THE SOLEMNITY OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, KING OF THE UNIVERSE | YEAR C | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/the-solemnity-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-king-of-the-universe/
THE ANNUAL GLOBAL CELEBRATION OF YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS | November 23, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/the-annual-global-celebration-of-youth-and-young-adults-november-23-2025/
SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: NOVEMBER 23, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day
MEMORIAL OF SAINT CLEMENT I, POPE AND MARTYR; SAINT COLUMBAN, ABBOT AND BLESSED MIGUEL AGUSTIN PRO, PRIEST AND MARTYR | NOVEMBER 23RD | Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Clement I, Saint Columban, and Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-november-23rd/
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Watch “HOLY MASS FOR THE SOLEMNITY OF CHRIST THE KING, ANGELUS AND JUBILEE OF CHOIRS | PRESIDED BY POPE LEO XIV | LIVE FROM THE VATICAN, ST. PETER’S SQUARE | NOVEMBER 23, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-daily-mass-november-23-2025/
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | November 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-november-23-2025/
2025 NATIONAL CATHOLIC YOUTH CONFERENCE | POPE LEO XIV’S FIRST LIVE DIGITAL ENCOUNTER WITH THE UNITED STATES YOUTH | NOVEMBER 21, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/pope-leo-xivs-first-live-digital-encounter-with-the-united-states-youth-november-21-2025/
PRAY FOR NIGERIA, THE CONTINENT OF AFRICA AND ALL KIDNAPPED CHILDREN | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/pray-for-nigeria-and-the-continent-of-africa/
NOVENA TO CHRIST THE KING | NOVEMBER 14-22, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/novena-to-christ-the-king/
Novena to Christ the King is prayed any time of year, but traditionally prayed Nine Days Prior to the Solemnity of Christ the King on November 23, 2025
PURGATORY: WHAT IS PURGATORY? | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/11/15/purgatory-and-limbo/
KIND REMINDER: JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE 2025 HOLY DOOR SCHEDULE TIMELINES | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/jubilee-of-hope-2025/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family and Happy Feast of Christ the King!
Today, on this blessed Thirty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time, the Church celebrates the great occasion of Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, celebrating and honouring the Kingship of Our Lord, His Universal Dominion and Kingship, Mastery and Rule over the whole Creation and over all things and we also mark the Annual Global Youth and Young Adults celebration.
Today is the Last Sunday in Ordinary Time for this current liturgical year. Beginning next Sunday, the season of Advent will begin and it will also mark the beginning of the new liturgical year cycle. The Church concludes this liturgical year by proclaiming that Jesus Christ is the center of all creation, the Lord of history, and the gentle King who reigns not by force but by love. This feast reminds us that every power, authority, and kingdom finds its fulfillment in Him. Christ the King invites us to surrender our fears, trust in His victorious love, and allow His grace to order our lives according to truth, justice, and peace. As we celebrate this solemnity, we renew our commitment to live as citizens of His Kingdom where mercy triumphs, hope endures, and every human life is cherished. We lift our hearts to Christ, the King whose throne is the Cross and whose kingdom is founded on mercy, truth, and eternal love. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, We pray for God’s grace and mercy and for the safety and well-being of our youth and young adults ~ Amen 🙏🏽
As we honor His supreme authority over heaven and earth, we also celebrate the Memorial of Saint Clement I, Pope and Martyr; Saint Columban, Abbot; and Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro, Priest and Martyr, three heroic witnesses who proclaimed the kingship of Christ not by power or prestige, but by fidelity, sacrifice, and unwavering faith. May their example inspire us to recognize Jesus as the true ruler of our lives and to allow His grace to reign in our thoughts, decisions, and daily actions.
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. 🙏🏽
PRAY FOR NIGERIA AND THE CONTINENT OF AFRICA | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/pray-for-nigeria-and-the-continent-of-africa/
As we rejoice in Christ’s kingship and Annual Global Youth and Young Adults celebration today, our hearts remain deeply troubled by the ongoing kidnappings of innocent children across Nigeria. Many young ones remain missing, separated from their families, deprived of safety, and exposed to unimaginable fear. We unite our voices with grieving parents, distressed communities, and all Nigerians longing for peace.
