MEMORIAL OF SAINT ALEXIUS OF ROME, CONFESSOR AND THE BLESSED CARMELITE MARTYRS OF COMPIEGNE ~ FEAST DAY: JULY 17TH: Today, we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Alexius of Rome, Confessor and the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Compiegne. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary on this feast day, we humbly pray for the sick and dying, especially those suffering from cancers and other terminal diseases, we pray for God’s divine healing upon them. We pray for those going through difficulties during these challenging times, for the poor and the needy, for peace, love and unity in our families and our world. And we continue to pray for the Church, the Clergy, for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and Christians all over the world.🙏
SAINT ALEXIUS OF ROME, CONFESSOR: St. Alexius of Rome or Alexius of Edessa (or Alexis) is known as the “Man of God.” St. Alexius was a native of Rome, the son of Euphemianus, a wealthy Christian Roman of the senatorial class. He was born in Rome in the fourth century, was the only son of his parents pre-eminent among the Roman nobles for both their virtue and their great wealth. They were particularly noted for their almsgiving; three tables were prepared every day for all who came for assistance — pilgrims, the poor and the sick. Their son, St. Alexius fruit of their prayers, lived in poverty and service to the poor, despite wealthy upbringing and worldly opportunity. His parents arranged a marriage for him, but he had a divine calling to a higher vocation. St. Alexis was married with splendid feasting to a noble young lady of the imperial family, but on his wedding night, by God’s special inspiration, with permission from his fiance, he secretly fled Rome to Edessa in Syria to live in poverty and obscurity as a holy ascetic where he could serve God alone. He gave away all that he had brought with him, disguised himself as a beggar, unrecognized by all, he was content thereafter to live by alms at the gate of Our Lady’s church in that city. His family, in the deepest grief, could not fathom the mystery of his disappearance, and would have been consoled if God had taken him instead through death. It came to pass that the servants of Saint Alexius, whom his father had sent in search of him, arrived in Edessa, and seeing him among the poor at the gate of Our Lady’s church, gave him alms, not recognizing him. Whereupon the man of God, rejoicing, said, I thank You, Lord, who have called me and granted that I should receive for Your Name’s name’s sake an alms from my own slaves. Deign to fulfill in me the work You have begun. St. Alexius lived in this way for seventeen years.
After seventeen years spent at the portico or gateway of the church of Our Lady, a miraculous icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary (later this image was called Madonna of St Alexius) singled him out as a “Man of God”. His sanctity was miraculously confirmed by the Blessed Virgin, speaking through Her image to an officer of the church. When the fame of his sanctity spread in Edessa, once more he sought obscurity by flight, he moved back to Rome so that he could continue his hidden life. On his way to Tarsus contrary winds drove his ship to Rome. There no one recognized him, in this pale and tattered mendicant, the heir of Rome’s noblest house, not even his sorrowing parents, who had vainly sent throughout the world in search of him. From his own father’s charity St. Alexius begged a miserable shelter in his palace, he lived as a beggar under the very staircase of his father’s palace, with the leavings of his table as food, his true identity completely unknown to anyone. He lived in this way for another seventeen years bearing patiently the mockery and ill usage of his own servants, and witnessing daily the still inconsolable grief of his spouse and parents. He was befriended by other Christians, shared his alms with the poor, and taught catechism to children. At last, when death had ended this cruel martyrdom, they learned too late after his death, in the year 404, who it was that they had unknowingly sheltered. His identity was revealed through a document that he secretly carried on his person. A voice was heard by all in attendance at the Pope’s Mass, saying: Seek the man of God, he will pray for Rome, and the Lord will be favorable to it; he will die Friday. All the city undertook in vain to find this unknown Saint. But God had commanded St. Alexius himself to write down his life story and sign it, in this way He Himself confirmed His servant’s sanctity, when he was found lifeless in his retreat, holding that document in his hand. The Pope read aloud what was written on the parchment of the Saint, and everywhere in Rome there was a single cry of admiration, impossible to describe. The house of St. Alexius’ father Euphemianus was later transformed into a church dedicated to Saint Alexius in his honor.
REFLECTION: St. Alexius faith and piety was attested to by the Blessed Virgin, who spoke through a holy painting, revealing him to be a “Man of God” to those who regarded him as a beggar. The life of Saint Alexius reminds us that appearances are not what is important to the Lord, but rather the holy fire burning within the heart and soul of the faithful. He’s the Patron Saint of beggars and pilgrims. St. Alexius’ feast day is July 17.
Saint Alexius of Rome, Confessor ~ Pray for us 🙏
THE BLESSED CARMELITE MARTYRS OF COMPIEGNE: The Blessed Carmelite martyrs of Compiègne, Mother Teresa of St Augustine and Companions, sixteen of them were executed on July 17, 1794 during the French Revolution. They were guillotined at the Place du Trône Renversé (now called Place de la Nation), in Paris. When the revolution started in 1789, a group of twenty-one discalced Carmelites lived in a monastery in Compiegne France, founded in 1641. The monastery was ordered closed in 1790 by the Revolutionary government, and the nuns were disbanded. Sixteen of the nuns were accused of living in a religious community in 1794. The Sisters had refused to comply with the Civil Constitution of the Clergy, a law passed in 1790, which subordinated the Catholic Church to the revolutionary government, confiscated all Church land and banned religious orders. The Carmelites of Compiègne resisted the suppression of their monastery and so were arrested in June 1794 and imprisoned at the former Visitation convent of Compiègne, where they offered themselves daily for the peace of France and the Church.
On July 12, 1794, the Carmelites were taken to Paris and five days later were tried and convicted of treason and sentenced to death by guillotine on July 17th. Providentially, they were wearing their outlawed religious habits, since their only secular clothes were being washed on the day of the trial. The Sisters were then transported in tumbrels among a group of 40 condemned prisoners to the place of execution at the Place du Trône, Paris. On the journey, the Sisters chanted the combined Offices of Vespers and Compline. This included the Miserere, the penitential Psalm 50: “Have mercy on me, O God, in your kindness…” and concluded with the Salve Regina (“Hail Holy Queen”) and Veni Creator (“Come, Holy Spirit”). Eyewitness accounts report that the usually hostile crowds along the route were strangely silent. On reaching the place of execution, Mother Teresa intoned the Te Deum, and then the Veni Creator Spiritus. On reaching the scaffold, all the Sisters renewed the vows of their Baptism and religious profession and Sr Constance, the youngest and still a novice, joined in, thus making Profession before mounting the scaffold. Sr Constance was the first to die, after kneeling for the blessing of her Prioress, and kissing a small staute of Our Lady. As she approached the guillotine, she intoned Laudate Dominum Omnes Gentes(Psalm 117) : “O praise the Lord, all you nations; acclaim him all you peoples. Strong is his love for us; he is faithful for ever.” This was taken up by all the Sisters, who continued to sing, then as they individually went forth to give their lives for their Divine Bridegroom they kept singing “Praise the Lord, all you nations” in steadily diminishing chorus. They thus bore a unique collective witness to Christ, with a joy that no one could take from them! Usually executions were accompanied by shouting and cheers but there was only silence. Sr Constance waved aside the executioner and his two assistants and approached the guillotine unaided. It is likely that the executions continued in order of religious profession. We know that Mother Teresa was the last. The 78 year old Sr Mary of Jesus Crucified was heard to say to the executioners “I forgive you, my friends. I forgive you with all that longing of heart with which I would that God forgive me!” The bodies of the Carmelites were buried in a Mass grave at Picpus Cemetery.
Many believe that the sacrifice of Mother Teresa of St Augustine and her community brought about the end of the ‘Reign of Terror’, which happened just 10 days later on July 27, 1794. Their story has captured the popular imagination, inspiring a novella by Gertrud von le Fort, a play by Georges Bernanos and an opera by Francis Poulenc. They were beatified by Pope St Pius X on May 27, 1906. There is a British connection with the Compiègne Martyrs. The English Benedictine community of Cambrai were ejected from their monastery in 1792 and imprisoned at Compiègne. From June 1794, the Carmelites joined them, although they were detained separately. The Benedictine community testified to the holiness of the Compiègne sisters and believed that the Carmelites’ martyrdom saved their own lives. It may also be that their English nationality prevented them from being executed for treason. They remained in prison until April 1795, and were then banished to England, where they eventually settled at Stanbrook Abbey. Their only ‘possessions’ were the secular clothes of the Carmelites, which they wore. The surviving pieces of cloth and one espadrille are now venerated at Stanbrook as relics.
PRAYER: God, You surround and protect us by the glorious confession of Your holy Martyrs. Help us to profit from their example and be supported by their prayers. Amen 🙏
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | July 17, 2025 | “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-daily-mass-131/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family!
Today is Thursday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time! We give thanks to God for the gift of life and the grace to see this month. During this month of July, may the Precious Blood of Jesus cover and protect us, heal our wounds, and strengthen our faith. We pray for all those celebrating their birthdays, anniversaries, new beginnings, and special moments in this month of July. May God’s blessings overflow in their lives. May this month bring peace to troubled hearts, direction to the lost, comfort to the grieving, and strength to the weary. In all things, may His will be done and His name be glorified. Amen🙏🏽
PRAYER AND APPRECIATION FOR THE CLERGY AND RELIGIOUS:
“The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching” ~ 1 Timothy 5:17
“Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.” ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:12–13
We thank God for the gift of life and especially thank Him for blessing us all with the special gift of the Clergy, who have sacrificed their lives to serve in the Lord’s Vineyard.
