THURSDAY OF THE THIRTY-THIRD WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: NOVEMBER 20, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day
MEMORIAL OF SAINT FELIX OF VALOIS, CO-FOUNDER; SAINT BERNWARD, BISHOP; SAINT EDMUND THE MARTYR AND BLESSED MARIA FORTUNATA VITI, RELIGIOUS | NOVEMBER 20TH | Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Mechtildis of Saint Felix of Valois, Saint Bernward, Saint Edmund the Martyr, and Blessed Maria Fortunata Viti | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-november-20th/
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | November 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-november-20-2025/
DAY 7: NOVENA TO CHRIST THE KING | NOVEMBER 14-22, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/novena-to-christ-the-king/
Novena to Christ the King starts November 14, 2025! The Novena is prayed any time of year, but traditionally prayed Nine Days Prior to the Solemnity of Christ the King on November 23, 2025
MOTHER OF THE FAITHFUL PEOPLE OF GOD (MATER POPULI FIDELIS) | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/mother-of-the-faithful-people-of-god-mater-populi-fidelis/
THE HOLY ROSARY: WHAT IS THE HOLY ROSARY AND WHY DO WE PRAY THE HOLY ROSARY? | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/11/21/the-holy-rosary-what-is-the-holy-rosary-and-why-do-we-pray-the-holy-rosary/
PURGATORY: WHAT IS PURGATORY? | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/11/15/purgatory-and-limbo/
LITANY OF THE SAINTS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/litany-of-the-saints/
THE SAINTS: WHO ARE THEY AND HOW ARE THEY CANONISED? | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/the-saints-who-are-they-and-how-are-they-canonised/
KIND REMINDER: JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE 2025 HOLY DOOR SCHEDULE TIMELINES | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/jubilee-of-hope-2025/
DR. PHILOMENA IKOWE AND HER JOYFUL CATHOLIC WITNESS | LIGHTS, CATHOLIC, ACTION! | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/dr-philomena-ikowe-and-her-joyful-catholic-witness/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family!
Today, on this Thursday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time, the Church invites us once more to listen attentively to God’s Word as we draw near the end of the liturgical year. We also honor several remarkable witnesses of faith whose lives continue to inspire the Church: Saint Felix of Valois (Co-Founder), Saint Bernward, Bishop, Saint Edmund the Martyr, and Blessed Maria Fortunata Viti, Religious. Their examples of charity, courage, holiness, and humble service remind us that every generation is called to remain steadfast in God’s truth. As we enter today’s reflection, we open our hearts to receive the grace God desires for us through the Scriptures and the intercession of these holy men and women.
We joyfully thank God for the gift of life and for leading us safely in this month of November. As we continue this sacred journey of faith, we give thanks for God’s boundless mercy and the hope of eternal life promised to those who believe in Him. May the witness of the Saints and the faith of our loved ones who have gone before us inspire us to live each day in holiness, humility, and love. This month of November, dedicated to the Holy Souls in Purgatory, invites us to pray fervently for our departed loved ones and for all who await the fullness of heavenly joy. We especially remember those who mourn, that they may find comfort and peace in the promise of resurrection. Through the prayers of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of All Saints, may God grant eternal rest to the faithful departed, healing to the brokenhearted, and grace to all who seek His mercy. May this new month bring light to our minds, peace to our hearts, and strength to our souls. Amen🙏🏽
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” ~ Matthew 5:4
We join our Holy Father Pope Leo XIV to pray for the gentle repose of the souls of our dear beloved late Pope Francis, the Cardinals, Bishops, Priests and Religious who have gone to be with the Lord. We also remember in prayer all who began this journey of life with us but are no longer here. We pray for the gentle repose of the souls of our loved ones who recently passed away, and we continue to pray for the souls in Purgatory; lost souls. For the repose of the souls of all the faithful departed, may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom.