At the same time, we remember the wider continent of Africa, where many nations continue to face violence, instability, hardship, and insecurity. We ask Christ the King, our Shepherd, Protector, and Prince of Peace, to stretch out His mighty hand over Nigeria and all of Africa: to defend the vulnerable, free the captives, heal wounded lands, and restore the dignity and safety of every child, every family, and every community.
May this celebration of Christ’s reign inspire us to work relentlessly for justice, healing, reconciliation, and lasting peace throughout our nation and across the African continent.
A PRAYER FOR NIGERIA, AFRICA, AND ALL KIDNAPPED CHILDREN
Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, You who welcomed children with tenderness and defended the vulnerable, we place before You all the kidnapped children across Nigeria and every nation in Africa where insecurity, conflict, and violence endanger Your sons and daughters. Surround them with Your protection, preserve their lives, and swiftly bring them back to their families unharmed.
Comfort the parents whose hearts are breaking, strengthen communities living in fear, and guide leaders and authorities across Africa to act with wisdom, courage, and integrity.
Lord, stretch forth Your hand over Nigeria and the entire African continent. Cast out every spirit of violence, corruption, and evil. Let Your peace reign in our homes, schools, roads, nations, and communities. Guard our youth and young adults, shield every family, and renew Africa with Your justice, mercy, and truth.
O Christ our King, restore safety to Nigeria and to all of Africa, that justice may flourish, peace may return, and Your light may shine in every land.Amen. 🙏🏽
THE ANNUAL GLOBAL CELEBRATION OF YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS | NOVEMBER 23, 2025
On the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, the Church celebrates the Annual Global Celebration of Young People, recognizing the presence, dignity, and mission of youth and young adults within the Church’s life.
In 2020, Pope Francis renewed this observance and transferred the diocesan celebration of World Youth Day (WYD) from Palm Sunday to Christ the King Sunday, emphasizing that young people are living signs of Christ’s Kingdom and essential contributors to the Church’s mission today. Young people remain vital witnesses of hope, joy, and renewal, signs that God’s Kingdom is growing in the world.
GLOBAL CELEBRATION THEMES
39th Global Celebration / World Youth Day, 2024–2025 Theme:“Those who hope in the Lord will run and not be weary” (Isaiah 40:31).
40th Global Celebration / World Youth Day, 2025–2026 Theme:“You also are my witnesses, because you have been with me” (John 15:27).
This year’s new theme invites young people to embrace their identity as witnesses of Christ, called to testify with their lives, words, choices, and daily actions.
A PRAYER FOR YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS
“Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, to You we turn in humble prayer. Look with love upon all young people, bearers of hope for the Church and the world. Guide their steps in discernment, strengthen them in hardship, and draw them close through the constant support of Your Church. Open our hearts to journey together, young and old, to awaken hope, encourage dreams, and nurture their witness in the world. Lord Jesus, Redeemer of all humankind, in the unity of the Father and the Holy Spirit, graciously hear our prayer and remain with us forever. Amen.” ~ Adapted from Christus Vivit, 199We pray for the protection, growth, and flourishing of all youth and young adults. Amen. 🙏🏽
THE SOLEMNITY OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, KING OF THE UNIVERSE: The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe ends the liturgical year, this feast of Christ the King is the last Sunday of the liturgical year before a new liturgical year begins with the first Sunday of Advent, next Sunday. Today’s feast focuses on the Authority of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each year the church celebrates the Solemnity of Christ the King to acknowledge the Kingship of Jesus Christ. For Jesus Chris is the King of All Creation and the Redeemer of Mankind. He deserves all glory, honor, and praise.