We pray for the Church, the Clergy, our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, the Cardinals, Bishops, all Priests, all religious men and women, that they be sanctified in their ministry to God’s people. We thank them for their faithful, dedicated, and loving service to the people of God. Praying for God’s wisdom, knowledge, and good health of body and mind upon them. Amen 🙏🏽
With special intention for all Priests who are going through mental health challenges. May the good Lord heal them and grant them peace, and may our Blessed Mother Mary comfort them as they go through challenging times. May we, the faithful, also be instruments of God’s peace and comfort to them, offering our understanding and support in tangible ways. Amen 🙏🏽
For the repose of the gentle soul of Rev. Fr. Matteo Bolzano and souls of all the faithful departed. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon them. May their gentle souls through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ… Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯
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 & the Holy Spirit forever & ever. Amen 🙏🏽
PRAYER FOR VICTIMS OF NATURAL DISASTERS: We join our prayers to the prayers of others throughout the world, for the victims of natural disasters which have brought destruction and disaster to so many countless lives. We particularly pray for the victims of the recent flooding in Central Texas, may God restore what was lost and console all those who are grieving, injured, or have lost loved ones. Eternal rest grant unto those who lost their lives and let perpetual light shine upon them. Amen 🙏🏽
On this special feast day, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, we humbly pray for justice, peace, love and unity in our families and our divided and conflicted world today. We continue to pray for all families and for the safety and well-being of our children and children all over the world. We pray for all those who are marginalized in our society, the poor and the needy. We pray for the Church, the Clergy, our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, the Cardinals, Bishops, all Priests, that they be sanctified in their ministry to God’s people. We pray for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and Christians all over the world suffering from political and religious unrest. May God protect us all and keep united in peace, love and faith. Amen 🙏🏽
We continue to pray for the sick and dying. We especially pray for our loved ones who have recently died and we continue to pray for the repose of their gentle souls and the 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 through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ… Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯
Through the intercession of St. Joseph, we pray for all fathers, workers and all those who labour in this world. May the Lord bless the work of their hands and may God’s grace and mercy be with us all during this season of the Ordinary Time. Wishing us all and our loved ones a joyful, peaceful, and grace-filled month of July.🙏🏽
Today’s Bible Readings for Thursday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time | July 17, 2025 Reading 1: Exodus 3:13–20 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 105:1 and 5, 8–9, 24–25, 26–27 Gospel: Matthew 11:28–30
Gospel Reading ~ Matthew 11:28–30
“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Jesus said: “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”
In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus addresses Himself to those who were burdened. We can all find ourselves burdened for many reasons. We may feel overworked; some relationship in our lives may have become a burden over time; we may struggle with ill health occasionally. We can be left feeling burdened for all kinds of reasons. In the Gospel reading, Jesus addresses His words to those who felt burdened by the demands of the Jewish Law. These were demands they struggled to meet, and in failing to meet them they felt themselves to be religious outcasts. To such people, Jesus does not offer a new law. Rather, He offers them Himself; He calls them and all of us into a personal relationship with Himself. ‘Come to me’, He says, ‘learn from me’. We are to come to Him and learn from Him; He is a teacher whose teaching is visible in His person, in who He is and how He lives. To learn from someone, we need to be around them over time. In saying, ‘Come’, Jesus is really saying, ‘Come and remain’. We are called into an ongoing relationship with the Lord. It is in and through that relationship that we learn to live as He calls us to live, as He wants us to live. We live out of our relationship with Him, or more fundamentally, out of His relationship with us, because it is He who initiates that relationship, it is He who keeps on saying to us ‘Come’. He promises us that if we come to Him and remain with Him, we will discover that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Yes, his way of life is demanding, but His relationship with us and ours with Him makes it much less demanding than it would otherwise be. As Saint Paul says in one of his letters, ‘His power at work within us is able to accomplish immeasurably far more than all we can ask or imagine’. It is by remaining in Jesus, as branches in the vine that our lives will bear much fruit.
In the Gospel, the words of. Jesus offering one of the most tender invitations in all of Scripture: an open call to the weary and burdened to find rest in Him are not merely poetic they are deeply personal and profoundly healing. Life places countless demands on us, and many carry silent burdens: grief, anxiety, guilt, exhaustion, fear of the unknown. Yet Jesus sees every weight we bear and responds not with condemnation, but with a gentle invitation: Come to Me. What He offers is not just physical rest, but a rest of the soul a peace that surpasses understanding. His yoke, though still a call to discipleship, is light because it is carried with love and grace. In contrast to the harsh demands of the world or our own perfectionism, Jesus teaches with humility and patience. He walks with us and helps us shoulder the load. This passage reminds us that our strength is not in striving alone but in surrendering our burdens into the hands of the One who truly cares. When we align our lives with His way marked by love, humility, and obedience we discover a freedom that the world cannot offer. Rest is not the absence of work, but the presence of Christ. Let us listen to His voice today and come to Him not only when life is overwhelming but as a daily act of trust. He is waiting with open arms to exchange our burdens for His peace.
In the first reading, we encounter the profound moment when God reveals His divine name to Moses from the burning bush: “I AM who AM.” This moment is not just a linguistic or theological revelation it’s a declaration of God’s eternal presence and faithfulness. God is not a distant or abstract force; He is the living, active One who sees the affliction of His people and comes to rescue them. Moses, uncertain and hesitant, asks what he should say if the Israelites ask for God’s name. God’s reply emphasizes His essence: unchanging, ever-present, faithful through generations. The Lord then outlines His plan to deliver Israel from Egypt a plan that includes resistance and suffering but will culminate in liberation through divine power. This passage reveals that God not only knows our suffering but is concerned with it. His response is not passive but a decision to act, to stretch out His hand with mighty deeds. For us, this speaks to the heart of who God is: not just the Creator, but the Rescuer. Even when the journey seems delayed or the burden feels heavy, God assures us that He is at work. His name is a promise that He is with us, for us, and never failing. Like Moses, we may feel unqualified or afraid, but God’s presence is our strength. He does not call us to walk alone; He equips and empowers those He sends.
Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, “The Lord remembers His covenant forever.” This repeated refrain invites us to reflect on the unwavering fidelity of God. The psalm recounts how God made promises to Abraham and Isaac and upheld them through generations even when His people suffered in Egypt. It speaks of a God who remembers, who acts, who raises leaders like Moses and Aaron to fulfill His saving plan. What comfort there is in knowing that God never forgets His promises! Even in seasons of suffering, silence, or confusion, His covenant remains firm. He sees beyond the moment and is always working toward His redemptive purposes. This Psalm urges us to give thanks, to proclaim His deeds, and to remember His faithfulness. When we look back on our own lives how God has led, rescued, and restored us we too can say with confidence: the Lord remembers His covenant. Gratitude is the key to remembering, and remembering renews our hope for the future.
As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we are called to ponder on the Scriptures. What burdens am I carrying that Jesus is inviting me to lay down today? Have I been trying to handle life on my own strength instead of coming to Him for rest? Do I truly believe He is meek and humble of heart, ready to walk with me? Like Moses, am I resisting God’s call out of fear or uncertainty, forgetting that He goes with me? Do I trust that God sees my struggles and is already working behind the scenes for my good? Have I remembered to thank God for the times He remained faithful even when I doubted? Today’s readings call us to come close to the heart of God to trust His name, His plan, and His promise. He is not only calling us to act or believe but to rest in Him. Will I respond to that invitation? Let us not carry alone what Christ longs to bear with us. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace and today, may He open our hearts to His rest, trust in His presence, and walk forward with renewed peace. He is faithful, He is near, and He is enough.
Lord Jesus, I come to You with the burdens I carry some known, some hidden deep within. You who are meek and humble of heart, teach me to walk in step with You. Help me to surrender what I cannot bear alone. In the moments of uncertainty, like Moses, remind me that You are I AM ever-present, faithful, and true. May I not harden my heart, but open it to Your healing rest. Let me trust that even in the silence, You remember Your covenant. Be my strength, my peace, and my refuge. Amen. 🙏🏽
MEMORIAL OF SAINT ALEXIUS OF ROME, CONFESSOR AND THE BLESSED CARMELITE MARTYRS OF COMPIEGNE: ~ FEAST DAY: JULY 17TH: Today, we honor two extraordinary examples of hidden sanctity and courageous witness: Saint Alexius of Rome, Confessor (Patron of beggars, pilgrims, and the poor), a nobleman turned beggar for Christ; and the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Compiègne (Patronesses of courage, perseverance, and religious freedom), sixteen consecrated women who offered their lives for the peace of France and the triumph of the Church. Through the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary on this solemn feast, we lift up in prayer the sick and dying, especially those afflicted by cancer and terminal illness; for the poor and abandoned; for all experiencing trials of faith or personal suffering. We pray for peace in families and nations, for strength and perseverance among the clergy and religious, for persecuted Christians worldwide, and for the conversion of hearts ours and others. May we, like today’s saints, be faithful in both silence and sacrifice. 🙏🏽
SAINT ALEXIUS OF ROME, CONFESSOR: “Man of God” and witness of humility. Saint Alexius, also known as Alexius of Edessa, was born into Roman nobility in the fourth century. His parents, renowned for their wealth and charitable works, raised him in deep Christian faith. Though betrothed to a noble bride, Alexius discerned a higher call and, with his fiancée’s blessing, left Rome on the night of his wedding to live a hidden life of poverty and prayer in Edessa.
For seventeen years, Alexius lived anonymously at the steps of a church dedicated to Our Lady, surviving on alms and dedicating his days to silence, penance, and intercession. When his sanctity was miraculously revealed by the Blessed Virgin through a holy icon, Alexius seeking to remain hidden returned to Rome. Unrecognized, even by his own grieving parents, he was given shelter beneath the staircase of his father’s home. There, he endured hardship, mockery, and obscurity for another seventeen years, finding joy in the will of God and the sorrows of Christ.
At his death in 404 A.D., a document found in his hand revealed his true identity and holy life. His sanctity was publicly affirmed by divine revelation at a papal Mass. The house where he lived incognito became a church in his honor.
Reflection: Saint Alexius reminds us that greatness in God’s eyes is found not in status or recognition, but in the quiet fidelity of a soul wholly surrendered to Him. His life is a testament to divine intimacy in hiddenness.
