though from different backgrounds and vocations, remind us that holiness blooms wherever the seed of faith takes root. Through their intercession and the maternal care of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we pray today for the Church and clergy, persecuted Christians, the conversion of sinners, and especially for bachelors, the betrayed, those enduring torture, and the poor and needy in our world. 🙏🏽.

DAILY REFLECTIONS WITH PHILOMENA | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

Daily Saints, Holy Mass, Holy Rosary, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Scripture Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/reflections/

Watch “HOLY MASS ON THE JUBILEE OF THE SICK AND HEALTHCARE WORKERS | Presided by H.E. Most Rev. Rino Fisichella | Live from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican | April 6, 2025” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/06/holy-mass-on-the-jubilee-of-the-sick-and-healthcare-workers/

WORLD PRAYERS FOR POPE FRANCIS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/02/26/world-prayers-for-pope-francis/

Honoring a Legacy of Service: The 10th Memorial Anniversary of Late Noble (Sir) Gabriel Louis Ihieje Opiepe (KSJI) | https://gliopiepehe.org/2025/04/12/honoring-a-legacy-of-service-the-10th-memorial-anniversary-of-late-noble-sir-gabriel-louis-ihieje-opiepe-ksji/

THE LITURGICAL YEAR IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/12/03/the-liturgical-year-in-the-catholic-church/

THE HOLY FATHER, POPE FRANCIS’ MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL: For the use of the new technologies ~ Let us pray that the use of the new technologies will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times.

PRAYER OF THE MONTH ~ POPE FRANCIS: Lord, Good Father, as I look at the world and see men and women working in it and beautifying it, a great “Thank You!” springs from my heart. The action of Your Spirit among us encourages us to grow in the progress of science and technology in the service of human dignity for integral and inclusive human development. Because we know You desire the good of all, 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/

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Tuesday in the Octave of Easter | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading

Today’s Bible Readings: Tuesday in the Octave of Easter | April 22, 2025
Reading 1, Acts 2:36-41
Responsorial Psalm, Psalms 33:4-5, 18-19, 20, 22
Gospel, John 20:11-18

Gospel Reading ~ John 20:11–18

“I have seen the Lord, and He said these things to me”

“Mary Magdalene stayed outside the tomb weeping. And as she wept, she bent over into the tomb and saw two angels in white sitting there, one at the head and one at the feet where the Body of Jesus had been. And they said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken my Lord, and I don’t know where they laid him.” When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus there, but did not know it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you looking for?” She thought it was the gardener and said to him, “Sir, if you carried him away, tell me where you laid him, and I will take him.” Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to him in Hebrew, “Rabbouni,” which means Teacher. Jesus said to her, “Stop holding on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am going to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” Mary went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord,” and then reported what he had told her.”

Today’s Gospel reading gives an account of the Lord’s resurrection and His appearance to Mary Magdalene. Mary Magdalene witnessed the Lord’s suffering and death on the cross, and she was distraught when she found out that the Lord’s Body had disappeared from His tomb due to His Resurrection. That was when the Lord showed Himself to her in all of His risen glory, although she did not initially recognise Him likely because she was still distraught, until the Lord called her and revealed Himself to her. Mary believed in the Lord and she proclaimed the news of the Lord’s resurrection to the other disciples, the Apostles. In this way is why she is also known as the Apostle to the Apostles. She told them all of what she had seen and experienced, revealing the Risen Lord to the disciples, with great joy and courage. Mary Magdalene did exactly the same as what St. Peter had done, in proclaiming the truth of the Lord and turning people on the their ways towards the Lord and His salvation. This is exactly what each one of us are called to do as well. It is all these revelations and truth which the Lord has revealed to His disciples and followers, through His other appearances throughout the period between His Resurrection and Ascension into Heaven, witnessed by many of His followers, which reassured and strengthened them in their faith in God.

Reflecting on today’s Gospel, Mary Magdalene remains at the tomb, overwhelmed by sorrow and unable to see beyond her grief. Even when Jesus is right in front of her, she does not recognize Him until He speaks her name. This simple yet powerful moment of recognition changes everything. The darkness of loss is shattered by the light of the Risen Lord. What was once a place of mourning becomes the place of divine revelation. Mary, the first witness of the Resurrection, is entrusted with the most joyful and profound mission: to announce that Christ is risen. This encounter reminds us that the Risen Christ meets us personally—He calls us by name. Often, like Mary, we are unable to recognize Him because we are consumed by our own pain, confusion, or expectations. Yet Jesus is near, inviting us to see with the eyes of faith. His Resurrection is not merely an event of the past—it is a reality we are called to live today. Like Mary, we are called to be witnesses of the living Christ, proclaiming with our lives: “I have seen the Lord.”