The Feast of Christ the King was instituted by Pope Pius XI for the universal Church during the Jubilee Year of 1925 in his encyclical Quas Primas as an antidote in order to combat a global rise in the evils of atheism, secularism, and communism due to the majority of mankind having rejected Christ and his law, a way of life which leaves God out of man’s thinking and living and organizes his life as if God did not exist. Pope Pius XI declared that without honoring the authority of Christ as King, the world would have no hope of lasting peace. His goal was that all world leaders, governments, and nations would honor Christ the King in their civil and political affairs, as well as uphold the rights of His Church, and that the faithful would be reminded that Jesus must reign as King in each individual heart, mind, will, and body.
This feast is intended to proclaim in a striking and effective manner Christ’s royalty over individuals, families, society, governments, and nations. Pope Saint Paul VI expanded its name to “King of the Universe” in 1969. Jesus is not just a King of Hearts. He is more than a Universal Coach, Teacher, or Consoler of mankind. By “King of the Universe” the Church is communicating Jesus’ metaphysical scale, that God encompasses all of reality, not just man’s reality. We say in the Nicene Creed that God created all things visible and invisible. So Jesus is King over all the planets, stars, black holes, quasars, and exploding suns in the blackest corners of remote space. He is King over the earth and all its waterfalls, rainforests, mountain peaks, desert plains, and dark sea floors. He lords over all creation because He is its source. Saint Thomas Aquinas taught correctly when he wrote that God is not the most perfect being inside of creation but Being itself. God is reality, not just the most impressive being inhabiting the reality bubble. Today’s feast calls on us to grow as disciples of Christ the King by bearing witness to the way of truth and love that Jesus embodied .
A partial indulgence is granted to the faithful, who piously recite the Act of Dedication of the Human Race to Jesus Christ King. A plenary indulgence is granted to the faithful who on this day will:
☆Publicly recite the Act of Dedication of the Human Race to Jesus Christ King.
☆Say one Our Father and one Hail Mary for the intentions of the Pope.
☆Make a Sacramental Confession within a week of (before or after) the Feast of Christ the King.
☆Receive Holy Communion.
ACT OF DEDICATION TO THE HUMAN RACE TO JESUS CHRIST KING: Most sweet Jesus, Redeemer of the human race, look down upon us humbly prostrate before you. We are yours, and yours we wish to be; but to be more surely united with you, behold each one of us freely consecrates himself today to your Most Sacred Heart. Many indeed have never known you; many, too, despising your precepts, have rejected you. Have mercy on them all, most merciful Jesus, and draw them to your Sacred Heart. Be King, O Lord, not only of the faithful who have never forsaken you, but also of the prodigal children who have abandoned you; grant that they may quickly return to their Father’s house, lest they die of wretchedness and hunger. Be King of those who are deceived by erroneous opinions, or whom discord keeps aloof, and call them back to the harbor of truth and the unity of faith, so that soon there may be but one flock and one Shepherd. Grant, O Lord, to your Church assurance of freedom and immunity from harm; give tranquility of order to all nations; make the earth resound from pole to pole with one cry: Praise to the divine Heart that wrought our salvation; to it be glory and honor for ever…Amen🙏🏾
PRAYER: Christ the King, Your sovereignty over all creation is not heavy. You order all reality toward Yourself and govern Your creatures with justice and humility. Help us to be faithful and subservient to what You desire, so that we can live one day in Your heavenly kingdom… Amen 🙏🏾
Almighty ever-living God, whose will is to restore all things in your beloved Son, the King of the universe, grant, we pray, that the whole creation, set free from slavery, may render your majesty service and ceaselessly proclaim your praise. 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 🙏🏾
SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:
Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Sunday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading
Today’s Bible Readings: Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe | November 23, 2025
Reading 1: 2 Samuel 5:1–3
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 122:1–2, 3–4, 4–5
Reading 2: Colossians 1:12–20
Gospel: Luke 23:35–43
Gospel Reading ~ Luke 23:35–43
“Amen, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
“The rulers sneered at Jesus and said, “He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Christ of God.” Even the soldiers jeered at him. As they approached to offer him wine they called out, “If you are King of the Jews, save yourself.” Above him there was an inscription that read, “This is the King of the Jews.” Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us.” The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply, “Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” He replied to him, “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
In today’s Gospel, Jesus is revealed as a King unlike any other, a King who reigns not from a throne of gold, but from the Cross; not with armies and earthly power, but through mercy, forgiveness, and sacrificial love. As rulers, soldiers, and crowds mock Him, Jesus does not retaliate; He continues to love. At His side hangs a repentant criminal, a man whose life had been marked by sin and failure, yet who recognized Jesus’ true kingship at the very moment the world rejected Him. With a single humble plea, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom” he receives one of the most beautiful promises in Scripture: “Today you will be with Me in Paradise.” This moment reveals the heart of Christ the King: a King who desires to save, not condemn; a King whose kingdom is built not on domination, but on mercy; a King who opens the door of eternal life even in His final breath. The Gospel invites us to examine our own response to Jesus’ kingship: Do we mock Him by resisting His will, or do we, like the good thief, surrender ourselves and allow His mercy to transform us?