PRAYER: Saint Alexius, hidden pilgrim of Christ, who gave up honor, wealth, and comfort to embrace humility and suffering for love of God, intercede for us. Teach us to let go of pride and live in holy detachment. May your example awaken in us a deeper trust in Divine Providence and a greater love for the poor. Help us to serve quietly, love generously, and surrender joyfully to God’s will. Amen.🙏🏽
THE BLESSED CARMELITE MARTYRS OF COMPIÈGNE: On July 17, 1794, during the violent days of the French Revolution, Mother Teresa of St. Augustine and fifteen Carmelite Sisters of Compiègne gave their lives in a powerful witness of faith, unity, and joyful surrender. Accused of treason for their refusal to renounce their vows and abandon religious life, they were imprisoned and ultimately condemned to death.
As they were transported to the guillotine at the Place du Trône (now Place de la Nation), the nuns chanted psalms, hymns, and prayers with calm and devotion. Upon arrival, they renewed their religious vows aloud and, one by one, ascended the scaffold singing “Laudate Dominum, omnes gentes.” The youngest, Sister Constance, made her final profession moments before her martyrdom. The last to die was their Prioress, Mother Teresa, leading her daughters to the end with peace and maternal courage. Witnesses described an eerie silence from the usual hostile crowd a silence of awe. Ten days later, the Reign of Terror collapsed, and many believe their sacrifice played a key role in ending the bloodshed. Their joyful martyrdom continues to inspire the Church worldwide. Reflection: The Carmelites of Compiègne teach us that even in the darkest hour, the soul anchored in Christ can sing. They offered their lives with serenity and love, not for glory or revenge, but for peace and for the Church. Their voices echo a hymn of fearless love that no guillotine could silence. Beatified: May 27, 1906, by Pope St. Pius X
PRAYER: O God, who raised up Saint Alexius in hidden holiness and the Carmelite Martyrs in radiant courage, grant that we may follow their example humble in our daily duties, brave in the face of opposition, and steadfast in prayer. May their intercession strengthen the weak, console the suffering, and inspire the Church to holiness in every age. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
Our Blessed Mother Mary Saint Alexius of Rome and The Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Compiègne ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF JULY: For formation in discernment. Let us pray that we might again learn how to discern, to know how to choose paths of life and reject everything that leads us away from Christ and the Gospel.
DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF JULY | MONTH OF THE MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD OF JESUS: July is dedicated to the Most Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ a profound devotion that honors the redeeming power of Christ’s Blood shed for our salvation. Flowing from His Sacred Heart, this Blood is the price of our redemption, the source of grace in the sacraments, and the seal of the New Covenant. It reminds us that salvation was not won lightly, but through the ultimate sacrifice of love. This month, the Church invites us to meditate on the infinite value of Christ’s Blood poured out during His Passion from Gethsemane to Calvary and in every celebration of the Holy Eucharist. We are called to offer acts of reparation for the sins of the world and to intercede for the conversion of souls. Devotions such as the Litany of the Precious Blood, the Chaplet of the Precious Blood, and daily consecration to the Precious Blood help deepen our union with Christ crucified.
As Saint John Chrysostom once said, “The Precious Blood is the salvation of souls; it purifies, sanctifies, and strengthens.” In our trials, let us take refuge beneath the cross, trusting in the Blood that speaks of mercy, victory, and eternal life.
“Precious Blood of Jesus, save us and the whole world.”
O Most Precious Blood of Jesus, fountain of salvation, we adore You. Wash us clean of sin, protect us from evil, and draw us into deeper love and union with You. Amen. 🙏🏽
PRAYER INTENTIONS: With hearts made tender by Christ’s invitation “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened” we lift our prayers for the weary, the sick, and those burdened by fear, poverty, or grief. May they find rest in the mercy of Jesus and strength in His gentle heart. We pray for the poor and the abandoned, following the witness of Saint Alexius who chose obscurity for the sake of love, and for all religious and consecrated persons, inspired by the courage of the Carmelite Martyrs of Compiègne. May their silent sacrifices teach us to bear our daily crosses with faith. We remember those suffering persecution, especially Christians in hostile regions, and we ask for peace in our hearts, our families, and our world. May God stir up in us the courage to trust Him more deeply and to serve Him more freely.
LET US PRAY
My gentle Lord, You came to us to serve and to give Your life out of love. Give me the grace I need to accept Your act of service to me and to also imitate and participate in the service to which I am called. May I take Your yoke upon me, dear Lord, so that I can fulfill the mission that You have entrusted to me. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽
Loving Father, You see the burdens we carry and the rest our souls seek. In Your compassion, draw us nearer to the heart of Your Son. Through the intercession of Saint Alexius and the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs, grant us the grace to suffer with patience, serve with humility, and live with unwavering hope. May we respond to Your call each day with trust, and rest in the quiet power of Your presence. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Alexius of Rome and The Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Compiègne ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽
Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you. Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for us. Amen 🙏🏽
Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day, and as we now enter the gentle rhythm of Ordinary Time, may our hearts remain open to the quiet working of the Holy Spirit who continues to guide, renew, and strengthen us each day. May this new month be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ walks with us always. Alleluia! Have a blessed, grace-filled and safe Thursday and fruitful week ahead 🙏🏽
FEAST OF OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL AND MEMORIAL OF SAINT MARIE MAGDALEN POSTEL, RELIGIOUS ~ FEAST DAY: JULY 16TH: Today, we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Also known as the feast of the “Scapular of Mount Carmel”. On this day, we also celebrate the Memorial Saint Marie Magdalen Postel, Religious. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary on this special feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, we humbly pray for the sick and dying, especially those suffering from terminal diseases, we pray for God’s divine healing upon them. We pray for those going through difficulties during these challenging times, for the poor and the needy, for peace, love, and unity in our families and our world. And we continue to pray for the Church, the Clergy, for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and Christians all over the world.🙏
FEAST OF OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL: The Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (1251 A.D.), also known as the feast of the “Scapular of Mount Carmel” is one of the Marian feasts and celebrations of the year, a title of the Blessed Virgin Mary associated with the Carmelite Order. Today is the principal feast day of the Carmelite Order. The Order of Carmelites takes its name from Mount Carmel, which was the first place dedicated to the Blessed Virgin and where a chapel was erected in her honor before her Assumption into heaven. The first Carmelites lived as hermits on Mount Carmel in the Holy Land beginning in the 12th century. In the middle of their hermitages, they built a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary, who became the protectress of the Carmelites under the title of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Through the efforts of the crusader Berthold, a group of hermits living on Mount Carmel were organized into an Order after the traditional Western type about the year 1150. Oppressed by the Saracens, the monks slowly emigrated to Europe. During the night preceding the sixteenth of July, 1225, the Blessed Virgin is said to have commanded Pope Honorius III to approve the foundation. Since the Carmelites were still under constant harassment, the sixth General of the Order, St. Simon Stock, pleaded with the Blessed Virgin for some special sign of her protection. The Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to the Carmelite hermit, St. Simon Stock, under this title and gave him a piece of cloth—the brown scapular—as a sacramental to be worn by the faithful to whom she promised her special protection. On July 16, 1251, she designated the scapular as the special mark of her maternal love. That is why the present feast is also known as the feast of the Scapular. The scapular, as part of the habit, is common to many religious Orders, but it is a special feature of the Carmelites. A smaller form of the scapular is given to lay persons in order that they may share in the great graces associated with it. Such a grace is the “Sabbatine privilege.” In the so-called Bulla Sabbatina John XXII affirmed that wearers of the scapular are soon freed from the flames of purgatory, at least by the Saturday after death. The confirmation of the Bulla Sabbatina was promulgated by the Sacred Congregation of Indulgences, July 4, 1908.
Devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel is worldwide, and most Catholics are familiar with the Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, also known as the Brown Scapular. When our Mother Mary appeared to St. Simon Stock on July 16, 1251, she gave him the scapular with the following words, which are preserved in a fourteenth century narrative: “This will be for you and for all Carmelites the privilege, that he who dies in this will not suffer eternal fire.” To obtain the indulgences and other benefits promised to those who wear the Carmelite Scapular, a person must be invested by a priest who has the requisite faculties and must lead a consistent Christian life. The feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel was instituted for the Carmelites in 1332, and extended to the whole Church by Benedict XIII in 1726. Our Lady of Mount Carmel is the Patron Saint of the Carmelites.
“Take this Scapular. Whosoever dies wearing it shall not suffer eternal fire. It shall be a sign of salvation, a protection in danger and pledge of peace.”
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. Behold the handmaid of the Lord: Be it done unto me according to Thy word.🙏
PRAYER: May the venerable intercession of the glorious Virgin Mary come to our aid, we pray, O Lord, so that, fortified by her protection, we may reach the mountain which is Christ. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever… Amen🙏
SAINT MARIE MAGDALEN POSTEL, RELIGIOUS: St. Marie Magdalen Postel (1756–1846) was born in a fishing village in Normandy, one of seven children of a middle class family. As a child she became famous for her generosity; she would often give her food and belongings to the needy, acts for which she was often rebuked. She was educated by Benedictine nuns and decided to devote her life to the service of God. She took a private vow of chastity, and at the age of 18 opened her own school for girls. This began her life mission dedicated to the education of children. The school ran for five years until the French Revolution shut it down. During that time of great turmoil she used the school to house fugitive priests. She also encouraged the faithful amidst the terrible persecution, and was granted special permission to keep in her possession the Blessed Sacrament to give to those who were in immediate danger of death.
She continued her work in education after the unrest subsided, founding a religious community called ‘The Poor Daughters of Mercy’ living under the rule of the Third Order of St. Francis. The community was later renamed ‘Sisters of the Christian Schools of Mercy’ taking the rule of St. John Baptist de la Salle, founder of the Christian Brothers, a religious order dedicated to the education of children. St. Marie Magdalen’s school for girls was so effective that it was declared the best-run organization of its kind. St. Marie Magdalen Postel died at the age of 90 after seeing her community grow and spread. Her feast day is July 16th.