In our first reading today, from the Acts of the Apostles of the testimony of faith which was delivered by St. Peter the Apostle to the people assembled in Jerusalem for the festival of the Pentecost. St. Peter told the people to be faithful in the Lord and to believe in Him, for everything that He had done for the sake of His beloved people. God has given us such a great and unsurpassed gift in His Son, Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Saviour, that He has done everything, even to the point of enduring the worst of sufferings, punishments, humiliation and pain for our sake. He did not hold Himself back from doing all these because He truly loved us. And through His death and resurrection, Christ has broken the doors of death, and the chains of sin that had long kept the people of God enslaved and suffering under their dominion and power. St. Peter called all those people to turn towards the Lord and to discover the love by which God has rescued them from the darkness of sin and evil in this world. He courageously proclaimed the truth despite having no proper education, and despite having hidden himself with the other disciples earlier on due to the opposition and oppression by the Jewish authorities. That is because as the power of the Holy Spirit was working through him, St. Peter allowed himself to be the witness of the Lord’s Resurrection, and to be filled with the courage and strength from the Spirit of God, in bringing the Good News and the truth to the people despite the risks that he had to face in doing so. He spoke with the wisdom and the eloquence that God granted him through the Holy Spirit. And in doing so, he turned the hearts of many towards God, and revealed the great love that God had for all of them, such as shown by Christ’s death on the Cross.

Reflecting on the first reading, Peter’s bold proclamation on Pentecost stirs the hearts of his listeners. He does not hold back the truth: “God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.” Yet the message is not condemnation but invitation. When the people ask what they must do, Peter responds with the hope of transformation: “Repent and be baptized.” The Easter message is one of new beginnings. The Resurrection leads to repentance, to forgiveness, to the gift of the Holy Spirit, and to life in Christ. Three thousand people accepted the message that day—an incredible harvest of souls in response to the risen Lord’s power. We are reminded that Easter is not just about rejoicing—it is about responding. We are called not only to believe but to allow that belief to change us. In a world still marked by corruption and despair, the Church is called to echo Peter’s voice: “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” The Risen Lord is the source of a new life for all who will turn to Him.

Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, “The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.” Easter opens our eyes to the beauty of God’s presence everywhere. Psalm 33 celebrates the Lord’s kindness and faithfulness, His justice and protection. We are not abandoned—we are watched over, preserved, and loved. As we place our hope in the Lord, we find peace and strength in knowing that He is our help and our shield.

Where in my life am I weeping like Mary—over loss, disappointment, or fear? Can I recognize the voice of Jesus calling me by name? How is the Risen Lord inviting me to live differently today—to turn away from old patterns and embrace the new life He offers? Am I open to receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit and to being a bold witness of the Resurrection? Easter does not end on Sunday—it unfolds day by day in our lives. Like Mary Magdalene and the first disciples, we are called to go forth, bearing witness to the life that triumphs over death. In our sorrow, Christ speaks our name. In our weakness, He gives us the Spirit. In our ordinary lives, He reveals extraordinary grace. May we live this Easter season not as observers, but as transformed messengers—proclaiming hope, joy, and new life wherever we go.

As we reflect on the words of the Sacred  Scriptures today, we are all called to reflect again on this Easter Octave, the true meaning of what it means to be Christians. As Christians, each and every one of us are called to serve the Lord with faith and commitment. All of us are called to be missionaries of our Christian faith in our world today, to proclaim the Risen Lord in our respective communities and among all those whom we encounter each day and at each moments of our lives. May God, our Risen Lord and Saviour, bless us all and be with us always, and may He strengthen each and every one of us that we may always be strong and be able to persevere despite the trials, challenges and difficulties that we may encounter in our path towards Him. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us the grace and bless all of our actions and works, that in all things we will always glorify Him and bring His truth to ever more and more people, throughout the world, and bring the salvation He has promised us to those who have not yet known Him. Amen 🙏🏽

Risen Lord Jesus, call me by name as You called Mary Magdalene. Break through my sorrow and open my heart to the joy of Your presence. Help me to repent of anything that keeps me from You and to receive the fullness of Your Spirit. May I be a faithful witness to Your Resurrection, not only in my words but in how I live. Let the truth of Your rising shape my every choice, and may I proclaim with all my heart, “I have seen the Lord.” Amen 🙏🏽

SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: MEMORIAL OF SAINTS SOTER AND CAIUS, POPES AND MARTYRS; SAINT LEONIDES, MARTYR; AND SAINTS EPIPODIUS AND ALEXANDER, MARTYRS – FEAST DAY: APRIL 22ND: Today, the Church honors remarkable martyrs who bore courageous witness to Christ: Saint Soter (Pope and Martyr, patron of charity and Christian unity) and Saint Caius (Pope and Martyr, invoked for strength in persecution), holy Popes who shepherded the early Church and died for the faith; Saint Leonides (Martyr, patron saint of large families), father of Origen and a steadfast witness in Alexandria; and Saints Epipodius and Alexander (Martyrs, with Saint Epipodius as the patron of bachelors, victims of betrayal, and torture), young companions martyred in Lyon. These saints, though from different backgrounds and vocations, remind us that holiness blooms wherever the seed of faith takes root. Through their intercession and the maternal care of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we pray today for the Church and clergy, persecuted Christians, the conversion of sinners, and especially for bachelors, the betrayed, those enduring torture, and the poor and needy in our world. 🙏🏽

Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | April 22nd | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

( Direct link to the detailed history of Saints Soter, Caius, Leonides, Epipodius, and Alexander | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-april-22/ )

SAINT SOTER, POPE AND MARTYR: Saint Soter served as the 12th Bishop of Rome from 166 to 175 A.D., born of Greek origin in Fondi, Italy. He is remembered for his compassionate leadership, his emphasis on charity, and his role in affirming Christian marriage and liturgical traditions. He vigorously opposed the Montanist heresy and supported faraway churches with letters of encouragement and aid, notably the Church in Corinth. His pastoral care earned him the love of many, and he was eventually martyred for the faith during the reign of Marcus Aurelius.

PRAYER: O gracious God, who gave us Saint Soter as a shepherd of love and truth, grant that we may imitate his example of generosity, fidelity, and courageous leadership. May his intercession help us to live our faith boldly and serve those in need with joy. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT CAIUS, POPE AND MARTYR: Saint Caius led the Church during turbulent times from 283 to 296 A.D. Born in Salona (modern-day Croatia), possibly related to Emperor Diocletian, he chose faith over privilege. He structured the steps toward priestly ordination and encouraged believers to confess the faith boldly or flee when necessary. Despite his noble roots, he too embraced martyrdom, dying during the last wave of persecutions under Diocletian. His remains were discovered in the Catacombs of St. Callixtus with the inscription: Vicar of Christ.

PRAYER: Lord God, through the holy Pope and martyr Caius, You strengthened Your Church in the face of danger. May his steadfast example inspire us to hold firm in trials and bear witness to You in word and deed. Grant us the courage to live and die for Your truth. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT LEONIDES, MARTYR: Saint Leonides, a Christian philosopher and father of the great theologian Origen, was martyred during the persecution under Emperor Severus around the year 202. Known for his piety and scholarship, he raised his children with love for learning and holiness. His son, Origen, remembered how he would reverently kiss his chest while he slept, recognizing it as a temple of the Holy Spirit. Arrested in Alexandria and executed for his faith, Leonides became a beacon of faith-filled fatherhood and martyrdom. He is the patron saint of large families.

PRAYER: Eternal Father, we thank You for the example of Saint Leonides, who nurtured his children in the ways of holiness and gave his life for Christ. Through his intercession, bless all parents with wisdom and courage. Strengthen families to be domestic churches, grounded in faith and love. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINTS EPIPODIUS AND ALEXANDER, MARTYRS: These two young friends were martyred in Lyon around 178 A.D. during the persecution of Marcus Aurelius. Epipodius, a native of Lyon, and Alexander, a physician from Phrygia, confessed their faith boldly before the governor. Epipodius was tortured and beheaded, while Alexander was scourged and crucified two days later. Their deep friendship, loyalty to Christ, and fearless endurance in suffering continue to inspire. St. Epipodius is especially venerated as the patron saint of bachelors, victims of betrayal, and torture.

PRAYER: Holy God, we praise You for the courage of Saints Epipodius and Alexander. In the face of betrayal and death, they held fast to Your name. Help us remain faithful in trials and loyal to our friends. Through their prayers, bring healing to the betrayed, strength to the tortured, and hope to those who suffer. Amen. 🙏🏽

Let us walk today in the footsteps of these faithful martyrs—bold in witness, rich in mercy, and joyful in hope. May their prayers guide us along the narrow way to Christ, our Risen Lord. ✝️

Saints Soter, Caius, Leonides, Epipodius, and Alexander – Pray for us. 🙏🏽

DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF APRIL | MONTH OF HOLY EUCHARIST: April is dedicated to the Holy Eucharist, the greatest gift of Christ to His Church. In the Eucharist, Jesus is truly present Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity offering Himself as the Bread of Life. This month invites us to deepen our love and reverence for the Eucharist, especially as we approach Holy Week and Easter, celebrating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord. The Eucharist was instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper when He said, “Take and eat; this is My Body… Drink from it, all of you, for this is My Blood of the Covenant” (Matthew 26:26-28). In receiving the Eucharist, we are united with Christ and His Church. It is the source of our strength and the culmination of our salvation, as Christ Himself said in John 6:51, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.” As we journey through Lent, we are called to renew our reverence for the Eucharist. During Holy Week, we remember that Christ instituted this sacrament on Holy Thursday, offering us a way to remain in union with Him. Let us take this opportunity to attend Mass regularly, spend time in Eucharistic adoration, and reflect on the mystery of Christ’s presence in the Blessed Sacrament.

In this season of penance and reflection, may our devotion to the Eucharist strengthen our commitment to living as true disciples of Christ, leading us to the joy of Easter and the Resurrection.