“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His Saints.” ~ Psalm 116:15
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 and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen🙏🏽✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯
Lord Almighty, we lift our hearts in gratitude for Your unfailing love, protection, and mercy that carried us through the past month. We entrust the days of November into Your hands, asking for Your blessings, guidance, and peace upon our lives and families. May this month be for us a time of renewed faith, deeper hope, and overflowing joy. We pray especially for all families, for children, parents, and teachers, that they may be strengthened and protected. Bless those who will celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, new opportunities, and milestones this month, and comfort those who enter it with heavy hearts or struggles. Lord, go before us, walk beside us, and remain with us always, now and forever. Amen. 🙏🏽
Today, we humbly pray for the poor, abandoned, and those in need, for all those who are marginalized in our society. For those who are imprisoned, especially those who are unjustly imprisoned. We pray for charitable organizations, asking God’s blessing upon their mission and we lift our prayers for peace, love, justice and unity in our families, marriages and our world. May God protect us all and keep us safe and united in peace, love and faith. Amen 🙏🏽
Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary on this special Feast day, we lift our prayers for the protection, safety and well-being of healthcare professionals, educators, missionaries, pilots, and all travelers. We ask for healing for the sick and dying, especially those who are suffering from cancers and other terminal diseases, strength for the weary, peace in troubled homes, and provision for all in need. Guide our steps in righteousness, protect us from harm, and fill our hearts with faith, joy, and gratitude. May this month draw us closer to Your will, and may every day be a testimony of Your goodness and mercy in our lives. We begin this month with trust in Your unfailing love, Lord, and we surrender all that lies ahead into Your hands. Amen 🙏🏾
We continue to 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.
Through the intercession of St. Joseph, we pray for all fathers, mothers, workers, and all those who labor 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 Ordinary Time. Wishing us all and our loved ones a joyful, peaceful, and grace-filled month of November. 🙏🏽
DAY 7: NOVENA TO CHRIST THE KING | NOVEMBER 14-22, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/novena-to-christ-the-king/
Novena to Christ the King starts 14th November, 2025! The Novena is prayed any time of year, but traditionally prayed Nine Days Prior to the Solemnity of Christ the King on November 23, 2025
From November 14–22, 2025, we join the universal Church in praying this novena with devotion and trust, asking Christ the King to reign in our hearts and strengthen us in faith.
PRAYER: Almighty and merciful God, you break the power of evil and make all things new in your Son Jesus Christ, the King of the universe. May all in heaven and earth acclaim your glory and never cease to praise you. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.🙏🏾
Recite One Our Father, One Hail Mary and One Glory Be per day followed by the Novena Prayer:
O Lord our God, You alone are the Most Holy King and Ruler of all nations. We pray to You, Lord, in the great expectation of receiving from You, O Divine King, mercy, peace, justice and all good things. Protect, O Lord our King, our families and the land of our birth. Guard us we pray, Most Faithful One. Protect us from our enemies and from Your Just Judgment. Forgive us, O Sovereign King, our sins against You. Jesus, You are a King of Mercy. We have deserved Your Just Judgment. Have mercy on us, Lord, and forgive us. We trust in Your Great Mercy. O most awe-inspiring King, we bow before You and pray; May Your Reign, Your Kingdom, be recognized on earth. Amen. 🙏🏾
NOVENA TO CHRIST THE KING | NOVEMBER 14-22, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/novena-to-christ-the-king/
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
KIND REMINDER: JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE 2025 HOLY DOOR SCHEDULE TIMELINES | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/jubilee-of-hope-2025/
The Jubilee began with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024, and will conclude with the closing of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica on January 6, 2026. The Holy Doors at the other major basilicas (St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls) will be closed on Sunday, December 28, 2025
Individuals who cannot travel to Rome can participate in the Jubilee by making a pilgrimage to a local designated site. For a complete list of local pilgrimage sites, check with your local diocese.