Saint Marie Magdalen Postel, Religious ~ Pray for us 🙏
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | July 16, 2025 | “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-daily-mass-130/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family!
Today is Wednesday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time! We give thanks to God for the gift of life and the grace to see this month. During this month of July, may the Precious Blood of Jesus cover and protect us, heal our wounds, and strengthen our faith. We pray for all those celebrating their birthdays, anniversaries, new beginnings, and special moments in this month of July. May God’s blessings overflow in their lives. May this month bring peace to troubled hearts, direction to the lost, comfort to the grieving, and strength to the weary. In all things, may His will be done and His name be glorified. Amen🙏🏽
PRAYER AND APPRECIATION FOR THE CLERGY AND RELIGIOUS:
“The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching” ~ 1 Timothy 5:17
“Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.” ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:12–13
We thank God for the gift of life and especially thank Him for blessing us all with the special gift of the Clergy, who have sacrificed their lives to serve in the Lord’s Vineyard.
We pray for the Church, the Clergy, our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, the Cardinals, Bishops, all Priests, all religious men and women, that they be sanctified in their ministry to God’s people. We thank them for their faithful, dedicated, and loving service to the people of God. Praying for God’s wisdom, knowledge, and good health of body and mind upon them. Amen 🙏🏽
With special intention for all Priests who are going through mental health challenges. May the good Lord heal them and grant them peace, and may our Blessed Mother Mary comfort them as they go through challenging times. May we, the faithful, also be instruments of God’s peace and comfort to them, offering our understanding and support in tangible ways. Amen 🙏🏽
For the repose of the gentle soul of Rev. Fr. Matteo Balzano and souls of all the faithful departed. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon them. May their gentle souls through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ… Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯
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 & the Holy Spirit forever & ever. Amen 🙏🏽
PRAYER FOR VICTIMS OF NATURAL DISASTERS: We join our prayers to the prayers of others throughout the world, for the victims of natural disasters which have brought destruction and disaster to so many countless lives. We particularly pray for the victims of the recent flooding in Central Texas, may God restore what was lost and console all those who are grieving, injured, or have lost loved ones. Eternal rest grant unto those who lost their lives and let perpetual light shine upon them. Amen 🙏🏽
On this special feast day, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, we humbly pray for justice, peace, love and unity in our families and our divided and conflicted world today. We continue to pray for all families and for the safety and well-being of our children and children all over the world. We pray for all those who are marginalized in our society, the poor and the needy. We pray for the Church, the Clergy, our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, the Cardinals, Bishops, all Priests, that they be sanctified in their ministry to God’s people. We pray for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and Christians all over the world suffering from political and religious unrest. May God protect us all and keep united in peace, love and faith. Amen 🙏🏽
We continue to pray for the sick and dying. We especially pray for our loved ones who have recently died and we continue to pray for the repose of their gentle souls and the 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 through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ… Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯
Through the intercession of St. Joseph, we pray for all fathers, workers and all those who labour in this world. May the Lord bless the work of their hands and may God’s grace and mercy be with us all during this season of the Ordinary Time. Wishing us all and our loved ones a joyful, peaceful, and grace-filled month of July.🙏🏽
Today’s Bible Readings for Wednesday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time | July 16, 2025 Reading 1: Exodus 3:1–6, 9–12 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 103:1b–2, 3–4, 6–7 Gospel: Matthew 11:25–27
Gospel Reading ~ Matthew 11:25–27
“Although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike”
“At that time Jesus exclaimed: “I give praise to you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal Him.”
In today’s Gospel, Jesus draws a sharp distinction between what He calls ‘the learned and the clever’ and ‘mere children’. He offers a joyful prayer of thanksgiving to the Father for revealing the mysteries of the Kingdom not to the elite or scholarly, but to the childlike those who approach God with simplicity, humility, and openness. The term ‘children’ or ‘little ones’ is probably a reference to Jesus’ disciples who would not have been considered learned and clever at the time. The learned and the clever were the experts in the Jewish Law, those who considered themselves to have a clear understanding of God and God’s will. Many of Jesus’ disciples were anything but experts in the Jewish Law but would have been considered ‘sinners’, breakers of the law, by the religious experts. Yet, it was these people who were open to Jesus’ revelation of God, whereas the learned and clever rejected Jesus’ revelation of God. When it comes to matters of faith, we need to keep acknowledging how little we know, and how far we have yet to travel in coming to know God with our mind and our heart. This is what Jesus refers to elsewhere in Matthew’s Gospel as poverty of spirit. It is to the poor in spirit that the kingdom of God belongs. It is the awareness of our own poverty of spirit, mind and heart, that disposes us to receive God’s gift of His Son. Jesus assures us in the Gospel reading that when we receive the Lord out of our poverty, we will be enriched, because we will be taken up into Jesus’ own intimate relationship with God His Father.
Today’s Gospel is a tender and powerful reminder that intimacy with God is not a matter of intellectual brilliance, but of a trusting heart. The mysteries of faith are not inaccessible, but they require us to let go of pride and self-reliance and embrace childlike wonder. Jesus reveals the heart of the Father, and He tells us plainly that no one can know the Father except through Him. Our relationship with God is not something we can achieve on our own; it is a gift made possible through the Son. This challenges us to consider: do we approach God with the posture of a child teachable, dependent, and full of wonder or with a heart hardened by cynicism or pride? When we embrace our smallness before God, He reveals truths that the proud may never grasp. The Kingdom belongs to those who are little enough to receive it.
In today’s first reading, the encounter between Moses and God at the burning bush is one of the most profound moments in salvation history. Moses, once a prince of Egypt and now a humble shepherd in exile, comes upon a bush aflame but not consumed a symbol of God’s divine presence and holiness. As Moses draws near, God calls him by name, instructs him to remove his sandals, and declares the ground holy. This moment reveals God as personal, attentive, and powerful. He sees the suffering of His people and calls Moses to be His instrument of liberation. Yet Moses is hesitant: “Who am I that I should go?” His fear and sense of inadequacy mirror our own when faced with God’s call. But God does not focus on Moses’s ability He simply promises, “I will be with you.” The power of our mission does not rest in our strength, but in God’s presence. This reading reminds us that every encounter with God is sacred, and every calling is backed by His grace. We may feel unworthy or afraid, but if God calls, He also equips.
Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, “The Lord is kind and merciful.” Psalm 103 is a beautiful hymn of praise to the God who heals, forgives, and redeems. The psalmist does not hide his pain or brokenness; instead, he brings it into the light of God’s kindness and mercy. God is not distant or indifferent. He is the One who lifts the lowly, secures justice for the oppressed, and reveals His ways to the humble. In our wounds and weaknesses, God draws near not with condemnation, but with compassion. This psalm invites us to remember the goodness of God even in our struggles. In doing so, we find hope, healing, and the strength to bless His name with our whole being.
As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we are called to ponder on the Scriptures. Have I grown too reliant on my own understanding or status, neglecting the simplicity of childlike faith? Do I allow pride or self-sufficiency to hinder my intimacy with God? Like Moses, am I hesitant to respond to God’s call because I feel inadequate, or do I trust that His presence is enough? Do I recognize the holy ground in my daily encounters the places where God is calling my attention? Am I praising God only in good times, or do I, like the psalmist, turn to Him in my need, confident in His mercy and justice? Today’s readings call us to rediscover the beauty of childlike faith, the awe of God’s holiness, and the reassurance of His mercy. God reveals Himself not to those who think they know everything, but to those who come empty-handed and open-hearted. Like Moses, we may question our worthiness to serve or our ability to respond to His call but God’s promise remains: “I will be with you.” Whether you find yourself in a moment of encounter, uncertainty, or hidden preparation, know that you are on holy ground. Approach with reverence, respond with humility, and trust with confidence that the God who calls you is the God who sustains you. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace and may our lives reflect the wonder, obedience, and praise that today’s Scriptures invite.
Lord Jesus, You rejoice in the humble and reveal the Father to those who seek You with simplicity of heart. Teach me to let go of pride and open my heart like a child, eager to learn, trust, and follow. Like Moses, help me to recognize Your voice and presence, even in the quiet places of my life. Give me the courage to say yes when You call and the grace to know that Your presence is enough. I praise You for Your kindness and mercy steady and unfailing. May my soul bless You with gratitude, even in times of weakness. Amen🙏🏽
FEAST OF OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL AND MEMORIAL OF SAINT MARIE MAGDALEN POSTEL, RELIGIOUS ~ FEAST DAY: JULY 16TH: Today, we celebrate the radiant Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Patroness of the Carmelite Order and all who wear the Brown Scapular), a beloved Marian title through which the Blessed Virgin Mary offers her maternal protection to those who seek refuge under her mantle. We also honor the Memorial of Saint Marie Magdalen Postel, Religious (Patroness of educators and defenders of the Eucharist), a fearless woman of faith who preserved the light of Christ through revolutionary darkness. On this sacred day, we raise our hearts in prayer for the sick and dying especially those battling terminal illnesses for families in crisis, for persecuted Christians, for the clergy, and for the unity and renewal of the Church. May their intercession draw us closer to Jesus and strengthen us in our witness to the Gospel. 🙏🏽
OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL: The title Our Lady of Mount Carmel traces back to the hermits living on Mount Carmel in the Holy Land during the 12th century. Devoted to a life of prayer and solitude, they built a chapel in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who soon became their spiritual protector. This devotion developed into the Carmelite Order, which flourished even in the face of persecution.
One of the most defining moments in Carmelite history came on July 16, 1251, when the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Simon Stock, a Carmelite priest in England. She presented him with the Brown Scapular, saying: “Whosoever dies wearing this scapular shall not suffer eternal fire.” This scapular became a sign of Mary’s protection, a pledge of peace, and a mark of salvation for those who wear it faithfully and live a life of grace.