O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Lord Jesus, You have given Yourself to us in the Eucharist. May we receive You with reverence and love, and let Your grace transform us this Lenten season and always. Amen 🙏🏽

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12540

PRAYER INTENTIONS: Heavenly Father, through the light of Your Word and the witness of Your saints, we come before You with humble hearts. We pray for all pastors and leaders in the Church, that they may be courageous, faithful, and filled with wisdom like Saints Soter and Caius. We lift up parents striving to raise their children in the faith, especially fathers, inspired by Saint Leonides. May they guide with love and strength. We pray for all young people facing trials and temptations, that through the intercession of Saints Epipodius and Alexander, they may stand firm in truth and virtue. We also remember persecuted Christians, the betrayed, those enduring torture, bachelors striving for purity, and all the poor and forgotten in our world. May they find comfort in Christ’s love and the support of the Church.

LET US PRAY

My risen and ascended Lord, You now reign in Heaven in perfect glory and splendor. Draw me into Your glorious life and invite me to cling to You with all my heart. I invite You, dear Lord, to come and make Your dwelling within me so that I can hold on to You forevermore. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽

Lord Jesus, You are the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep. Strengthen us with the boldness of the martyrs, the tenderness of fathers, and the purity of faithful youth. May we, like the saints we honor today, remain steadfast in the face of persecution and proclaim Your name with joy. Through the grace of the Resurrection and the power of Your Holy Spirit, transform our hearts to love as You love. Grant that our lives may become a living testimony of Your mercy and truth. Amen. 🙏🏽

Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day and the immeasurable love shown through His Son, our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. As we continue to rejoice in the glory of the Resurrection, may our hearts remain open to the peace and hope that flow from His victory over sin and death. During this joyful Easter season, we pray that our loving Savior will deepen our faith and draw us closer to the mystery of His Passion, death, and Resurrection. May we walk in the light of His risen life, renewed in spirit and overflowing with grace. Praying for us all andoour loved ones today and we pray for journey mercies for all those traveling during this Easter season. May this Easter Tuesday be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ is truly risen! Alleluia! 🙏🏽

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 |

MONDAY IN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER

SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: FEAST DAY ~ APRIL 21, 2025

SAINTS OF THE DAY: MEMORIAL OF SAINT ANSELM OF CANTERBURY, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH; AND SAINT CONRAD OF PARZHAM, RELIGIOUS | APRIL 21ST | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

Daily Reflections with Philomena | Prayer for the Soul of Pope Francis | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/precious-in-the-sight-of-the-lord-is-the-death-of-his-saints-psalm-11615/

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/catholic-daily-mass-48/

Watch “Mass heald in Italy after the death of Pope Fra cis | Live from St. John Lateran’s Basilica in Rome | April 21, 2025 |

Pray “Holy Rosary for Pope Francis | His Eminence Cardinal Mauro Gambetti | LIVE from the Vatican | April 21, 2025 |

DIVINE MERCY NOVENA: Novena in preparation for DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY. Good Friday is the first day of the Divine Mercy Novena. Novena begins, Friday, April 18, 2025, to Saturday, April 26, 2025, leading up to Divine Mercy Sunday on April 27, 2025 | DAY 4: Link ~ https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/17/divine-mercy-novena/

Greetings and blessings, beloved family. Happy Easter Monday in the Octave of Easter.

The Lord has risen from the dead, as He foretold. Let there be happiness and rejoicing for He is our King forever, Alleluia! May God’s grace and mercy be with us all during this Easter season and always. 🙏🏽

On this day, Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, with profound sadness and total submission to the will of Almighty God, we mourn the passing of our dear beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis at the age of 88.

“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His faithful servants” ~ Psalm 116:15

PRAYER FOR THE SOUL OF POPE FRANCIS

With the passing of Pope Francis today, let us pray for the eternal repose of his soul and for the College of Cardinals as they embark on their sacred duty to elect Pope Francis’ successor:

Heavenly Father, You entrusted the care of Your Church on earth to Pope Francis, and now You have called him to Yourself. We entrust his soul to Your boundless mercy. For his lifelong service, we thank You. For his care for the poor and marginalized, we thank You. For his witness to simplicity, we thank You. In Your mercy, cleanse him of all sin. Purify him and draw him into the light of Your presence. Grant him the vision of Your Eternal Essence, into which we all long to be drawn. Protect Your Church in this time of transition. Guide the Cardinals in their sacred duty. Grant them Wisdom and Courage, Hope and Charity, and the Faith they need to discern Your Holy Will.

Father Most Holy, our God and King, Creator of all that was, is, and is to come—
You alone know the heart of the one You have chosen as the successor to Pope Francis. Reveal Your will to the College of Cardinals. Open their hearts to Your inspirations. Open our hearts to receive, with faith and obedience, the one whom You will raise up to sit on the Chair of Saint Peter. May he be a man of deepest compassion, a man of profound faith and hope, a man whose charity shines forth, permeating the darkness of this world with the light of Christ. You are God Most High, the God of the living and the dead, the Great I AM, the Alpha and the Omega, Eternal Being and Source of all that is. May Your holy will be done, now and forever. Amen. Alleluia.