In the First Reading, we witness the tribes of Israel uniting to anoint David as king, acknowledging that God Himself had chosen him to shepherd His people. Though David’s kingship was earthly and imperfect, it foreshadows the perfect kingship of Christ. Just as Israel proclaimed, “Here we are, your bone and your flesh,” we too belong to Christ, the Son of David, who gathers His people into one body. Jesus fulfills what David only prefigured, He is the true Shepherd-King who leads, protects, and lays down His life for His flock. The reading reminds us that kingship in God’s eyes is not about dominance but service, not about power but sacrifice. It calls us to recognize Christ as our Shepherd, accept His guidance, and align our lives with His will.
Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, we echo the joyful cry: “Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.” The Psalm speaks of unity, worship, and the peace found in God’s presence. Jerusalem, the city of David, becomes a symbol of Christ’s kingdom, unified, holy, and ordered by God’s justice. As pilgrims longed to enter Jerusalem, we too long for the heavenly Jerusalem, the kingdom Christ opens for us. The psalm calls us to rejoice because our King is faithful; His kingdom is secure; His reign brings peace, justice, and unity to all who belong to Him.
In the Second Reading, Saint Paul lifts our hearts to contemplate the majesty and divinity of Christ. Jesus is “the image of the invisible God,” the One through whom all things were created and in whom all creation holds together. Yet this cosmic King is also the Redeemer who delivers us from darkness and brings us into His kingdom of light. He reconciles all things to Himself through the blood of His Cross, proving that His authority is not exercised through force but through self-giving love. This profound passage reminds us that Christ’s kingship spans heaven and earth, creation and redemption, time and eternity. The King who reigns from the Cross also reigns over the entire universe. To acknowledge Christ as King is to allow Him to reign over our thoughts, decisions, fears, relationships, and desires.
As we reflect and meditate on the words of the Sacred Scriptures on this special feast of Christ the King, we are invited to deeply examine our relationship with Christ the King. Do I truly allow Jesus to reign in my heart, or do I cling to my own desires and fears? Am I like the mocking thief, demanding that God meet my expectations, or like the repentant thief, humbly entrusting myself to His mercy? Do I recognize that Christ’s authority is rooted in love, and do I allow His love to shape my choices and guide my steps? Do I live as a citizen of His kingdom—seeking holiness, practicing mercy, and pursuing justice? Am I willing to surrender the areas of my life where Christ is not yet King, inviting Him to bring healing, order, and peace? Today we are called to renew our allegiance to Jesus, not merely with words, but with a life surrendered in trust and love.