Over time, the Carmelite scapular devotion spread throughout the Church, embraced not just by religious but by lay people desiring to deepen their relationship with Mary. Those invested in the scapular are encouraged to live chastely according to their state in life, pray regularly, and entrust themselves entirely to Our Lady.
The feast, originally celebrated only within the Carmelite Order, was extended to the universal Church in 1726 by Pope Benedict XIII. Today, it remains a cherished reminder of Mary’s maternal care and her desire to lead all souls to Christ.
“Take this Scapular. Whosoever dies wearing it shall not suffer eternal fire. It shall be a sign of salvation, a protection in danger and pledge of peace.” — Our Lady to Saint Simon Stock
PRAYER TO OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL: O Most Blessed Virgin of Mount Carmel, wrap us in the warmth of your maternal care. Clothe us with your virtues, protect us in times of trial, and guide us along the mountain path that leads to Christ. May the scapular be for us a sign of hope, purity, and unwavering faith. Through your intercession, may we one day rejoice with you in Heaven. Amen. 🙏🏽
SAINT MARIE MAGDALEN POSTEL, RELIGIOUS: Saint Marie Magdalen Postel (1756–1846) was born in Normandy, France, into a devout middle-class family. Known from childhood for her generosity and piety, she gave alms to the poor and made an early vow of chastity. At just 18 years old, she founded a school for girls, reflecting her lifelong mission to educate youth and defend the faith. During the violent upheaval of the French Revolution, when religious institutions were suppressed, Marie bravely hid fugitive priests in her home and carried the Blessed Sacrament to dying Catholics who were denied access to the sacraments. She acted as a catechist and spiritual support in a time of fear and chaos, risking her life to preserve the light of Christ.
After the Revolution, she founded a religious congregation initially called the Poor Daughters of Mercy, which later became the Sisters of the Christian Schools of Mercy, adopting the educational charism of Saint John Baptist de la Salle. Her schools became models of excellence, and her community expanded under her leadership. She died peacefully at the age of 90, having left behind a legacy of courageous service, Eucharistic devotion, and unwavering commitment to Christ’s mission through education and mercy.
PRAYER: Saint Marie Magdalen Postel, bold and faithful servant of God, intercede for all educators, catechists, and those who risk their lives to uphold the sacraments. Inspire in us the courage to stand for truth, the love to teach others, and the strength to carry Christ to the forgotten and the fearful. May your holy example lead us to trust God’s providence in all circumstances. Amen. 🙏🏽
Our Blessed Mother Mary, Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Saint Marie Magdalen Postel ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF JULY: For formation in discernment. Let us pray that we might again learn how to discern, to know how to choose paths of life and reject everything that leads us away from Christ and the Gospel.
(https://popesprayerusa.net/popes-intentions/)
DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF JULY | MONTH OF THE MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD OF JESUS: July is dedicated to the Most Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ a profound devotion that honors the redeeming power of Christ’s Blood shed for our salvation. Flowing from His Sacred Heart, this Blood is the price of our redemption, the source of grace in the sacraments, and the seal of the New Covenant. It reminds us that salvation was not won lightly, but through the ultimate sacrifice of love. This month, the Church invites us to meditate on the infinite value of Christ’s Blood poured out during His Passion from Gethsemane to Calvary and in every celebration of the Holy Eucharist. We are called to offer acts of reparation for the sins of the world and to intercede for the conversion of souls. Devotions such as the Litany of the Precious Blood, the Chaplet of the Precious Blood, and daily consecration to the Precious Blood help deepen our union with Christ crucified.
As Saint John Chrysostom once said, “The Precious Blood is the salvation of souls; it purifies, sanctifies, and strengthens.” In our trials, let us take refuge beneath the cross, trusting in the Blood that speaks of mercy, victory, and eternal life.
“Precious Blood of Jesus, save us and the whole world.”
O Most Precious Blood of Jesus, fountain of salvation, we adore You. Wash us clean of sin, protect us from evil, and draw us into deeper love and union with You. Amen. 🙏🏽
PRAYER INTENTIONS: On this holy day, as we honor Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Saint Marie Magdalen Postel, we lift up our hearts in prayer to the God who reveals Himself in simplicity and calls each of us by name. May the Lord, who spoke to Moses from the burning bush and who reveals divine wisdom to the humble of heart, guide all those discerning their vocation and mission in life. We pray especially for the sick and dying, particularly those battling terminal illnesses, that they may find hope and healing under Mary’s protective mantle. We entrust to God’s mercy all educators, catechists, and defenders of the faith who, like Saint Marie Magdalen, carry Christ into difficult and dark places. For priests and religious who labor in obscurity, for persecuted Christians throughout the world, and for families in distress, may the Lord of compassion renew their strength. We pray for the unity and sanctification of the Church, and for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon all who seek to live in fidelity, courage, and love. 🙏🏽
LET US PRAY
My rejoicing Lord, You are attentive to the workings of grace in every human heart. As You see the Voice of the Father speaking to Your children, You rejoice at such a sight. Dear Lord, I pray that my own heart will be the cause of Your joy and Your praise of the Father in Heaven. Please speak to me and help me to believe with all my heart. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽
O God of mercy and fire, You appeared to Moses and called him by name, and through Jesus Your Son, You have revealed the mysteries of the Kingdom to the childlike. On this feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, may we take refuge beneath Mary’s mantle and walk in the way of humility, prayer, and trust. Inspired by the fearless witness of Saint Marie Magdalen Postel, may we carry Your presence into every place of need with boldness and love. Teach us to see You in the sacred and the simple, to respond to Your call with reverence, and to serve others with joy. May our hearts burn with faith as we journey toward the mountain that is Christ, where love conquers fear and mercy triumphs over judgment. Through the intercession of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Saint Marie Magdalen Postel, lead us deeper into Your heart, O Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Saint Marie Magdalen Postel ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽
Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you. Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for us. Amen 🙏🏽
Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day, and as we now enter the gentle rhythm of Ordinary Time, may our hearts remain open to the quiet working of the Holy Spirit who continues to guide, renew, and strengthen us each day. May this new month be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ walks with us always. Alleluia! Have a blessed, grace-filled and safe Wednesday and fruitful week ahead 🙏🏽
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | July 15, 2025 | “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-daily-mass-129/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family!
Today is Tuesday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time! We give thanks to God for the gift of life and the grace to see this month. During this month of July, may the Precious Blood of Jesus cover and protect us, heal our wounds, and strengthen our faith. We pray for all those celebrating their birthdays, anniversaries, new beginnings, and special moments in this month of July. May God’s blessings overflow in their lives. May this month bring peace to troubled hearts, direction to the lost, comfort to the grieving, and strength to the weary. In all things, may His will be done and His name be glorified. Amen🙏🏽
PRAYER AND APPRECIATION FOR THE CLERGY AND RELIGIOUS:
“The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching” ~ 1 Timothy 5:17
“Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.” ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:12–13
We thank God for the gift of life and especially thank Him for blessing us all with the special gift of the Clergy, who have sacrificed their lives to serve in the Lord’s Vineyard.
We pray for the Church, the Clergy, our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, the Cardinals, Bishops, all Priests, all religious men and women, that they be sanctified in their ministry to God’s people. We thank them for their faithful, dedicated, and loving service to the people of God. Praying for God’s wisdom, knowledge, and good health of body and mind upon them. Amen 🙏🏽
With special intention for all Priests who are going through mental health challenges. May the good Lord heal them and grant them peace, and may our Blessed Mother Mary comfort them as they go through challenging times. May we, the faithful, also be instruments of God’s peace and comfort to them, offering our understanding and support in tangible ways. Amen 🙏🏽
For the repose of the gentle soul of Rev. Fr. Matteo Bolzano and souls of all the faithful departed. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon them. May their gentle souls through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ… Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯
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 & the Holy Spirit forever & ever. Amen 🙏🏽
PRAYER FOR VICTIMS OF NATURAL DISASTERS: We join our prayers to the prayers of others throughout the world, for the victims of natural disasters which have brought destruction and disaster to so many countless lives. We particularly pray for the victims of the recent flooding in Central Texas, may God restore what was lost and console all those who are grieving, injured, or have lost loved ones. Eternal rest grant unto those who lost their lives and let perpetual light shine upon them. Amen 🙏🏽
On this special feast day, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, we humbly pray for justice, peace, love and unity in our families and our divided and conflicted world today. We continue to pray for all families and for the safety and well-being of our children and children all over the world. We pray for all those who are marginalized in our society, the poor and the needy. We pray for the Church, the Clergy, our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, the Cardinals, Bishops, all Priests, that they be sanctified in their ministry to God’s people. We pray for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and Christians all over the world suffering from political and religious unrest. May God protect us all and keep united in peace, love and faith. Amen 🙏🏽
We continue to pray for the sick and dying. We especially pray for our loved ones who have recently died and we continue to pray for the repose of their gentle souls and the 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 through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ… Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯
Through the intercession of St. Joseph, we pray for all fathers, workers and all those who labour in this world. May the Lord bless the work of their hands and may God’s grace and mercy be with us all during this season of the Ordinary Time. Wishing us all and our loved ones a joyful, peaceful, and grace-filled month of July.🙏🏽
Today’s Bible Readings for the Memorial of Saint Bonaventure, Bishop and Doctor of the Church | July 15, 2025 Reading 1: Exodus 2:1–15a Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 69:3, 14, 30–31, 33–34 Gospel: Matthew 11:20–24
Gospel Reading ~ Matthew 11:20–24
“It will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon and for the land of Sodom on the day of judgment than for you”
“Jesus began to reproach the towns where most of His mighty deeds had been done, since they had not repented. “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented in sackcloth and ashes. But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. And as for you, Capernaum: Will you be exalted to heaven? You will go down to the netherworld. For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.”