Merciful and loving God, We entrust to You today our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis, whom You have called from this life to Yourself. We thank You for his faithful and courageous witness to the Gospel, his compassion for the poor and the marginalized, and his tireless devotion to building bridges of peace and unity in Your Church. Receive him into the joy of Your eternal embrace. May he rest in the light of Your presence, where suffering and sorrow are no more, and every tear is wiped away. Comfort all who mourn his passing, and raise up shepherds who will continue to guide Your Church in humility and love.

Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May his gentle soul and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽

On this special feast day, as we continue to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, particularly Saint Joseph, Patron of the sick and dying, we pray for the sick and dying and all those who mourn the loss of their loved ones. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, especially for our Holy Father, POPE FRANCIS, all those who died today, and all the faithful departed may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their gentle souls and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯

“Blessed are those who have died in the Lord; let them rest from their labors for their good deeds go with them.” ~ Rev 14:13

PRAYER FOR THE DEAD: In your hands, O Lord, we humbly entrust our brothers and sisters. In this life, you embraced them with your tender love; deliver them now from every evil, and bid them eternal rest. The old order has passed away: welcome them into paradise, where there will be no sorrow, no weeping or pain, but fullness of peace and joy with your Son and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen 🙏🏽

As we continue to rejoice in the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, we celebrates two humble and radiant lights of Christ: Saint Anselm of Canterbury, Bishop and Doctor of the Church (patron of theologians and philosophers), and Saint Conrad of Parzham, a Capuchin lay brother known for his radical humility and deep Marian devotion (patron of doorkeepers and the Diocese of Passau). On this Good Shepherd Sunday, also known as Vocations Sunday, we reflect on their inspiring witness—one as a towering intellect and defender of the Church, and the other as a silent servant who saw Christ in every soul. Through their intercession, and under the loving gaze of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we lift our prayers today for vocations to the priesthood and religious life, for the sanctification of clergy, for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and for the suffering and abandoned—especially the poor and orphaned in these trying times.. 🙏🏽

DAILY REFLECTIONS WITH PHILOMENA | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

Daily Saints, Holy Mass, Holy Rosary, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Scripture Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/reflections/

Watch “HOLY MASS ON THE JUBILEE OF THE SICK AND HEALTHCARE WORKERS | Presided by H.E. Most Rev. Rino Fisichella | Live from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican | April 6, 2025” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/06/holy-mass-on-the-jubilee-of-the-sick-and-healthcare-workers/

WORLD PRAYERS FOR POPE FRANCIS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/02/26/world-prayers-for-pope-francis/

Honoring a Legacy of Service: The 10th Memorial Anniversary of Late Noble (Sir) Gabriel Louis Ihieje Opiepe (KSJI) | https://gliopiepehe.org/2025/04/12/honoring-a-legacy-of-service-the-10th-memorial-anniversary-of-late-noble-sir-gabriel-louis-ihieje-opiepe-ksji/

THE LITURGICAL YEAR IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/12/03/the-liturgical-year-in-the-catholic-church/

THE HOLY FATHER, POPE FRANCIS’ MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL: For the use of the new technologies ~ Let us pray that the use of the new technologies will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times.

PRAYER OF THE MONTH ~ POPE FRANCIS: Lord, Good Father, as I look at the world and see men and women working in it and beautifying it, a great “Thank You!” springs from my heart. The action of Your Spirit among us encourages us to grow in the progress of science and technology in the service of human dignity for integral and inclusive human development. Because we know You desire the good of all, 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/

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Monday in the Octave of Easter | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading

Today’s Bible Readings: Monday in the Octave of Easter | Monday, April 21, 2025
Reading 1: Acts 2:14, 22–33
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 16:1–2a, 5, 7–8, 9–10, 11
Gospel: Matthew 28:8–15

Gospel Reading ~ Matthew 28:8–15

“Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.”

“Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went away quickly from the tomb, fearful yet overjoyed, and ran to announce the news to his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them on their way and greeted them. They approached, embraced his feet, and did him homage. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.” While they were going, some of the guard went into the city and told the chief priests all that had happened. The chief priests assembled with the elders and took counsel; then they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers, telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came by night and stole him while we were asleep.’ And if this gets to the ears of the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” The soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has circulated among the Jews to the present day.”

