WEDNESDAY OF THE TWENTIETH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: AUGUST 20, 2025
MEMORIAL OF SAINT BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, ABBOT AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH AND SAINT BERNARD TOLOMEI, PRIEST | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day
(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, and Saint Bernard Tolomei | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-august-20th/)
NOVENA TO SAINT MONICA: The 2025 Novena to Saint Monica is scheduled to begin on Monday, August 18 and end on August 26 in preparation for the Feast of Saint Monica on August 27th. The novena is especially prayed for wayward children.
NOVENA TO SAINT MONICA | AUGUST 18-26TH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/novena-to-saint-monica/
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | August 20, 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-165/
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
JUBILEE OF HOPE 2025: JUBILEE PRAYER | Link to the prayer of the Jubilee of Hope 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/08/the-jubilee-prayer/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family!
Today, Wednesday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time, we thank the good Lord for the gift of this day! During this month of August, we entrust our lives, our plans, our fears, and our dreams into God’s loving hands. We pray that this month will be filled with divine blessings, new opportunities, and the strength to overcome every challenge that may come our way.
We pray and celebrate with those marking birthdays, anniversaries, new jobs, weddings, and other joyful milestones this August. With special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, we pray for all those experiencing challenges in their marriages, may God grant them healing, strength, peace and love. May this be a month of peace for the anxious, healing for the sick, comfort for the brokenhearted, and provision for the needy. As we walk through the days ahead, may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ go before us, the love of God surround us, and the wisdom of the Holy Spirit guide every decision we make. May this month bring us closer to holiness, deeper in faith, and stronger in hope. In all things, may God’s name be paised. Amen🙏🏽
PRAYER FOR THE BEGINNING OF A NEW SCHOOL YEAR | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/prayer-for-the-beginning-of-a-new-school-year/
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” ~ Proverbs 3:5-6
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” ~ James 1:5
On this feast day, as our children and children all over the world begin the new school year, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, we pray for their safety and well-being, especially those beginning the new school year. May God grant them the ability to accept one another and courage to stand against any form of violence in treating others and courage to face new challenges and wisdom to make good choices. We pray for wisdom, knowledge, and understanding and for God’s guidance and protection upon them during this school year and always. We pray for safe travels, to and from school. We also pray for all teachers, staff and parents, and guardians. May the good Lord provide for those in need. And we continue to pray for peace, love, and unity in our families and our world. May God keep us all safe and well. Amen 🙏🏽
May Saint Joseph of Cupertino, Patron Saint of Students intercede for all students. Amen 🙏🏽
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” ~ Matthew 5:4
We remember in prayer all who began this journey of life with us but are no longer here. We especially pray for our loved ones who have recently died, that the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom.
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🙏🏽
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 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯
With special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, we continue to humbly pray for the well-being and safety of all parents, grandparents and the elderly. We 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 🙏🏽
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 August.🙏🏽
LIST OF ALL NOVENAS | Month of August | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/list-of-all-novenas-august/
COMMON CATHOLIC PRAYERS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/common-catholic-prayers/
SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:
Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Wednesday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading
Today’s Bible Readings: Wednesday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time | August 20, 2025
Memorial of Saint Bernard, Abbot and Doctor of the Church
Reading 1 : Judges 9:6–15
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 21:2–3, 4–5, 6–7
Gospel: Matthew 20:1–16
Gospel Reading: Matthew 20:1–16
“Are you envious because I am generous? Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.”
“Jesus told His disciples this parable: “The Kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out at dawn to hire laborers for his vineyard. After agreeing with them for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard. Going out about nine o’clock, he saw others standing idle in the marketplace, and he said to them, ‘You too go into my vineyard, and I will give you what is just.’ So they went off. And he went out again around noon, and around three o’clock, and did likewise. Going out about five o’clock, he found others standing around, and said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’ They answered, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You too go into my vineyard.’ When it was evening the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Summon the laborers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and ending with the first.’ When those who had started about five o’clock came, each received the usual daily wage. So when the first came, they thought that they would receive more, but each of them also got the usual wage. And on receiving it they grumbled against the landowner, saying, ‘These last ones worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us, who bore the day’s burden and the heat.’ He said to one of them in reply, ‘My friend, I am not cheating you. Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? Take what is yours and go. What if I wish to give this last one the same as you? Or am I not free to do as I wish with my own money? Are you envious because I am generous?’ Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.”