In today’s Gospel, Jesus complains about three towns in Galilee who responded with indifference to the mighty works that He performed among them. One of those towns, Capernaum, is known to us from the Gospels as a focal point for Jesus’ teaching and deeds. Jesus rebukes the towns of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum not because they hadn’t seen His power, but because they saw and still refused to repent. This passage is a sobering reminder that miracles and spiritual experiences, while powerful, do not automatically lead to conversion. The people witnessed divine signs yet remained indifferent, even hardened. Jesus compares them to notoriously sinful cities like Tyre, Sidon, and Sodom pagan cities that, had they seen the same miracles, would have turned their hearts in humility and sackcloth. This passage reminds us that familiarity with faith can breed complacency. We may hear the Gospel daily, partake in the sacraments regularly, and still keep certain areas of our hearts closed off. Jesus does not simply desire admiration of His works; He calls for change real, interior transformation. His warning is not given in anger, but in sorrow for hardened hearts that refuse grace. How many times has the Lord knocked on the door of our souls through blessings, challenges, or gentle promptings and how often have we ignored Him, excused ourselves, or delayed obedience? The message today is urgent: respond now. Repentance is not only about turning away from obvious sin, but about turning toward God in trust and surrender. Jesus’s lament shows that judgment is real and personal. But it also tells us this: the window of mercy is still open. Let us not miss the opportunity for conversion because we’ve grown too accustomed to the voice of Christ in our midst.
In today’s first reading, The story of Moses’s early life is marked by danger, providence, and God’s hidden hand. Born into oppression, placed in a basket to save his life, and raised in Pharaoh’s household, Moses’s journey reminds us that God is always at work even when His presence seems silent. The courage of Moses’s mother, the quick thinking of his sister, and the compassion of Pharaoh’s daughter all play roles in protecting God’s chosen instrument. Even in exile, God is forming Moses for future leadership. But this passage also introduces Moses’s human side his zeal to defend his people and his fear when his actions become known. We see a man with a sense of justice but not yet the wisdom or timing to fulfill God’s plan. Like Moses, we may act out of passion or frustration, only to discover our limitations. Yet God uses even our failures to lead us where we’re meant to be. Moses’s time in Midian becomes a period of preparation. Sometimes, being cast aside or misunderstood becomes the beginning of a deeper calling. This reading invites us to trust God’s providence in unexpected places. Even when we feel like we’re hiding in the wilderness, God may be setting the stage for a greater mission. What matters is that we remain open to His shaping hand, even when the path is unclear.
Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, “Turn to the Lord in your need, and you will live.” This psalm captures the cry of someone overwhelmed by sorrow and opposition. The psalmist is not pretending things are fine; he is honest about pain, abandonment, and the weight of injustice. Yet even in distress, his heart clings to God with unwavering hope. He praises God not because his troubles are gone, but because he knows God hears the cry of the afflicted. This is the posture of authentic faith not denying our need, but bringing it before the Lord with praise. The psalm reminds us that God does not despise the lowly, nor ignore those in bondage. When we turn to Him in our darkest hours, we touch the very heart of divine compassion. And it is there in the swamp of suffering that new life begins to bloom. The Lord calls out to us from every situation in life, both those that speak of death and those that proclaim life. In each and every situation, we need to ‘seek the Lord’ in the words of the response to today’s psalm. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we try to discern what the Lord is saying to us in and through our many and varied experiences and how He is calling on us to respond.
As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we are called to ponder on the Scriptures. Have I grown numb to God’s Word because I hear it often? Am I responding to Christ’s invitations to repent and follow Him more closely or have I grown passive in my faith? Like Moses, do I recognize that God is shaping me even in hidden seasons or in my failures? What parts of my life need surrender and reorientation toward God’s plan? Do I bring my pain and burdens honestly before God like the psalmist, trusting He hears me? When Jesus calls for repentance today, how will I answer? Today’s readings challenge us to examine not only how we hear God’s Word, but how we respond. Jesus’s lament over unrepentant towns warns us not to become indifferent to the graces we’ve received. Like Moses, we may not fully understand how God is shaping our story, but His hand is guiding us even in exile, failure, or silence. And like the psalmist, we are reminded to cry out to God with honest hearts, knowing He listens and redeems the lowly. Let us not delay in turning back to the Lord. Now is the time to soften our hearts, repent sincerely, and act with humility. God is near His voice calls not just for acknowledgment, but for transformation. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace and let us respond with renewed faith, open hearts, and a willingness to be led. Amen.🙏🏽
Lord Jesus, awaken my heart to the urgency of Your call. May I never take Your Word for granted or grow complacent in the face of Your mercy. Teach me, like Moses, to trust in Your quiet providence even when the journey feels uncertain. Help me to turn to You in my need and to recognize Your presence in both joy and trial. Give me a heart that responds not later, but now with faith, humility, and love. Amen. 🙏🏽
MEMORIAL OF SAINT BONAVENTURE, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH: JULY 15TH: Today, we honor the memory of Saint Bonaventure (Patron of those with bowel disorders), a towering figure of holiness and intellect in the history of the Church. Known as the “Seraphic Doctor,” Saint Bonaventure was a man whose deep contemplation of divine truth overflowed into action, leadership, and sacrificial service. On this memorial, we lift up our prayers for all those suffering from terminal illnesses, especially bowel disorders and cancer; for the sick and the dying; for those facing affliction in mind or body; for the poor and neglected; for harmony within divided communities; and for the continued renewal of the Church through wise and holy leaders. May Saint Bonaventure’s intercession bring light to our intellects and love to our hearts, drawing us ever closer to Christ. 🙏🏽
SAINT BONAVENTURE, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH: Saint Bonaventure (1221–1274), born Giovanni di Fidanza in Bagnoregio, Italy, was miraculously healed as a child through the prayers of Saint Francis of Assisi, who exclaimed, “O buona ventura!” “Oh, good fortune!” This name would prophetically mark a life of extraordinary holiness and wisdom. Entering the Franciscan Order at 22, Bonaventure studied in Paris, where he became a close friend of Saint Thomas Aquinas. Despite his towering intellect, he pointed to the crucifix as the true source of his insight.
As Minister General of the Franciscans, he brought peace during internal divisions and became known as the “second founder” of the Order. His mystical writings, especially The Soul’s Journey into God, reveal a heart on fire for Christ. Appointed Cardinal-Bishop of Albano in 1273, he died the following year while serving at the Second Council of Lyons.
Canonized in 1482 and declared a Doctor of the Church in 1588, Saint Bonaventure is remembered as a man whose intellect and sanctity flowed from deep union with Christ. As Pope Benedict XVI said, “His whole thinking was profoundly Christocentric.”
“Let meditation of Christ’s life be your one and only aim, your rest, your food, your desire, your study.” ~ Saint Bonaventure
PRAYER: O God, who gave the Bishop Saint Bonaventure a special gift of deep insight and burning love for You, grant that we may be nourished by his heavenly wisdom and imitate the fervor of his charity. Through the intercession of the Seraphic Doctor, may our minds be lifted to divine truth, and our hearts set aflame with love for Christ, the center of all creation. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
Our Blessed Mother Mary and Saint Bonaventure ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF JULY: For formation in discernment. Let us pray that we might again learn how to discern, to know how to choose paths of life and reject everything that leads us away from Christ and the Gospel.
DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF JULY | MONTH OF THE MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD OF JESUS: July is dedicated to the Most Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ a profound devotion that honors the redeeming power of Christ’s Blood shed for our salvation. Flowing from His Sacred Heart, this Blood is the price of our redemption, the source of grace in the sacraments, and the seal of the New Covenant. It reminds us that salvation was not won lightly, but through the ultimate sacrifice of love. This month, the Church invites us to meditate on the infinite value of Christ’s Blood poured out during His Passion from Gethsemane to Calvary and in every celebration of the Holy Eucharist. We are called to offer acts of reparation for the sins of the world and to intercede for the conversion of souls. Devotions such as the Litany of the Precious Blood, the Chaplet of the Precious Blood, and daily consecration to the Precious Blood help deepen our union with Christ crucified.
As Saint John Chrysostom once said, “The Precious Blood is the salvation of souls; it purifies, sanctifies, and strengthens.” In our trials, let us take refuge beneath the cross, trusting in the Blood that speaks of mercy, victory, and eternal life.
“Precious Blood of Jesus, save us and the whole world.”
O Most Precious Blood of Jesus, fountain of salvation, we adore You. Wash us clean of sin, protect us from evil, and draw us into deeper love and union with You. Amen. 🙏🏽
PRAYER INTENTIONS: On this Memorial of Saint Bonaventure, a humble servant of Christ and Doctor of the Church, we lift up our hearts in prayer. We remember all who, like the Hebrews in Egypt, feel trapped by suffering, injustice, or despair may God draw them out of their afflictions and lead them to hope and healing. We pray for the grace of true repentance, especially for communities and individuals who have grown indifferent to God’s mighty deeds and call to conversion. May the example of Saint Bonaventure whose wisdom flowed from prayer and whose leadership brought peace inspire our leaders, both in the Church and in society, to serve with humility, wisdom, and unity. We remember those who suffer from bowel disorders, chronic illness, and terminal diseases, asking for comfort, strength, and, if it be God’s will, healing. And for all who seek deeper union with Christ through study, service, or contemplation, may Saint Bonaventure intercede to draw their hearts closer to the Crucified and Risen Lord.
