SATURDAY OF THE TWENTIETH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: AUGUST 23, 2025

MEMORIAL OF SAINT ROSE OF LIMA, VIRGIN AND SAINT PHILIP BENIZI, PHYSICIAN AND SERVITE PRIEST | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Rose of Lima, and Saint Philip Benizi | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-august-23rd/)

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 23, 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-168/

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, Saturday 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🙏🏽

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/

PRAYER FOR THE BEGINNING OF A NEW SCHOOL YEAR | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/prayer-for-the-beginning-of-a-new-school-year/

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Saturday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading

Today’s Bible Readings: Saturday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time | August 23, 2025
Reading 1: Ruth 2:1–3, 8–11; 4:13–17
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 128:1b–2, 3, 4, 5
Gospel: Matthew 23:1–12

Gospel Reading ~ Matthew 23:12

“They preach but they do not practice; Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

“Jesus spoke to the crowds and to His disciples, saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees have taken their seat on the chair of Moses. Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example. For they preach but they do not practice. They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them. All their works are performed to be seen. They widen their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels. They love places of honor at banquets, seats of honor in synagogues, greetings in marketplaces, and the salutation ‘Rabbi.’ As for you, do not be called ‘Rabbi.’ You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers. Call no one on earth your father; you have but one Father in heaven. Do not be called ‘Master’; you have but one master, the Christ. The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus is critical of the religious leaders who ascribe to themselves titles and ways of behaving that are more the norm in other forms of leadership at the time, such as political leadership. Jesus portrays them as considering themselves to stand above the people in various ways and as wanting their higher position to be recognized, such as in how people greet them, in where they are positioned at banquets, in the titles that they expect to be addressed by. Jesus was aware that all of this was a very human temptation. Indeed it is a temptation to which religious leaders within the Christian tradition have often succumbed. That is why, having critiqued the style of leadership among the Pharisees, Jesus immediately addresses His own disciples. He is aware that they are as prone to this form of behaviour as any other group. Jesus presents to His disciples a vision of church in which emphasis is placed on the leadership role of God and Jesus and, so, as a result all forms of human leadership are relativized. Jesus declares, ‘you must call no one on earth your father, since you have only one Father’. Although, we all have biological fathers whom we call ‘father’. We even have a ‘Father’s Day’ to celebrate our earthly fathers. Then Jesus goes on, ‘nor must you allow yourselves to be called teachers, for you have only one Teacher, the Christ’. There is one Father, God, and we are all sons and daughters of God. There is one teacher, Jesus, and we are all students of that teacher. This is a very egalitarian vision of church which cuts across any notion of superiority or inferiority. This is church as family with one heavenly Father and one teacher. Jesus goes on to declare that within this family greatness is defined by service, a service that is self-emptying so that others may live more fully, after the example of the service of Jesus.

In our Gospel, Jesus warns the crowds and His disciples against the pride and hypocrisy of the scribes and Pharisees. They knew the law, they taught it, but they failed to live by it. Instead, they sought recognition, honor, and authority without embracing humility and service. Jesus calls His followers to a radically different way: to live in humility, to serve others, and to let God Himself be the one who lifts them up. This message challenges us in a world that prizes self-promotion, status, and recognition. We are reminded that true greatness in the Kingdom of God is not found in titles or prestige, but in the quiet service of others. The path of humility may not always be noticed by the world, but it is seen and exalted by God.

In the first reading, the story of Ruth reaches its beautiful climax in today’s first reading. Ruth’s faithfulness, loyalty, and humility are rewarded as she becomes the wife of Boaz and the great-grandmother of King David, placing her directly in the lineage of Jesus Christ. What seemed like a simple story of suffering, loyalty, and hard work becomes part of God’s eternal plan of salvation. This passage reminds us that no act of faithfulness, no moment of loyalty, and no humble sacrifice goes unnoticed by God. Ruth, a foreigner, becomes a mother in the lineage of salvation history. God works in unexpected ways and through unlikely people, weaving their lives into His divine plan.

Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, “Blessed are you who fear the Lord, who walk in His ways!” The psalm emphasizes that true blessing comes not from wealth, power, or influence but from walking faithfully in God’s ways. When our lives are rooted in Him, we experience peace, fruitfulness, and joy even in the ordinary tasks of daily living. This psalm serves as an encouragement to remain steadfast, knowing that the Lord blesses those who live in reverence and trust.

As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we might ask ourselves: Am I more concerned with being recognized and praised by others than with being faithful to God in hidden humility? Do I see the value of small, faithful acts of love and service, trusting that God weaves them into His larger plan? In what ways can I imitate Ruth’s loyalty and humility in my relationships and commitments? Am I striving for humility that exalts God rather than myself? Today’s readings remind us that God’s plan is fulfilled not through pride or power but through humble obedience and faithful service. Let us walk in humility, trusting that the Lord sees our sacrifices and rewards our faithfulness in ways beyond our imagination. 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 teach me that true greatness comes not from seeking honor but from walking in humility and love. Help me to let go of pride and the desire for recognition, and instead embrace the path of service, just as You did. May I, like Ruth, be faithful in both little and great matters, trusting that You are always at work in my life. Fill me with reverence for Your ways so that I may experience the peace and joy that come from walking with You. Amen.🙏🏾