In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus tells the parable of the laborers in the vineyard. The landowner generously hires workers at different hours of the day, yet pays each of them the same daily wage. Those who worked the longest complain, feeling cheated. But the landowner responds: “Am I not free to do as I wish with my own money? Are you envious because I am generous?” In today’s Gospel reading, the complaint of those who worked for the whole day in the vineyard seems very reasonable to us, ‘you have treated those who only worked one hour the same as us’. This certainly doesn’t correspond to modern employment practice. It would be unheard of for two people doing the same work to be paid the same wage if one worked all day and the other worked for one hour. Such practice would have been just as unacceptable in the time and place of Jesus. Jesus must have known that his parable would leave people feeling uncomfortable. This is not the way the world works. Perhaps that is the very point of the parable. Life within God’s kingdom does not work as the world does. The parable ends with the vineyard owner’s question, ‘Why be envious because I am generous?’ It is a question that goes to the heart of the parable’s meaning. Jesus is declaring that God is generous in a way that goes way beyond the norms of human justice. God’s way of relating to us is not based on human merit. Jesus reveals God to be someone whose boundless mercy and generosity can appear scandalous to many, including those who thought of themselves as religious. This is the God revealed by the father in the parable of the prodigal son. The son did not deserve the welcome he received, no more than those who worked an hour deserved a day’s wages. Jesus declares that God does not treat us on the basis of what we deserve. God’s favour is freely bestowed on those who are unworthy of it. It is an unmerited free gift. We are called to receive this gift in all humility and to allow this grace to shape our lives. We are to freely give to others as we have freely received from the Lord.
Today’s parable reminds us of the boundless generosity of God. His Kingdom is not governed by human notions of fairness or merit, but by divine mercy. Eternal life is not earned by the number of years or the hours of service we render, but it is a gift freely given to all who answer His call. The latecomer who turns to God with sincerity is welcomed just as fully as the one who has served from the beginning. In our human nature, we often compare ourselves to others, measuring worth by effort, time, or success. Yet, God looks at the heart, not at the clock. His justice is mercy, and His generosity far exceeds our expectations. This parable challenges us to let go of envy, resentment, and comparison, and instead rejoice that God’s mercy is extended to all.
In the first reading, the parable of the trees in the first reading warns against ambition and the pursuit of power for its own sake. The olive, fig, and vine refuse kingship because they would have to abandon their fruitfulness. But the buckthorn, a worthless shrub, eagerly accepts. The lesson is clear: when true leadership is absent, the unworthy rise to power, often to the destruction of many. Genuine service and humility are the marks of leadership in God’s eyes, not self-seeking ambition.
Reflecting on the reponsorial psalm, the psalm proclaims the joy of a king who finds strength and blessing in God, not in his own power. It reminds us that true glory, peace, and victory come only from God’s favor.
Both the Gospel and the first reading teach us about the values of God’s Kingdom, which stand in contrast to human thinking. We often crave power, status, or recognition, and we tend to compare ourselves with others. But God calls us to humility, gratitude, and joy in His generosity. Just as the landowner treated all the workers with equal love, so too does God pour out His mercy on each one of us, regardless of when or how we come to Him.
As disciples, we are invited to: Rejoice in God’s mercy toward others instead of comparing ourselves. Serve with humility and fruitfulness, avoiding the destructive ambition of the buckthorn. Trust that in God’s Kingdom, all who remain faithful early or late receive the gift of eternal life.
As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we might ask ourselves: Do I find myself comparing my journey with God to others? Am I envious of God’s blessings in someone else’s life, instead of rejoicing with them? What “ambitions” in my life may be distracting me from genuine, humble service to God and others? How can I cultivate a grateful heart that delights in God’s generosity? May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace as we remain faithful and continue to serve Him in spirit and in truth.🙏🏽
Lord Jesus, You are generous beyond measure. Teach me to rejoice in Your mercy, not only in my life but also in the lives of others. Free me from envy, comparison, and pride, and help me to embrace humility and gratitude. May I serve You faithfully in whatever task or time You call me, and may I delight in the eternal reward You promise to all who love You. Amen. 🙏🏾
MEMORIAL OF SAINT BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, ABBOT AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH AND SAINT BERNARD TOLOMEI, PRIEST ~ FEAST DAY – AUGUST 20TH: Today, the Church celebrates the Memorial of two remarkable saints: Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, Abbot and Doctor of the Church (Patron of beekeepers, candlemakers, and Gibraltar), and Saint Bernard Tolomei, Priest (Founder of the Olivetan Benedictines). Though they lived centuries apart, both reveal to us the power of a heart totally given to Christ whether through fiery preaching and theological brilliance, or through humility, monastic renewal, and selfless charity. Through their intercession, we pray today for theologians, preachers, and teachers of the faith, for monastic communities and all who seek God in silence, for priests and religious, and for vocations to consecrated life. We pray for families and married couples, that their homes may be places of holiness and unity; for the sick, especially those battling terminal illnesses; for peace and reconciliation in our world; and for the intentions of our Holy Father, bishops, and clergy. May the lives of these saints inspire us to live with courage, charity, and fidelity to Christ. 🙏🏾
Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | August 20th | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com
( Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, and Saint Bernard Tolomei | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-august-20th/)
SAINT BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, ABBOT AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH: Born in 1090 near Dijon, France, into a noble family, Bernard was marked for holiness even from childhood. His devout mother offered all seven of her children to God, and Bernard received an outstanding education, excelling in studies and in personal charm that drew others to him. At 22, he left behind worldly wealth and persuaded 30 companions including four of his brothers to join him as Cistercian monks at the monastery of Cîteaux. In 1115, he founded the Abbey of Clairvaux, which flourished under his leadership and became a model of monastic reform.