OPENING OF THE HOLY DOORS SCHEDULES | JUBILEE OF HOPE 2025
Pope Francis opens the Holy Door Ushering in the Jubilee of Hope | ‘Hope is Alive’ | Vatican News | December 24, 2024 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/jubilee-of-hope-2025/
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/
PURGATORY: WHAT IS PURGATORY? | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/11/15/purgatory-and-limbo/
PURGATORY: The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines purgatory as a “purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven,” which is experienced by those “who die in God’s grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified” (CCC 1030). It notes that “this final purification of the elect . . . is entirely different from the punishment of the damned” (CCC 1031). The purification is necessary because, as Scripture teaches, nothing unclean will enter the presence of God in heaven (Rev. 21:27) and, while we may die with our mortal sins forgiven, there can still be many impurities in us, specifically venial sins and the temporal punishment due to sins already forgiven.
What Happens in Purgatory?: When we die, we undergo what is called the particular, or individual, judgment. Scripture says that “it is appointed for men to die once, and after that comes judgment” (Heb. 9:27). We are judged instantly and receive our reward, for good or ill. We know at once what our final destiny will be. At the end of time, when Jesus returns, there will come the general judgment to which the Bible refers, for example, in Matthew 25:31-32: “When the Son of man comes in His glory, and all the angels with him, then He will sit on His glorious throne. Before Him will be gathered all the nations, and He will separate them one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. In this general judgment all our sins will be publicly revealed (Luke 12:2–5).
November is a month when we remember our dead in a special way. It is a month when we are prone to reflecting on death, not in a morbid way but in the hopeful way that is rooted in our faith. On this special Feast day, as we continue to remember the faithful departed, please let us remember to pray for the Poor Souls in Purgatory this month of November and always. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and all the Saints, we humbly pray for the souls of our faithful departed loved ones, for the souls in Purgatory and the repose of the souls of all the faithful departed.🙏🏽
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:
Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Thursday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading
Today’s Bible Readings: Thursday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time | November 20, 2025
Reading 1: 1 Maccabees 2:15–29
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 50:1b–2, 5–6, 14–15
Gospel: Luke 19:41–44
Gospel Reading ~ Luke 19:41–44
“If this day you only knew what makes for peace…”
As Jesus drew near Jerusalem, he saw the city and wept over it, saying, “If this day you only knew what makes for peace–but now it is hidden from your eyes. For the days are coming upon you when your enemies will raise a palisade against you; they will encircle you and hem you in on all sides. They will smash you to the ground and your children within you, and they will not leave one stone upon another within you because you did not recognize the time of your visitation.”
In today’s Gospel we encounter one of the rare moments in Scripture when Jesus openly weeps. His tears are not for Himself but for Jerusalem, God’s chosen city that failed to recognize the peace and salvation offered to her. Jesus’ lament is filled with deep tenderness and profound sorrow. He longs for His people to embrace the way of peace, mercy, repentance, and faith, but their hearts are hardened. Because they missed “the time of [their] visitation,” they would face devastation. At the beginning of His ministry, Jesus announced that God was powerfully reigning in and through His ministry, ‘the kingdom of God is at hand’. God’s life-giving power was at work through Jesus for the healing of the sick, for the forgiving of sinners, for the inclusion of the excluded and for the accepting of the rejected. Yet, today’s Gospel reading reminds us that there were limits to this power of God working through Jesus. Jesus weeping over the city of Jerusalem was because its people, especially its leaders, did not recognize the opportunity God was offering everyone in and through His ministry. For all His power, Jesus was powerless because of their refusal to recognize that His coming was a visit from God. The power of Jesus was the power of love, the power of a divine love which is stronger than sin and death. All love, even divine love, must be freely received because it is in the nature of love to be a free gift. The tears of Jesus speak volumes about the capacity of human freedom to reject the gift of God’s unconditional love offered to us through His Son. The Lord’s tears could be shed for any of us because we can all fail to recognize the opportunity when God offers us. Yet, the good news, the Gospel, is that our failure need never have the last word because God’s love revealed in Jesus is stronger than our failure and it endures in the face of it.