LET US PRAY
My passionate Jesus, You poured out Your heart and soul through Your preaching to the people of Israel. Although many accepted You, many others rejected You. I thank You for the privilege I have been given to hear Your holy Word preached to me. Help me to respond to You with all my heart so that I will be counted among those who listen and believe. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽
Heavenly Father, You drew Saint Bonaventure to Yourself through the fire of divine love and made him a faithful shepherd of Your people. Through his intercession, deepen our desire for wisdom that springs from prayer, and give us hearts that burn with mercy and truth. Help us turn to You in our need and live fully in Your grace. May we not harden our hearts but respond to Your voice with humility, compassion, and renewed trust. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Bonaventure ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽
Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you. Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for us. Amen 🙏🏽
Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day, and as we now enter the gentle rhythm of Ordinary Time, may our hearts remain open to the quiet working of the Holy Spirit who continues to guide, renew, and strengthen us each day. May this new month be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ walks with us always. Alleluia! Have a blessed, grace-filled and safe Tuesday and fruitful week ahead 🙏🏽
MEMORIAL OF SAINT BONAVENTURE, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH ~ FEAST DAY: JULY 15TH: Today, we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Bonaventure, Bishop and Doctor of the Church. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and Saint Bonaventure on this feast day, we humbly pray for the sick and dying, especially those suffering from terminal diseases and we also pray for those suffering from bowel disorders, cancers and other terminal diseases, we pray for God’s divine healing upon them. We pray for those going through difficulties during these challenging times, for the poor and the needy, for peace, love and unity in our families and our world. And we continue to pray for the Church, the Clergy, for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and Christians all over the world.🙏
SAINT BONAVENTURE, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH: St. Bonaventure (1221–1274) widely known as “The Seraphic Doctor”, was born at Bagnorea in Tuscany, Italy in 1221. This frail child was originally given the name of John (Giovanni), at baptism but received the name of Bonaventure in consequence of an exclamation of St. Francis of Assisi. As a child he became seriously ill and was in danger of death until his mother brought him to St. Francis of Assisi, who was then living in the region as a mendicant friar. She promised God she would endeavor to have the child take the habit of the Franciscan Order, if he were cured. Her prayer was granted, the child was cured, and Saint Francis himself gave him his new name. It is said that St. Francis healed the child and afterward exclaimed, “O buona ventura (O good fortune)!” when he prophetically perceived how great the child would one day become, and this is how he began to be called Bonaventure. Saint Francis died a few months later, not without foreseeing the future of this little one, destined to be a seraph of love like himself. Saint Bonaventure is titled the Seraphic Doctor, from the fervor of divine love which breathes in his writings. At the age of twenty-two St. Bonaventure entered the Franciscan Order. Having made his vows, he was sent to Paris to complete his studies in Theology under the celebrated Doctor Alexander of Hales, an Englishman and a Franciscan. After the latter’s death he continued his course under his successor, John of Rochelle. In Paris he became the intimate friend of the great St. Thomas Aquinas. The two friends graduated together, each insisting that the other be the first to receive honors. St. Bonaventure is regarded as one of the great philosophers and theologians of the Middle Ages, earning the name “Seraphic Doctor.” Like St. Thomas, he enjoyed the friendship of the holy King, St. Louis. Sanctity and learning raised Bonaventure to the Church’s highest honors, yet at heart he was ever the poor Franciscan friar, who practiced and taught humility and mortification. Saint Thomas Aquinas asked him one day from what source he drew his great learning; he replied by pointing to his crucifix. Another time Saint Thomas found him in ecstasy while writing the life of Saint Francis. The Angelic Doctor said, while retiring quietly, Let us leave a Saint in peace, to write of a Saint!
In 1257, at about the age of thirty-five St. Bonaventure was chosen General of his Order, the superior of the Friars Minor. In this position, which he filled for 17 years, he brought peace and order and restored a perfect calm where peace had been disturbed by internal dissensions. His impact was so great that today he is sometimes referred to as the second founder of the Franciscans. Taking on the position after a period of extraordinary expansion for the order, St. Bonaventure worked to preserve a spirit of unity. He calmed the threat of internal dissension that arose over differences in interpreting the message of St. Francis of Assisi. Central to this work was his understanding that the study of philosophy and theology did not oppose the call to poverty that was so central to Franciscan spirituality. St. Bonaventure proposed a unified and collected text regulating the daily life of the Friars Minor. The text was accepted and ratified in 1260 by the General Chapter of the Order in Narbonne. He did much for his Order and composed the life of St. Francis. Wishing to present an authentic image of the life and teaching of their founder, he zealously collected documents about St. Francis of Assisi and heard testimonies of those who had actually known him. From this information, he compiled a biography of the saint that was adopted as his official biography by the General Chapter of the Friars Minor in 1263. St. Bonaventure also wrote numerous mystical and ascetical treatises, most famously, “The Soul’s Journey into God.” He also assisted at the translation of the relics of St. Anthony of Padua.
He was nominated Archbishop of York by Pope Clement IV, but he begged not to be forced to accept that dignity. In 1273, he was appointed by Pope Gregory X obliging him to take upon himself a greater one, as Cardinal and Bishop of Albano, one of the six suffragan Sees of Rome. The Pope also asked him to help prepare the Second Ecumenical Council of Lyons, an ecclesial event aimed at re-establishing communion between the Latin and Greek Churches. St. Bonaventure worked to prepare the Ecumenical Council, but never saw its completion. Before his death he abdicated his office of General of the Franciscan Order. He died on July 15, 1274, while he was assisting at the Second Council of Lyons, which worked for the reunification of the Catholic Church with the Eastern Orthodox churches. Dante had already included him among the inhabitants of his “Paradise”. He was canonised on April 14,1482 by Pope Sixtus IV and declared a Doctor of the Church in the year 1588 by Pope Sixtus V. He’s Patron Saint of bowel disorders. His feast day is celebrated on July 15th.
In his General Audience on March 3, 2010, Pope Benedict XVI spoke about the life of St. Bonaventure. He called to mind the great works of literature, art, philosophy and theology that were inspired by the Christian faith during the time period in which the saint lived. “Among the great Christian figures who contributed to the composition of this harmony between faith and culture Bonaventure stands out, a man of action and contemplation, of profound piety and prudent government,” Pope Benedict said. The Pope called on the faithful to take note of “the central role that Christ always played in Bonaventure’s life and teaching,” and to imitate the way in which “the whole of his thinking was profoundly Christocentric.”
“Meditation on Christ in His humanity is corporeal in deed, in fact, but spiritual in mind. . . . By adopting this habit, you will steady your mind, be trained to virtues, and receive strength of soul….Let meditation of Christ’s life be your one and only aim, your rest, your food, your desire, your study.” ~ St. Bonaventure
PRAYER: Grant, we pray, almighty God, that, just as we celebrate the heavenly birthday of the Bishop Saint Bonaventure, we may benefit from his great learning and constantly imitate the ardor of his charity. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever… Amen🙏
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | July 14, 2025 | “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-daily-mass-128/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family!
Today is Monday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time! We give thanks to God for the gift of life and the grace to see this month. During this month of July, may the Precious Blood of Jesus cover and protect us, heal our wounds, and strengthen our faith. We pray for all those celebrating their birthdays, anniversaries, new beginnings, and special moments in this month of July. May God’s blessings overflow in their lives. May this month bring peace to troubled hearts, direction to the lost, comfort to the grieving, and strength to the weary. In all things, may His will be done and His name be glorified. Amen🙏🏽
PRAYER FOR VICTIMS OF NATURAL DISASTERS: We join our prayers to the prayers of others throughout the world, for the victims of natural disasters which have brought destruction and disaster to so many countless lives. We particularly pray for the victims of the recent flooding in Central Texas, may God restore what was lost and console all those who are grieving, injured, or have lost loved ones. Eternal rest grant unto those who lost their lives and let perpetual light shine upon them. Amen 🙏🏽
On this special feast day, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, we humbly pray for justice, peace, love and unity in our families and our divided and conflicted world today. We continue to pray for all families and for the safety and well-being of our children and children all over the world. We pray for all those who are marginalized in our society, the poor and the needy. We pray for the Church, the Clergy, our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, the Cardinals, Bishops, all Priests, that they be sanctified in their ministry to God’s people. We pray for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and Christians all over the world suffering from political and religious unrest. May God protect us all and keep united in peace, love and faith. Amen 🙏🏽
We continue to pray for the sick and dying. We especially pray for our loved ones who have recently died and we continue to pray for the repose of their gentle souls and the 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 through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ… Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯
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 & the Holy Spirit forever & ever. Amen 🙏🏽
Through the intercession of St. Joseph, we pray for all fathers, workers and all those who labour in this world. May the Lord bless the work of their hands and may God’s grace and mercy be with us all during this season of the Ordinary Time. Wishing us all and our loved ones a joyful, peaceful, and grace-filled month of July.🙏🏽
Today’s Bible Readings for the Memorial of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, Virgin | July 14, 2025 Reading 1: Exodus 1:8–14, 22 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 124:1b–3, 4–6, 7–8 Gospel: Matthew 10:34—11:1
Gospel Reading ~ Matthew 10:34—11:1
“I have come to bring not peace, but the sword; Whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me”
“Jesus said to his Apostles: “Do not think that I have come to bring peace upon the earth. I have come to bring not peace but the sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and one’s enemies will be those of his household. “Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. “Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. Whoever receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever receives a righteous man because he is righteous will receive a righteous man’s reward. And whoever gives only a cup of cold water to one of these little ones to drink because he is a disciple– amen, I say to you, he will surely not lose his reward.” When Jesus finished giving these commands to his Twelve disciples, he went away from that place to teach and to preach in their towns.”
In today’s Gospel, Jesus delivers a challenging and deeply radical message. He tells His disciples not to expect peace, but division division even within the most sacred human relationships: between parent and child, family members, and within households. His words are not an encouragement of conflict, but a bold reminder that allegiance to Him comes before every earthly attachment. To follow Christ is to carry a cross, and to carry a cross is to accept the cost of discipleship. This cost may include misunderstanding, rejection, or even persecution but in losing our life for His sake, we find it in its fullness. Jesus emphasizes that authentic love for Him must surpass all other loves, even those most natural and dear to us. Faithful discipleship may set us apart, but it draws us ever deeper into the heart of Christ, where true life begins. The Lord further affirms that even the smallest act of kindness done in His name a cup of water given to one of His disciples will not go unrewarded. These seemingly insignificant moments of mercy, love, and generosity are eternally remembered by God. The Gospel ends with Jesus departing to teach and preach in the surrounding towns, showing us that after instruction comes mission. The disciple must hear, embrace, and then act. Christ calls not for a comfortable faith, but a courageous one.