As we honor Christ the King, let us renew our decision to live under His Lordship with sincerity, courage, and love. His kingship is not marked by force or earthly power but by the mercy that welcomes the repentant, the truth that liberates the humble, and the peace that heals the wounded. Today, Christ invites us, like the good thief, to turn toward Him with trust, allowing His grace to reorder our priorities, purify our intentions, and guide every aspect of our lives. May we leave this day determined to let Christ reign in our hearts, homes, choices, and relationships, so that our lives may reflect His kingdom of justice, mercy, and everlasting peace. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us the grace to work for the coming of God’s kingdom by bearing witness to the truth as courageously as Jesus did. May we grow as disciples of Christ the King bearing witness as we follow a King who is the way, the truth and the life. May the Lord bless us all in all of our good efforts, hard work and endeavours, and let us all and our devotion to our King continue to inspire many others in how we live our lives, becoming the great and shining beacons of truth, hope and love, revealing the Good News of God to all creation. Christus Vincit! Christus Regnat! Christus Imperat! Amen 🙏🏽
Lord Jesus Christ, our King and Redeemer, we bow before Your majesty and surrender our hearts to Your gentle and sovereign rule. Reign in our thoughts, purify our desires, and direct our steps according to Your will. Teach us to love as You love, to forgive as You forgive, and to trust in Your promise of eternal life. May Your kingdom take root within us and spread through every word we speak and every act we perform. Strengthen us to remain faithful in trials, humble in blessings, and steadfast in hope, until we dwell with You in the fullness of Your glory. Amen. 🙏🏾
MEMORIAL OF SAINT CLEMENT I, POPE AND MARTYR; SAINT COLUMBAN, ABBOT; AND BLESSED MIGUEL AGUSTÍN PRO, PRIEST AND MARTYR – FEAST DAY: NOVEMBER 23RD: Today, the Church commemorates three extraordinary witnesses of the Gospel: Saint Clement I, Pope and Martyr (Patron of mariners, stonecutters, marble workers, boatmen, and sick children); Saint Columban, Abbot (Patron against floods and of motorcyclists); and Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro, Priest and Martyr (Patron of priests, persecuted Christians, and those seeking courage in trials). Each of these holy servants reveals a unique facet of Christ’s love: steadfast leadership in the early Church, missionary zeal shaped by monastic discipline, and daring fidelity in the face of persecution. Their lives remind us that holiness is forged in courage, humility, sacrifice, and unwavering trust in the mercy of God. As we honor them today, may their intercession strengthen our faith and deepen our commitment to Christ. 🙏🏾
Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections | November 23rd https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com
(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Clement I, Saint Columban, and Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-november-23rd/)
SAINT CLEMENT I, POPE AND MARTYR: Saint Clement I (c. 92–101), the fourth Bishop of Rome after Saint Peter, is honored as one of the Apostolic Fathers—those early Christian leaders who received the faith directly from the Apostles. Tradition holds that Clement was a disciple of Saint Peter and is the same “Clement” mentioned by Saint Paul in Philippians 4:3. His leadership in the early Church is most evident in his famous Letter to the Corinthians, one of the earliest Christian writings outside Scripture. In it, Clement intervened with apostolic authority to restore unity in a troubled community—an early sign of the papal ministry of shepherding the universal Church.
Though much of his life is veiled in history, ancient accounts describe his exile to the region of Chersonese due to his zeal for evangelization. There, he strengthened thousands of Christian prisoners and, through prayer, obtained the miraculous spring of water that led many pagans to the faith. His martyrdom came under Emperor Trajan, who ordered that Clement be drowned with an anchor tied around his neck. His relics were later brought to Rome by Saints Cyril and Methodius and enshrined in the Basilica of San Clemente, one of Rome’s most ancient and treasured churches.
PRAYER: Almighty and ever-living God, You revealed Your glory through the steadfast faith of Saint Clement, who bore witness to Christ even unto death. Through his intercession, grant us the courage to defend the truth, the humility to serve Your Church, and the grace to live as faithful disciples. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏾
SAINT COLUMBAN, ABBOT: Saint Columban (c. 540–615), one of Ireland’s most renowned monks and missionaries, embraced a life of radical dedication to God from his youth. Formed in the monastic traditions of Bangor Abbey, he later journeyed to the European mainland with twelve companions around the year 585, igniting one of the great missionary movements of the early Middle Ages. His foundations at Annegray, Luxeuil, and Fontaines became centers of prayer, learning, and evangelization, shaping the spiritual landscape of France, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy.