In today’s Gospel reading, Mary Magdalene and the other women who used to follow the Lord Jesus, who were first to the tomb on Easter Sunday and found it empty, are also the first to whom the risen Lord appeared. This group of women are the primary witnesses to the resurrection, the first to proclaim the good news that Jesus is risen and that He will meet His disciples in Galilee. Today’s Gospel reading suggests that just as Jesus’ enemies did away with His earthly life, they also tried to do away with His risen life. In contrast to this group of women, the Gospel reading presents the chief priests and the elders of the people paying off the soldiers who guarded the tomb so that they would propagate the lie that Jesus’ body was stolen by His disciples. A meeting of the religious leaders was held at which it was decided that a story would be put out to explain why the tomb was empty early on the first day of the week. Jesus’ disciples came during the night and stole His body from the tomb. Not only was Jesus crucified as a criminal but His disciples were to be labelled as body snatchers. However, all of these efforts to suppress the good news of Jesus’ resurrection from the dead were in vain. The women proclaim the truth of the Gospel; the group of men in the Gospel reading proclaim a lie. We are all being asked to identify with the group of women. They were faithful to Jesus; they were present during His public ministry, at the cross and at the tomb. Because of their faithfulness, they are sent out as messengers of Easter joy. Our faithfulness will prompt the Lord to send us out too as messengers of Easter joy and hope, proclaiming Easter good news, the triumph of life over death, of God’s love over human sin.

Reflecting on the Gospel reading, as Mary Magdalene and the other Mary hurried away from the tomb, their hearts held a strange mix of fear and joy. The crucified Jesus was no longer in the grave. The tomb was empty, the angel’s message clear: “He is not here; He has risen.” And yet, even with this proclamation, the reality of the Resurrection hadn’t fully taken root in their hearts. But then, the unimaginable happened—Jesus Himself appeared to them. He greeted them with the gentleness of a Shepherd calling His sheep, and their only response was worship—they clung to His feet in awe and adoration. These women, once filled with sorrow, were now bearers of the greatest news the world would ever hear. Jesus’ command to them is equally for us today: “Do not be afraid. Go tell…” The Resurrection is not a secret to be kept but a truth to be shared. The Risen Lord meets us on the road of life, especially when we’re afraid, uncertain, or weighed down by grief. And in that encounter, He brings peace and purpose. These women, once silent followers, become the first evangelists of the Resurrection. They are entrusted with a divine message that death has been conquered and life has triumphed. In contrast, the Gospel also presents a darker reality—the attempt to suppress the truth. The guards, witnesses to the miracle, become instruments of falsehood, bribed to spread a lie. This juxtaposition reminds us that the Resurrection will always be met with resistance in the world. Lies will be spun, doubt will be sown, but the truth remains firm: Christ is risen, and He lives. This reading challenges us: will we be like the women who proclaim the truth with joy, or like the guards and elders who attempt to bury it with fear and deceit? The Risen Christ calls each of us by name. He meets us on our way, not to burden us, but to fill us with life. Let us, like the women at the tomb, run forward with hope, becoming bold witnesses to the living Jesus who walks with us still.

In our first reading today, St. Peter courageously proclaimed before all assembled people in Jerusalem at the moment right after the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles. The Apostles had been hiding in fear of the Jewish authorities and all who had threatened action against the Lord’s disciples and everyone who were found to be the followers of Christ, and thus they used to hide and avoid attention for those several weeks after the Lord’s Resurrection and later Ascension into Heaven. But through His Holy Spirit, the Lord inflamed in the hearts of the Apostles a great courage and desire to serve and love the Lord, the energy and power to proclaim the Good News and truth of God and His salvation among His people. Thus, we heard St. Peter speaking up with great courage and eloquence, with wisdom and zeal, in proclaiming the Lord’s glorious Resurrection and all that He had done in the midst of His people, reminding the people of the most loving sacrifice that He had made on the Cross. He proclaimed before all the people the Christ Crucified, Who had risen from the dead in glory.

Reflecting on the first reading, the reading presents Peter, once a man crippled by fear, now transformed by the Resurrection. Standing before a great crowd on Pentecost, Peter boldly proclaims Jesus as the one sent by God, attested by mighty works, crucified by human hands but raised by God. This is not the same Peter who denied Jesus three times. The Resurrection and the descent of the Holy Spirit have changed him from a hesitant follower into a fearless preacher. Peter’s words echo the eternal plan of God. Jesus’ death was not a tragedy beyond God’s control, but a divine offering that opened the gates of life. He reminds the people that King David foresaw the Resurrection when he said, “You will not abandon my soul to Hades.” Peter proclaims that Jesus, now raised, is “exalted at the right hand of God” and has poured out the Holy Spirit—an outpouring that empowers the Church to spread the Good News. This moment invites us to reflect: how have we allowed the truth of the Resurrection to transform our fear into courage, our silence into testimony? Like Peter, we are called to announce with boldness that Jesus is Lord and that His resurrection changes everything.

Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, “You will show me the path to life, fullness of joy in your presence.” The Psalm today sings of trust in God’s protection and joy in His presence. It echoes the Resurrection’s promise: that those who walk with God will not be abandoned to the grave. In times of sorrow or uncertainty, this psalm lifts our hearts to hope. It assures us that when we keep the Lord ever before us, we shall not be shaken. It is a song of Resurrection faith—a declaration that God’s promises are true and that eternal joy awaits those who cling to Him.