This moment invites us to reflect on the tragedy of missed grace, those moments when God draws near, offering mercy, healing, or direction, but we fail to recognize Him. Jesus’ tears reveal the heart of God: He does not desire destruction, judgment, or loss. He desires conversion, peace, and relationship. His lament is an invitation for us to examine our lives: Do we recognize God’s voice when He calls? Do we embrace His way of peace, or do we resist His promptings out of fear, pride, or distraction? The destruction Jesus foretells came to pass in AD 70, but His words echo across generations: the cost of rejecting God’s invitation is always devastation, spiritually, morally, and socially. True peace is only found in embracing Christ. Without Him, even the most secure structures crumble.
In the First Reading, Mattathias stands as a powerful example of unwavering fidelity. Pressured to compromise the covenant and offered honor, wealth, and status in return, he responds with courage: “God forbid that we should forsake the law and the commandments.” His zeal is not reckless violence but a resolute stand for truth in the face of forced apostasy. His defiance inspires others to rise, flee to the desert, and preserve their faith and identity. Mattathias reminds us that fidelity often requires sacrifice. Remaining faithful to God may cost comfort, acceptance, or security. Yet covenant loyalty is priceless. His cry “Let everyone who is zealous for the law… follow after me!” still rings today, calling us to courage in moments of moral and spiritual testing.
Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, “To the upright I will show the saving power of God.” The Psalm affirms that God draws near to the faithful, those who honor Him with lives of sincerity and obedience. God does not delight in empty rituals but in hearts that offer praise, fulfill their promises, and call upon Him with trust. He promises rescue, guidance, and salvation, echoing the peace Jesus longed to give Jerusalem. True worship is lived fidelity.
As we meditate on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we are invited to reflect deeply: Do I recognize the moments when God visits my life, through His Word, the sacraments, opportunities for conversion, acts of love, or moments of correction? Or am I distracted, resistant, or spiritually asleep? Do I cling to God with the courage of Mattathias, even when others compromise? Do I allow the Lord’s invitations to reshape my priorities, decisions, and relationships? Have I hardened my heart in any area, refusing peace, resisting truth, or ignoring grace? How is God inviting me today to return to Him with openness, trust, and obedience? May our hearts remain soft and attentive, ready to welcome the Lord whenever He comes. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace as we remain steadfast in faith and continue to serve Him in spirit and in truth. 🙏🏽
Lord Jesus, You wept over Jerusalem because Your people did not recognize the gift of peace You came to bring. Open our hearts, Lord, that we may never miss Your voice, Your presence, or Your invitations to grace. Soften what is hardened within us. Strengthen us, like Mattathias, to remain faithful in moments of trial and temptation. Teach us to walk in Your ways, to love Your truth, and to respond generously to every grace You offer. Grant us the wisdom to know what leads to peace and the courage to choose it daily. Amen. 🙏🏽
MEMORIAL OF SAINT FELIX OF VALOIS, CO-FOUNDER; SAINT BERNWARD, BISHOP; SAINT EDMUND THE MARTYR; AND BLESSED MARIA FORTUNATA VITI, RELIGIOUS ~ FEAST DAY: NOVEMBER 20TH: Today, the Church honors four holy witnesses whose lives reveal the breadth of God’s work in His people: Saint Felix of Valois, Co-Founder of the Trinitarian Order (a champion of charity who labored for the liberation of Christian captives); Saint Bernward, Bishop (a scholar, artist, and shepherd whose creativity and holiness enriched the Church in medieval Germany); Saint Edmund the Martyr (the courageous young king of East Anglia who died defending his faith against the invaders); and Blessed Maria Fortunata Viti, Religious (a humble Benedictine nun who attained remarkable holiness through decades of hidden service). Through their intercession, we pray for the sick and the dying, especially those suffering from cancer, heart diseases, mental illnesses, and other chronic or terminal conditions. We entrust widows and widowers, the poor, the needy, the oppressed, and victims of torture to God’s mercy. We remember the souls in Purgatory and the faithful departed, asking for their eternal rest. May God bring help to those in impossible situations, healing to broken hearts, and relief to all who suffer. Amen. 🙏🏾
Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections | November 20th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com
( Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Mechtildis of Saint Felix of Valois, Saint Bernward, Saint Edmund the Martyr, and Blessed Maria Fortunata Viti | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-november-20th/)
SAINT FELIX OF VALOIS, CO-FOUNDER OF THE TRINITARIAN ORDER: Saint Felix of Valois (1127–1212), a French nobleman who embraced the life of a hermit, is best known as the co-founder—alongside Saint John of Matha—of the Order of the Most Holy Trinity. Inspired by a divine revelation and strengthened by a deep love for the captives of war, he dedicated his life to freeing Christians enslaved by the Saracens. Guided by an angelic vision, Felix journeyed to Rome to obtain papal approval for the order, which Pope Innocent III granted, revealing the now-iconic Trinitarian cross of red and blue. Under his leadership, the Trinitarians flourished, establishing hundreds of monasteries devoted to works of mercy. His life was marked by generosity, prophetic insight, and profound devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, who once appeared to him clothed in the Trinitarian habit. He died at Cerfroid, the motherhouse of the order, after a life spent liberating captives and uplifting the poor.