MEMORIAL OF SAINT ROSE OF LIMA, VIRGIN AND SAINT PHILIP BENIZI, PHYSICIAN AND SERVITE PRIEST ~ FEAST DAY – AUGUST 23RD: Today, the Church honors two radiant witnesses of holiness: Saint Rose of Lima (Patroness of the Americas, Peru, florists, and those who suffer family strife), the first canonized saint of the Americas, and Saint Philip Benizi (Patron of the Servite Order and those suffering from headaches), a Servite priest and reformer. Though they lived in different centuries and continents, both shine as examples of humility, courage, and deep love for Christ. Their lives remind us that holiness is not limited by age, background, or vocation, but flows from total surrender to God’s will. Through their intercession, we pray today for the souls of the faithful departed and for all who mourn. We lift up the sick and dying, especially those battling cancer and chronic illness, asking that they may find strength in Christ. We remember the poor and needy, the lonely, and those suffering injustice. We pray for families and marriages, that they may be rooted in love, unity, and faith. We entrust priests, seminarians, and religious to their care, and ask for an increase in holy vocations. We pray for persecuted Christians, for peace in our world, for the conversion of sinners, and for the intentions of the Holy Father, bishops, and all the clergy. May the witness of Saints Rose and Philip inspire us to embrace humility, service, and unwavering devotion to God. 🙏🏾

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

( Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Rose of Lima, and Saint Philip Benizi | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-august-23rd/)

SAINT ROSE OF LIMA, VIRGIN: Born Isabel Flores de Oliva in Lima, Peru, in 1586, Saint Rose was affectionately called “Rose” by her family for her beauty. But she sought a deeper beauty the beauty of holiness. From childhood, she consecrated her life to God with intense prayer, penance, and works of charity. To resist vanity, she disfigured her face and embraced a hidden life of sacrifice, following the example of Saint Catherine of Siena. Though her family wished her to marry, Rose chose virginity and joined the Third Order Dominicans. She built a small hermitage in her parents’ garden, where she lived a life of austerity, fasting, and prayer. At the same time, she cared tenderly for the sick, the poor, and slaves, earning her the title “originator of social service in Peru.” Her mystical visions and great patience in suffering made her a beacon of faith in a society torn by inequality and corruption. Saint Rose died at just 31, in 1617, after prophesying the day of her passing. So beloved was she that her funeral drew immense crowds. Canonized in 1671, she became the first canonized saint of the New World. She is patroness of Peru, the Americas, and the Philippines.

Quote of Saint Rose of Lima: “The gifts of grace increase as the struggles increase.”

PRAYER: O God, You filled Saint Rose with fervent love for You and enabled her to embrace penance and service with heroic charity. Through her intercession, may we grow in humility and love, and come to share the joy of heaven. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT PHILIP BENIZI, SERVITE PRIEST: Saint Philip Benizi was born in Florence in 1233, on the same day the Servite Order was founded. From his earliest years, he showed signs of extraordinary holiness. Though trained as a physician, he felt called to something greater. In humility, he entered the Servite Order as a lay brother, performing the humblest tasks. Later, obedience led to his priestly ordination, and eventually he became Master of Novices and General of the Order. Philip revitalized the Servites with his leadership, missionary zeal, and compassion for the poor. He mediated peace in civil conflicts, preached with power, and embodied humility despite his gifts. Once, when cardinals considered electing him pope, he fled into hiding, desiring only to remain a humble servant of Mary. He was renowned for miracles of healing, including the cure of a leper to whom he had given his own clothing. He died in Todi in 1285, asking only for his “book” the crucifix that had been his constant teacher. Canonized in 1671, Saint Philip is honored as a reformer, peacemaker, and man of deep humility.

PRAYER: Lord, You raised up Saint Philip Benizi to renew Your Church through humility, mercy, and service. Through his intercession, may we learn to love simplicity, care for the poor, and remain faithful to the cross of Christ. Amen. 🙏🏾

Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Rose of Lima, and Saint Philip Benizi ~ 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 throughout the world that her leaders may serve with humility, avoiding pride and self-exaltation, and always guiding God’s people with integrity of heart. We pray for families, that like Ruth and Boaz, they may remain faithful, supportive, and open to God’s providence in their lives. Through the intercession of Saint Rose of Lima, may young people grow in purity, prayer, and courage to live their faith even amid trials. Through the intercession of Saint Philip Benizi, may all priests, religious, and those discerning their vocation embrace humility, compassion, and service to others. We pray for all who labor and provide for their families, that they may experience the blessings of Psalm 128 and rejoice in the fruit of their work. Finally, we remember the poor, the sick, and the abandoned that God may comfort them and raise up compassionate hearts to accompany them.

LET US PRAY:

My exalted Lord, You are exalted far above all others. You are Greatness Itself. The life You lived, dear Lord, was one of the greatest humility. But it was in this humility that You accomplished the salvation of the world. Help me to imitate Your greatness by making the service of others my most central mission in life. I love you, my Lord. May I love and serve others with You. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽

Lord God, You call us to walk in humility and to serve one another with love. Grant us hearts that seek not self-praise but Your glory. Through the example of Ruth’s faithfulness, may we remain steadfast in loyalty and trust in Your providence. Through the intercession of Saint Rose of Lima, fill us with zeal for holiness and purity of heart. Through the prayers of Saint Philip Benizi, strengthen our clergy and religious to lead with humility and kindness. Bless our families with unity, joy, and the peace that comes from You alone. Hear our prayers, O Lord, and grant us the grace to walk humbly with You all the days of our lives. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.🙏🏽

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Rose of Lima, and Saint Philip Benizi ~ 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 Saturday and a relaxing weekend 🙏🏽

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