MEMORIAL OF SAINT SIRICIUS, POPE; SAINT SYLVESTER, ABBOT; SAINT PETER OF ALEXANDRIA, BISHOP AND MARTYR; SAINT LEONARD OF PORT MAURICE, PRIEST AND SAINT JOHN BERCHMANS, RELIGIOUS | NOVEMBER 26TH |

WEDNESDAY OF THE THIRTY-FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: NOVEMBER 26, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

MEMORIAL OF SAINT SIRICIUS, POPE; SAINT SYLVESTER, ABBOT; SAINT PETER OF ALEXANDRIA, BISHOP AND MARTYR; SAINT LEONARD OF PORT MAURICE, PRIEST AND SAINT JOHN BERCHMANS, RELIGIOUS | NOVEMBER 26TH | Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Siricius, Saint Sylvester, Saint Peter of Alexandria, Saint Leonard of Port Mauric and Saint John Berchmans | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-november-26th/

Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | “General Audience with Pope Leo XIV” | November 26, 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-26-2025/

PRAY FOR NIGERIA, THE CONTINENT OF AFRICA AND ALL KIDNAPPED CHILDREN | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/pray-for-nigeria-and-the-continent-of-africa/

LIST OF ALL NOVENAS | Month of November | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/list-of-all-novenas-november/

COMMON CATHOLIC PRAYERS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/common-catholic-prayers/

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/

KIND REMINDER: JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE 2025 HOLY DOOR SCHEDULE TIMELINES | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/jubilee-of-hope-2025/

Greetings and blessings, beloved family!

Today, on this Wednesday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time, the Church invites us once again to reflect on God’s enduring faithfulness as we approach the close of the liturgical year. In the Scripture readings, we witness the fall of earthly kingdoms, the call to steadfastness in trials, and the assurance that God’s sovereignty remains unshaken. We also honor a rich assembly of saints, Saint Siricius, Pope; Saint Sylvester, Abbot; Saint Peter of Alexandria, Bishop and Martyr; Saint Leonard of Port Maurice, Priest; and Saint John Berchmans, Religious, holy men who lived with courage, purity, and unwavering trust in God. Their testimonies strengthen our own journey of faith, reminding us that perseverance, humility, and fidelity to Christ are the enduring foundations of the Christian life. As we enter into today’s reflection, may our hearts be open to the wisdom of God’s Word and the example of these saints who walked before us with heroic love.

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. 🙏🏽

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

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

Today’s Bible Readings: Wednesday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time | November 26, 2025
Reading 1: Daniel 5:1–6, 13–14, 16–17, 23–28
Responsorial Psalm: Daniel 3:62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67
Gospel: Luke 21:12–19

Gospel Reading ~ Luke 21:12–19

“It will lead to your giving testimony… By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

“Jesus said to the crowd: “They will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name. It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

In today’s Gospel, Jesus prepares His disciples for the trials that accompany faithful discipleship. Jesus speaks these words as He is about to enter into His own passion and death. He chooses this moment to announce the future passion and death of His disciples. It is a grim picture of persecution, imprisonment, betrayal by family members, and hatred by all leading to execution. Jesus knew there was a great darkness ahead, not only for Himself but for His disciples, and He was facing it honestly and naming it. Yet, as Jesus speaks there is light in the darkness. He does not hide the reality of persecution, betrayal, or hardship; instead, He promises divine strength.

What seems like an occasion of suffering becomes an opportunity for testimony. Jesus assures His followers that they will not stand alone, He Himself will supply the wisdom, courage, and words they need. This message speaks powerfully to us today. While our trials may not be identical to those of the early Christians, we too face moments of misunderstanding, rejection, persecution, or pressure to compromise our faith. Yet Christ reminds us that perseverance rooted in trust becomes the path to life. Our security does not come from human approval, perfect planning, or worldly strength, but from the Lord who stands with His people in every trial.

The Gospel also invites us to discernment and courage. When confronted with challenges, conflicts, or opposition, we are called to speak and act guided by the Spirit rather than by fear or anxiety. Jesus transforms our vulnerabilities into occasions of witness, showing that faithfulness to Him is itself a source of protection and life. Through this promise, every act of trust and testimony becomes a seed of God’s Kingdom, even amid hostility. Jesus promises His disciples and us in today’s Gospel reading, ‘I myself will give you eloquence and wisdom’. In times of struggle and failure we are invited to rely on the resources the Lord gives us, so that we may endure to the end, and not just for a while. The Lord will always be present at the heart of all our struggles, all our ways of the cross. He is with us to help us to bear witness to Him, giving us all the resources we need to live the message of the Gospel to the full. He will be faithful to us and will provide for us. All He asks of us is to be faithful to Him in return, to show ‘endurance’, to keep travelling the journey of faith. At the end of our lives, it would be good to look back and say with Saint Paul, ‘I have fought the good fight… I have kept the faith’.