The opening saying of Jesus in today’s Gospel reading might strike us as strange, ‘Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth; it is not peace I have come to bring, but a sword’. Jesus recognizes that his presence on earth will be divisive; some will welcome him and others will reject him and those who reject him will persecute those who welcome Him. He goes on to elaborate on how we can welcome Him. He says to those He sends out as His ambassadors, ‘anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and those who welcome me welcome the one who sent me’. All of us who have been baptized are always being sent out by Jesus as his ambassadors. In welcoming each other, we are welcoming Jesus, and in welcoming Jesus we are welcoming God the Father. Jesus identifies himself very closely with each one of his followers, to such an extent that how we relate to each other determines how we relate to him. Even the smallest act of kindness to another disciple of Jesus, such as the giving of a cup of cold water, will not go unnoticed by the Lord. The Lord whom we are to prefer more than even our closest family members nonetheless comes to us in and through each other. The ground which we share with our fellow pilgrims is holy ground, sacred space, where the Lord is present.
In the first reading from Exodus, we witness the beginning of Israel’s deep suffering under Egyptian oppression. A new Pharaoh, ignorant of Joseph’s contributions, sees the growing Hebrew population as a threat. Fear gives birth to cruelty, and the Israelites are forced into bitter slavery. Yet, remarkably, the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and spread. This passage is a testament to God’s quiet power at work in the shadows of suffering. The Israelites’ resilience points to a deeper truth: that in seasons of affliction, God is not absent He is preparing deliverance. Pharaoh’s final decree to kill all Hebrew boys is a foreshadowing of the coming Exodus and God’s triumph over evil through unlikely means.
Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, the psalm echoes this theme of divine rescue and faithfulness: “Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” The psalmist recounts how the people of Israel were delivered from overwhelming danger—swallowed alive, swept away by torrents and how God broke the snares set against them. Just as a bird escapes the trapper’s snare, so too does God rescue His people. In our own lives, we may feel surrounded, pressed down, or at risk of being swallowed by fear, hardship, or injustice. But our God is a deliverer, and our hope rests in His holy name.
As we reflect today on these readings, we are prompted to ask: Am I willing to put Christ first, even when it leads to division or discomfort? What cross am I being called to carry today, and how can I embrace it with love? Do I believe that God sees even the smallest act of kindness I offer in His name? When I feel overwhelmed or trapped by trials, do I turn to the Lord as my helper and rescuer, or do I rely only on myself? How can I trust more deeply in His timing and providence, especially in seasons of oppression or hardship? Let us go forth today with renewed courage and unwavering love for Christ. May we place Him above all else, carry our cross without fear, and serve others in simple, hidden ways that are eternally remembered in heaven. Whether our lives are marked by peace or division, may our eyes remain fixed on Jesus the One who gives meaning to all suffering and transforms every cross into resurrection. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace as we continue to strive to serve Him in spirit and in truth. 🙏🏽
Lord Jesus, You have called us not to a life of comfort, but to a life of courageous love and holy sacrifice. Help us to put You first in all things, even when it costs us deeply. Give us strength to carry our crosses, wisdom to follow Your voice, and humility to serve others with love. In times of fear or trial, remind us that our help is in Your name, and that You are always near. Amen. 🙏🏽
MEMORIAL OF SAINT KATERI TEKAKWITHA, VIRGIN AND SAINT FRANCIS SOLANO, PRIEST ~ FEAST DAY: JULY 14TH: Today, the Church celebrates the lives of two radiant witnesses of holiness from vastly different worlds: Saint Kateri Tekakwitha (Patroness of Native Americans, ecologists, environmentalists, people in exile, and those who have lost parents) and Saint Francis Solano (Patron of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, and Franciscan missions). Though they lived centuries and continents apart, both saints embodied a life of total surrender to God through prayer, penance, and love of neighbor. Through their intercession and under the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we lift our prayers today for those grieving the loss of parents or loved ones, for those experiencing rejection or loneliness, for indigenous communities around the world, for those battling chronic illness, and for all missionaries, especially those serving in difficult and remote areas. May these saints help us grow in courage, holiness, and hope. 🙏🏽
SAINT KATERI TEKAKWITHA, VIRGIN: Born in 1656 near present-day Auriesville, New York, Saint Kateri Tekakwitha was the daughter of a Mohawk chief and a Christian Algonquin mother. At age four, she survived a smallpox epidemic that claimed her family and left her face disfigured and her eyesight impaired. Raised by relatives hostile to Christianity, she was drawn to the faith through the witness of Jesuit missionaries and was baptized at age twenty, taking the name “Catherine” (Kateri in her Mohawk dialect). Her conversion brought persecution from her community, and she eventually fled over 200 miles on foot to a Christian Mohawk settlement near Montreal.
In her new home, Kateri devoted herself to prayer, penance, and charity. She took a private vow of virginity unheard of among her people and lived with great humility, often praying in the woods for long hours. Despite her fragile health, she fasted and offered suffering for the conversion of her people. Known for her mystical union with Christ and radiant holiness, Kateri died at age 24 on April 17, 1680. Witnesses reported that her facial scars vanished moments after death, revealing her beauty and peace. She was canonized in 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI and is the patroness of Native Americans, ecology, and people persecuted for their faith.
PRAYER: Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, brave virgin of the Mohawk people, pray for us to have hearts as pure, faith as strong, and love as courageous as yours. May we, like you, seek Jesus in silence, simplicity, and suffering, and find joy in belonging entirely to Him. Amen. 🙏🏽
SAINT FRANCIS SOLANO, PRIEST: Saint Francis Solano was born in 1549 in Andalusia, Spain, and entered the Franciscan Order at age twenty. After years of ministry in Spain, he was sent as a missionary to South America in 1589. Surviving a shipwreck, he chose to stay on board with the vulnerable passengers rather than escape with the elite—an act that revealed his deep compassion and trust in God. In Peru, he preached tirelessly in villages and remote lands, winning the hearts of thousands of indigenous people. He was known for his gift of tongues, working miracles, healing the sick, and converting souls through his love and holiness.
Though he served among simple and often rejected communities, Saint Francis also preached in the bustling streets of Lima, confronting sin with humility and truth. He lived a life of austerity, joy, and constant service, dying in 1610 with the words “God be praised” on his lips. Canonized in 1726, he is the patron saint of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay, and Peru, as well as Franciscan missions.
PRAYER: Saint Francis Solano, missionary of peace and herald of the Gospel, teach us to love the forgotten, serve with humility, and proclaim Christ with joy. May your zeal for souls and compassion for the poor inspire us to bring the love of Jesus to every heart. Amen. 🙏🏽
Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, and Saint Francis Solano ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF JULY: For formation in discernment. Let us pray that we might again learn how to discern, to know how to choose paths of life and reject everything that leads us away from Christ and the Gospel.
(https://popesprayerusa.net/popes-intentions/)
DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF JULY | MONTH OF THE MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD OF JESUS: July is dedicated to the Most Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ a profound devotion that honors the redeeming power of Christ’s Blood shed for our salvation. Flowing from His Sacred Heart, this Blood is the price of our redemption, the source of grace in the sacraments, and the seal of the New Covenant. It reminds us that salvation was not won lightly, but through the ultimate sacrifice of love. This month, the Church invites us to meditate on the infinite value of Christ’s Blood poured out during His Passion from Gethsemane to Calvary and in every celebration of the Holy Eucharist. We are called to offer acts of reparation for the sins of the world and to intercede for the conversion of souls. Devotions such as the Litany of the Precious Blood, the Chaplet of the Precious Blood, and daily consecration to the Precious Blood help deepen our union with Christ crucified.
As Saint John Chrysostom once said, “The Precious Blood is the salvation of souls; it purifies, sanctifies, and strengthens.” In our trials, let us take refuge beneath the cross, trusting in the Blood that speaks of mercy, victory, and eternal life.
“Precious Blood of Jesus, save us and the whole world.”
O Most Precious Blood of Jesus, fountain of salvation, we adore You. Wash us clean of sin, protect us from evil, and draw us into deeper love and union with You. Amen. 🙏🏽
PRAYER INTENTIONS: With hearts open to God’s mercy, we offer our prayers through the intercession of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha and Saint Francis Solano. We pray for those facing rejection, isolation, or persecution because of their faith, that they may remain steadfast in the love of Christ. We remember indigenous peoples and all marginalized communities, asking God to bring healing, justice, and dignity to their lives. We lift up missionaries laboring in remote or hostile regions, that they may be strengthened by the Holy Spirit in their witness. We pray for the sick, especially those enduring chronic illness or terminal disease, that they may find comfort in Christ who walks with them in suffering. We also remember families mourning the loss of loved ones, especially children or parents, and ask the Lord to grant them peace, hope, and the assurance of eternal life. May all who suffer in body or spirit find refuge in the name of the Lord, who delivers us from every snare and restores us to life.
LET US PRAY
Loving Father, You raised up Saint Kateri Tekakwitha and Saint Francis Solano as bright lights in a darkened world models of purity, sacrifice, and unwavering love for You. Through their intercession, strengthen us in trials and help us to carry our crosses with courage. Teach us to proclaim Your truth boldly, to love You above all else, and to seek You even when the world rejects us. May we, like Your saints, walk the narrow path with trust, serve others with joy, and glorify You in all we do. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, and Saint Francis Solano ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽
Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you. Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for us. Amen 🙏🏽
Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day, and as we now enter the gentle rhythm of Ordinary Time, may our hearts remain open to the quiet working of the Holy Spirit who continues to guide, renew, and strengthen us each day. May this new month be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ walks with us always. Alleluia! Have a blessed, grace-filled and safe Monday and fruitful week ahead 🙏🏽