Have I allowed the truth of the Resurrection to reach the depths of my heart? Like the women at the tomb, am I quick to share the joy of the Risen Lord, or do I remain silent out of fear? In moments of doubt, do I remember God’s faithfulness and the promise of life eternal? Have I witnessed to others, not just in words, but in how I live with Resurrection hope each day? Let this Easter season be a time of renewed joy and courageous witness. The tomb is empty, and Christ is alive—this is the truth that must shape every part of our lives. Do not be afraid to proclaim it. Do not let fear or doubt silence the hope that has been placed in your heart. Be like the women who ran to tell the Good News. Be like Peter who stood firm in truth. Christ is risen—go and tell the world. 🙏🏽

As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, as we begin to embark through this journey of the Easter season in this Easter Octave, we are constantly being reminded of what we have to do as Christians in living our daily lives especially as we progress through this Easter season and beyond. We are reminded that our Christian faith is about proclaiming our Risen Lord and Saviour to the best of our ability, and to proclaim Him with joy and pride in our community and in whichever places we go to, following in the footsteps of the Apostles and Saints. Let us all therefore be filled with the Spirit of God this Easter season, and strive to do our best in proclaiming God’s truth, love, His Good News and salvation among those who have not yet known Him. May all of us be ever more committed and courageous in living our lives actively as Christians, so that in everything we do and say, in all of our interactions and dealings with one another, we will always be exemplary and be good sources of inspiration for our fellow Christians, and for many others out there who have not yet known the Lord and His truth yet. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace and may the joy, love, courage, strength and the guidance of Our Risen Lord be with us all, and may He bless us in our every actions and deeds, now and always, Amen. 🙏🏽

Risen Lord, You conquered death and brought life to the world. Like the women at the tomb, help me to recognize You when You draw near. Remove my fears and fill me with the courage to proclaim Your truth. Let my heart burn with the joy of the Resurrection, and may I be a living witness to Your victory over sin and death. Strengthen me, like Peter, to speak boldly of Your glory and to walk in the path of life. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINTS OF THE DAY: MEMORIAL OF SAINT ANSELM OF CANTERBURY, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH; AND SAINT CONRAD OF PARZHAM, RELIGIOUS – FEAST DAY: APRIL 21ST: Today, the Church celebrates two humble and radiant lights of Christ: Saint Anselm of Canterbury, Bishop and Doctor of the Church (patron of theologians and philosophers), and Saint Conrad of Parzham, a Capuchin lay brother known for his radical humility and deep Marian devotion (patron of doorkeepers and the Diocese of Passau). On this Good Shepherd Sunday, also known as Vocations Sunday, we reflect on their inspiring witness—one as a towering intellect and defender of the Church, and the other as a silent servant who saw Christ in every soul. Through their intercession, and under the loving gaze of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we lift our prayers today for vocations to the priesthood and religious life, for the sanctification of clergy, for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and for the suffering and abandoned—especially the poor and orphaned in these trying times.

“The Mother of God is our Mother. May the good Mother ask and beg for us, may she request and obtain what is good for us.” – St. Anselm

Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | April 21st | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

( Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Anselm and Saint Conrad | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-april-21st/)

SAINT ANSELM OF CANTERBURY (1033–1109): Saint Anselm, born in Aosta (modern-day Italy), was a brilliant Benedictine monk, philosopher, and theologian who laid the foundations for Scholasticism—an intellectual tradition that sought to harmonize faith and reason. Inspired by his devout mother, Anselm developed an early love for God but was prevented from joining the monastery by his stern father. After his mother’s death, Anselm left home and eventually entered the Abbey of Bec in Normandy, studying under the renowned Lanfranc.

Anselm rose to become prior, then abbot, and later Archbishop of Canterbury, succeeding Lanfranc in 1093. As archbishop, he boldly defended the rights of the Church against royal interference, even enduring exile twice to appeal to Rome. Despite political conflicts, Anselm never abandoned his monastic spirit, writing profound works like Proslogion, where he famously articulated the Ontological Argument for the existence of God.

He promoted devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and was the first in the West to officially observe the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. His philosophical and theological contributions greatly shaped Catholic thought, earning him the title of Doctor of the Church in 1720. Saint Anselm died in 1109 and is remembered for his sharp intellect, deep piety, and unwavering defense of ecclesial truth.

PRAYER: Saint Anselm, brilliant shepherd of the Church, guide us to love the truth and seek understanding. May your intercession strengthen our faith, enlighten our minds, and deepen our devotion to Christ and His Holy Church. Amen. 🙏

“O God, who raised up Saint Anselm to seek You with a scholar’s mind and a monk’s heart, grant that Your Church may always be enriched by devout teachers and faithful shepherds. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.”