Columban’s Celtic monastic customs stirred controversy, especially regarding liturgical practices and monastic independence. Yet he defended his traditions with charity and fidelity, even appealing to the Holy See while maintaining profound respect for papal authority. Exiled multiple times due to political conflict, Columban’s missionary zeal never wavered. His final years at Bobbio in Italy produced his lasting legacy—a flourishing monastery that became a beacon of Christian culture and reform.
PRAYER: O God, who called Saint Columban to spread the light of the Gospel through monastic discipline and missionary courage, grant that through his example we may seek You above all things and boldly witness to Your truth in our daily lives. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏾
BLESSED MIGUEL AGUSTÍN PRO, PRIEST AND MARTYR: Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro (1891–1927) was a Jesuit priest whose joyful spirit, profound charity, and heroic courage shone brightly during one of the darkest periods of religious persecution in Mexico. Born into a devout family, he grew up with a lively personality and an extraordinary compassion for the poor. Called to the priesthood, he pursued his Jesuit formation across the globe due to anti-Catholic hostility in his homeland and was ordained in Belgium in 1925.
Returning to Mexico in secret, Father Pro risked his life to administer the sacraments, aid the poor, and strengthen the faith of persecuted Catholics. He often disguised himself to carry out his ministry, approaching danger with humor, daring, and complete trust in God. Falsely accused of a crime he did not commit, he was executed without trial. His final words—“¡Viva Cristo Rey!” (“Long Live Christ the King!”)—echoed throughout the world as a testament to unwavering faith. Beatified in 1988, he remains a powerful witness to courage under persecution.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus Christ, You strengthened Blessed Miguel Pro with heroic faith and joyful sacrifice amid persecution. Through his intercession, grant us steadfast trust in Your kingship, courage in trials, and hearts ready to serve the poor and suffering. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏾
Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Clement I, Saint Columban, and Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro — Pray for us. 🙏🏾
GENERAL PRAYERS AND INTENTIONS | PRAYERS FOR PEACE | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/general-prayers-and-intentions/
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/
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/
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: As we celebrate the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, and honor Saint Clement I, Pope and Martyr; Saint Columban, Abbot; and Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro, Priest and Martyr, we turn our hearts to Christ our King, whose reign is marked by mercy, truth, and sacrificial love. We pray for the grace to acknowledge Jesus as the true center of our lives, just as the saints bore witness to His kingship through courage, holiness, and fidelity. May Christ the King bring unity and peace to our families, parishes, and communities, guiding leaders, pastors, and all God’s people in humility and righteousness. We pray for persecuted Christians, the poor, the oppressed, and all who suffer injustice or violence, that they may find strength in the King who chose a Cross for His throne. Through the intercession of these holy saints, we commend to God the sick, the dying, widows and widowers, the unemployed, those struggling with addictions, and all who carry heavy burdens. May the suffering Christ remember them in His Kingdom, just as He welcomed the repentant thief with words of hope and eternal life.
LET US PRAY:
My Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, You and You alone are worthy of our total trust and surrender in all things. I do choose You as my King today. I join with the good thief and come to You with all my sin, praying that You will remember me when You come into Your glorious Kingdom. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽
Lord Jesus Christ, our merciful King, You reign not with earthly power but with the strength of love poured out on the Cross. As we honor Saint Clement, Saint Columban, and Blessed Miguel Pro, faithful witnesses of courage, holiness, and missionary zeal, grant that we may follow their example by surrendering our lives to Your will. Help us to serve You in humility, to persevere in trials, and to proclaim Your Kingdom through our words and actions. Look with compassion upon our families, our Church, and all who cry out for healing, justice, and peace. Remember us, Lord, in Your Kingdom, and draw us into the fullness of Your light and glory. You live and reign forever and ever. Amen. 🙏🏽
Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, and Saint Clement I, Saint Columban, and Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro ~ 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 Sunday of the Thirty-fourth 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 Christ the King Sunday, 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 |
https://youtu.be/gB31nuOFx0A?si=mSoZs-wiByhGs
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