PRAYER: O Most Holy Trinity, through the intercession of Saint Felix of Valois, fill our hearts with charity and zeal for the freedom and dignity of all Your children. Amen. 🙏🏽
SAINT BERNWARD, BISHOP: Saint Bernward (c. 960–1022), the thirteenth Bishop of Hildesheim, was a man of remarkable intellect, creativity, and Christian virtue. Orphaned early, he was educated under the brilliant scholar Thangmar, developing mastery in mathematics, painting, architecture, and the liturgical arts. Ordained a priest, he later served in the imperial court as tutor to the young Otto III before accepting election as Bishop of Hildesheim. As bishop, Bernward used his artistic talents for the glory of God—building churches, fostering sacred art, and crafting liturgical vessels of great beauty. He was deeply committed to prayer, asceticism, and pastoral care, joining the Benedictine Order shortly before his holy death. Canonized in 1193, he is remembered as a bishop who integrated holiness, creativity, and leadership to strengthen the Church.
PRAYER: God our Shepherd, through the guidance of Saint Bernward, inspire us to use our gifts for Your glory and for the renewal of Your Church. Amen. 🙏🏽
SAINT EDMUND THE MARTYR: Saint Edmund (841–869), King of East Anglia, ascended the throne as a teenager and ruled with justice, courage, and devotion to Christ. When the Danes invaded his kingdom, Edmund refused to renounce his faith or abandon his people. Captured and brutally tortured—shot with arrows, beaten, and beheaded—he called upon the name of Jesus until his final breath. His martyrdom at the hands of the pagan invaders made him one of England’s most revered royal saints. His shrine at Bury St. Edmunds became a major pilgrimage site, inspiring countless conversions. Saint Edmund is honored as a patron against torture, plague, and pandemics, a symbol of unwavering fidelity in the face of violence and oppression.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, by the courageous witness of Saint Edmund, strengthen us to remain faithful to You, even in trials. Amen. 🙏🏽
BLESSED MARIA FORTUNATA VITI, RELIGIOUS: Blessed Maria Fortunata Viti (1827–1922) was an Italian Benedictine nun whose holiness was forged in the hiddenness of daily service. Raised in poverty by an alcoholic and unstable father, she became the caregiver of her younger siblings after her mother’s early death. At twenty-four, she entered the Benedictine monastery of Veroli, where she spent over seventy years performing simple household tasks—laundry, mending, cleaning—with profound humility and love. Though illiterate, she possessed deep spiritual insight and endured intense demonic oppression with steadfast faith. Devoted to the Blessed Sacrament, she often paused her work to pray at the tabernacle. After her death, numerous miracles were reported at her tomb. She is a patron against poverty, the loss of parents, temptations, and mental affliction.
PRAYER: Merciful God, through the example of Blessed Maria Fortunata, teach us the power of humility, perseverance, and hidden holiness. Amen. 🙏🏽
Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Felix of Valois, Saint Bernward, Saint Edmund the Martyr, and Blessed Maria Fortunata Viti ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏾
GENERAL PRAYERS AND INTENTIONS | PRAYERS FOR PEACE | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/general-prayers-and-intentions/
LIST OF ALL NOVENAS | Month of November | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/list-of-all-novenas-november/
COMMON CATHOLIC PRAYERS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/common-catholic-prayers/
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 NOVEMBER: For the prevention of suicide. Let us pray that those who are struggling with suicidal thoughts might find the support, care and love they need in their community, and be open to the beauty of life.