Known as the “Mellifluous Doctor” for his eloquence, Bernard became one of the most influential men of the 12th century: counselor of popes, reconciler of kings, defender of the Church during schism, preacher of Crusades, and spiritual father to countless souls. His writings on Scripture, the spiritual life, and devotion to Mary (including the beloved Memorare prayer) made him a Doctor of the Church in 1830. Exhausted from his labors and penances, he died in 1153 and was canonized just 21 years later. His life shows us how holiness, wisdom, and zeal for Christ can shape the Church and the world.
PRAYER: O God, who filled Saint Bernard with zeal for Your house and with burning love for Your Church, grant that, through his intercession, we may be consumed with the same love and walk always as children of light. Amen. 🙏🏾
SAINT BERNARD TOLOMEI, PRIEST: Born Giovanni Tolomei in Siena, Italy, in 1272, he was a nobleman, lawyer, and soldier before turning his heart completely to God. After miraculously regaining his sight through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, he renounced worldly life and embraced solitude and prayer. With companions, he withdrew to the Desert of Accona, where they lived as hermits before founding the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore in 1319. This community grew into the Olivetan Congregation of Benedictines, distinguished by their white habit and emphasis on communion and unity among monasteries.
In 1348, when the plague ravaged Siena, Bernard left his solitude to care for his monks and the suffering in the city. He contracted the disease himself and died on August 20, 1348, offering his life in charity. Beatified in 1644 and canonized in 2009, Saint Bernard Tolomei is remembered as a reformer, mystic, and founder whose love of Christ bore fruit in renewal and service.
PRAYER: Lord, You called Saint Bernard Tolomei to abandon worldly ambition for the silence of prayer and the service of others. Through his intercession, grant us humility of heart, steadfast faith, and courage to love even in times of trial. Amen. 🙏🏾
Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, and Saint Bernard Tolomei ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏾
GENERAL PRAYERS AND INTENTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/general-prayers-and-intentions/
Please find below links to the websites for Daily Reflections, Foundation and interesting topics and articles about our Catholic faith and doctrines | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/30/daily-reflections-and-prayer-links/
THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF AUGUST: For mutual coexistence. Let us pray that societies where coexistence seems more difficult might not succumb to the temptation of confrontation for ethnic, political, religious or ideological reasons.
(https://popesprayerusa.net/popes-intentions/)
DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF AUGUST | MONTH OF THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY: August is dedicated to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, inviting us to reflect on her pure love, deep sorrow, and unwavering obedience to God. Her heart, aflame with charity and pierced by suffering, mirrors the life of Christ and calls us to follow Him more closely through her example. This month, the Church encourages us to console her sorrowful heart and grow in holiness through prayers like the Rosary, the Litany of the Immaculate Heart, and the First Saturday Devotion. Through Mary’s heart, we are led ever closer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
“O Immaculate Heart of Mary, be our refuge and the way that leads us to God.”
Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us and draw us into deeper love and trust in your Son. Amen🙏🏽
https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12540
PRAYER INTENTIONS: We pray for the Church, that her leaders and members may follow the wisdom of Christ, seeking not human glory but humble service in the vineyard of the Lord. Through the intercession of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, may theologians, preachers, and all who teach the faith be guided by love and truth. Through the intercession of Saint Bernard Tolomei, may all communities of religious life flourish in unity, obedience, and holiness. We pray for justice and peace in our world, that those who exercise authority may rule with wisdom and not selfish ambition. We lift up all workers, that they may find dignity in their labor and receive fair reward. We pray for students, families, and the poor, that they may know God’s providence and care. For the sick, the suffering, and the dying, may they find consolation in Christ’s mercy and strength in their trials. And for our own intentions, we entrust them to the Lord, trusting in His generosity that rewards all who seek Him with a sincere heart.
LET US PRAY:
Lord God, You are just and merciful, rewarding each one not according to worldly measures but according to the greatness of Your love. Teach us to labor in Your vineyard with humility and perseverance, never envying others but rejoicing in Your generosity. Through the example of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux and Saint Bernard Tolomei, may we grow in love for Your Word and in service to Your Church. Grant us the grace to live each day with faith, to seek wisdom over pride, and to desire holiness above all things. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.🙏🏽
Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, and Saint Bernard Tolomei ~ 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 during this 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, safe, grace-filled Wednesday and a fulfilling week 🙏🏽
Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation | https://gliopiepehe.org
Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation | Global Missions Now Awards |
North Texas Catholic Magazine | Dr. Philomena Ikowe – Life on Purpose (pages 44-45) | https://www.flipsnack.com/A9DFE877C6F/north-texas-catholic-magazine-mar-apr-issue-2025/full-view.html