SAINT CONRAD OF PARZHAM (1818–1894): Saint Conrad, born Johann Birndorfer in Bavaria, was a humble farm boy with a burning devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. After giving away his inheritance, he entered the Capuchin Franciscan Order at age 31 and received the name “Conrad.” Assigned as porter at the friary in Altötting—a national Marian shrine—he welcomed pilgrims and strangers alike with gentleness, compassion, and wisdom.

For over 40 years, Brother Conrad served at the door, often perceived as the silent heart of the monastery. He spent hours in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, often fasting and praying deep into the night. Despite his quiet role, many sought his counsel, believing he had the gifts of prophecy and reading souls. Known for his self-sacrifice, silence, and charity to the poor, Saint Conrad turned ordinary duties into extraordinary holiness.

He died on April 21, 1894, and was canonized in 1934. Saint Conrad is revered as a model of hidden sanctity—a witness that true greatness lies in faithfulness to the smallest tasks when done with great love.

PRAYER: Loving Father, through the quiet life of Saint Conrad, You revealed the power of humble service. Teach us to seek holiness in the hidden corners of our lives. May his example stir in us the desire to love You above all things and to serve others without counting the cost. Saint Conrad, pray for us. Amen. 🙏 🙏🏽

Saint Anselm and Saint Conrad ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽

DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF APRIL | MONTH OF HOLY EUCHARIST: April is dedicated to the Holy Eucharist, the greatest gift of Christ to His Church. In the Eucharist, Jesus is truly present Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity offering Himself as the Bread of Life. This month invites us to deepen our love and reverence for the Eucharist, especially as we approach Holy Week and Easter, celebrating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord. The Eucharist was instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper when He said, “Take and eat; this is My Body… Drink from it, all of you, for this is My Blood of the Covenant” (Matthew 26:26-28). In receiving the Eucharist, we are united with Christ and His Church. It is the source of our strength and the culmination of our salvation, as Christ Himself said in John 6:51, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.” As we journey through Lent, we are called to renew our reverence for the Eucharist. During Holy Week, we remember that Christ instituted this sacrament on Holy Thursday, offering us a way to remain in union with Him. Let us take this opportunity to attend Mass regularly, spend time in Eucharistic adoration, and reflect on the mystery of Christ’s presence in the Blessed Sacrament.

In this season of penance and reflection, may our devotion to the Eucharist strengthen our commitment to living as true disciples of Christ, leading us to the joy of Easter and the Resurrection.

O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Lord Jesus, You have given Yourself to us in the Eucharist. May we receive You with reverence and love, and let Your grace transform us this Lenten season and always. Amen 🙏🏽

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12540

PRAYER INTENTIONS: As we rejoice in the light of the Resurrection, we lift our hearts in prayer, asking for the grace to recognize Jesus in our midst, just as the apostles did. May the peace He breathed upon them be breathed into our troubled hearts and into every corner of the world. We pray for the grace to trust in the power of the Holy Spirit, especially in moments of fear and doubt. May we grow in courage and boldness to proclaim the Gospel through our words and actions. Through the intercession of Saint Anselm of Canterbury, a great defender of truth and a man of deep faith and intellect, may we seek understanding in our faith and find joy in contemplating the mysteries of God. May educators, theologians, and all who seek truth be guided by the light of Christ. May the Resurrection continue to renew the Church, our families, and our hearts, helping us to live as witnesses to the hope and mercy that flows from the empty tomb. Amen.🙏🏽

LET US PRAY

My resurrected Lord, You conquered sin and death and brought forth new life for all who believe in You. Give me the grace, dear Jesus, to never allow my sin of pride to keep me from being open to the glorious and transforming action You desire to do in my life. Please give me the gift of humility so that I may always turn from my sin and turn to You. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽

Risen Lord, breathe Your peace upon us as You did upon the apostles. Dispel every fear and doubt that keeps us from fully trusting in Your love. Grant us the grace to recognize You in our daily lives, especially in moments of silence and uncertainty. Through the prayers of Saint Anselm of Canterbury, inspire us to seek understanding, to pursue truth with humility, and to love You not only with our minds but with our whole hearts. As he did, may we treasure the mystery of faith and lead others to the joy of Your Resurrection. Strengthen our witness in the world, and help us to live as Easter people—full of hope, joy, and unwavering trust in Your victory over sin and death. Amen. 🙏🏽

Save Us Savior of the world. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Anselm and Saint Conrad ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽

Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day and the immeasurable love shown through His Son, our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. As we continue to rejoice in the glory of the Resurrection, may our hearts remain open to the peace and hope that flow from His victory over sin and death. During this joyful Easter season, we pray that our loving Savior will deepen our faith and draw us closer to the mystery of His Passion, death, and Resurrection. May we walk in the light of His risen life, renewed in spirit and overflowing with grace. Praying for us all andoour loved ones today and we pray for journey mercies for all those traveling during this Easter season. May this Easter Monday be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ is truly risen! Alleluia!

Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖

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