(https://popesprayerusa.net/popes-intentions/)
DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER | MONTH OF THE HOLY SOULS: November is dedicated to the Holy Souls in Purgatory, a month of prayerful remembrance for all the faithful departed who await the joy of Heaven. The Church calls us to intercede for them through our prayers, sacrifices, and Masses, trusting in God’s mercy to purify their souls and welcome them into eternal light. These souls, known as the Church Suffering, are united with the Church Triumphant in Heaven and the Church Militant on earth, one communion of love bound together in Christ.
This devotion is beautifully expressed in the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls’ Day) on November 2, which follows the Solemnity of All Saints on November 1. As the liturgical year draws to a close, the Church invites us to reflect on eternity, on the hope of resurrection and the promise of Heaven. Each prayer offered for the departed becomes an act of mercy that brings comfort to their souls and strengthens our own journey toward holiness.
“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
May they rest in peace. Amen.” 🙏🏽
https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12540
PRAYER INTENTIONS: Today, as we reflect on Christ’s sorrow over Jerusalem in the Gospel and draw inspiration from the courage, fidelity, and humility of Saints Felix of Valois, Bernward, Edmund the Martyr, and Blessed Maria Fortunata Viti, we bring our prayers before God with trust. We pray for the grace to recognize the Lord’s visitation in our daily lives and not allow hardness of heart or spiritual blindness to keep us from His peace. We lift up all who suffer, especially the sick, the dying, those battling cancer, heart disease, mental illness, or chronic pain, and all who feel overwhelmed by fear or uncertainty. We pray for those enduring persecution, violence, or oppression, that they may find protection and deliverance. We remember widows and widowers, families struggling with poverty, victims of injustice, and those trapped in situations that feel impossible. We pray also for the poor, the lonely, the marginalized, and all who long for God’s mercy. Through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother and the saints we celebrate today, we commend to God the souls in Purgatory, the faithful departed, and all entrusted to our prayers. May the Lord grant us the courage to defend truth like Saint Edmund, the compassion to serve the oppressed like Saint Felix, the dedication to holiness like Saint Bernward, and the humility of Blessed Maria Fortunata in our daily tasks. Amen🙏🏾
LET US PRAY:
My sorrowful Lord, You endured the sins of many. You were treated with cruelty and injustice. To all of these sins, including those that you foresaw, You reacted with the love of holy sorrow. And that sorrow led you to true compassion and concern for all. Please give me the grace to imitate this same love of Yours so that I, too, may share in the holiness of Your sorrowful heart. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽
Lord Jesus Christ, You wept over Jerusalem because Your people did not recognize the peace You came to give. As we meditate on Your Word today, open our hearts to receive Your mercy, soften our spirits to Your guidance, and make us eager to follow Your will. Grant us the courage of the Maccabees to stand firm in faith, the freedom of heart to offer true worship, and the humility to trust completely in Your saving love. Through the intercession of the Saints of the day, pour out Your grace on all who are suffering, all who seek healing, and all who feel forgotten. Strengthen the weak, console the afflicted, protect the vulnerable, and renew in us a spirit of peace. Keep us faithful, steadfast, and hopeful as we journey toward the fullness of Your Kingdom. Amen🙏🏾
Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Felix of Valois, Saint Bernward, Saint Edmund the Martyr, and Blessed Maria Fortunata Viti ~ 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 on this Thursday of the Thirty-third Week in 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. As we continue our journey through the month of November, we lift our hearts in gratitude for the blessings of the past and entrust the days ahead into God’s loving hands. May this month, dedicated to praying for the Holy Souls, be filled with hope, peace, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ walks with us always. Alleluia! Have a blessed, safe, grace-filled, and fruitful Thursday, a fruitful week ahead and a peaceful continuation of the month of November. 🙏🏽
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