Reflecting on the First Reading, we encounter King Belshazzar, who misuses the sacred vessels taken from the Temple by turning them into instruments of arrogance and idolatry. As he and his nobles praise lifeless gods of gold and silver, a mysterious hand writes a message of divine judgment on the palace wall. Daniel interprets the divine words Mene, Tekel, Peres, revealing that the king’s time has run out, his deeds have been weighed and found wanting, and his kingdom will be divided. This powerful scene teaches us that God is not indifferent to human pride, injustice, or sacrilege. Belshazzar’s downfall shows that no amount of power, wealth, or influence can shield a person from divine accountability. At the same time, Daniel’s calm wisdom shines as an example of integrity. He refuses the king’s gifts and speaks the truth fearlessly. His confidence rests not in human reward but in God, who upholds justice and whose authority outlasts every earthly kingdom. The reading invites us to examine our hearts: Do we honor what is sacred? Do we use what God has entrusted to us with humility and reverence?

Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, creation itself becomes a hymn of praise: “Give glory and eternal praise to Him.” Sun, moon, stars, winds, fire, heat, cold all proclaim the majesty of the Lord. This cosmic litany serves as a gentle corrective to the arrogance shown by Belshazzar. While earthly rulers boast in their strength, creation humbly and joyfully praises the One who formed all things. The Psalm invites us to join this chorus of praise. When we bless the Lord in all circumstances, we align ourselves with the rhythm of creation and place God at the center of our lives. Praise lifts the soul above fear, pride, and distraction; it opens the way to trust and peace. In a world overwhelmed by noise, division, and uncertainty, this Psalm reminds us that our first call is to glorify God, whose goodness endures forever.

As we reflect and meditate on today’s Scriptures, we are invited to examine the foundations of our faith. Do I trust God when following Him leads to misunderstanding or difficulty? Do I rely on my own strength or on the wisdom Christ promises in moments of trial? Am I using the sacred gifts God has entrusted to me my time, my body, my resources, my responsibilities with reverence? Do I allow pride or carelessness to draw me away from God’s will? Do I praise God even when circumstances are challenging? And most importantly, am I persevering in faith, trusting that the Lord is with me and will secure my life according to His perfect plan? Beloved in Christ, today’s Scriptures urge us to remain steady, faithful, and watchful. Daniel shows us the courage to speak truth without fear, while Jesus assures us that trials are not signs of abandonment but opportunities for witness. The world may threaten, misunderstand, or oppose those who belong to Christ, yet His promise stands firm: “Not a hair on your head will be destroyed.” Earthly kingdoms rise and fall, but God’s reign is eternal. Therefore, let us anchor ourselves in His truth, honor what is sacred, persevere through difficulties, and praise God with joyful hearts. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace as we remain steadfast in faith and in the hope that Christ Himself sustains us and leads us to life. 🙏🏽

Lord God, Eternal King and Just Judge, You hold our life and destiny in Your hands; as we reflect on today’s Scriptures, grant us hearts that honor You with humility, reverence, and fidelity. Free us from pride, complacency, and every form of forgetfulness that turns us away from Your sovereignty. Strengthen us with the courage Jesus promised to His disciples, so that in moments of trial or misunderstanding, we may bear witness with wisdom guided by Your Spirit. Fill us with unwavering perseverance, deep trust, and a spirit of praise that rises above fear and uncertainty. Anchor our lives in Your eternal Kingdom the Kingdom that cannot be shaken and keep us faithful until the end, that we may receive the crown of life You have promised. Amen. 🙏🏽

MEMORIAL OF SAINT SIRICIUS, POPE; SAINT SYLVESTER, ABBOT; SAINT PETER OF ALEXANDRIA, BISHOP AND MARTYR; SAINT LEONARD OF PORT MAURICE, PRIEST; AND SAINT JOHN BERCHMANS, RELIGIOUS ~ FEAST DAY: NOVEMBER 26TH: Today, the Church celebrates five remarkable witnesses whose lives express the depth, courage, and holiness of Christian discipleship: Saint Siricius, Pope (a steadfast shepherd who strengthened the early Church through discipline, teaching, and pastoral unity); Saint Sylvester, Abbot (a nobleman-turned-hermit whose radical conversion gave rise to the Sylvestrine branch of the Benedictine tradition); Saint Peter of Alexandria, Bishop and Martyr (a courageous defender of faith and charity, remembered as the last martyr of the Diocletian persecutions); Saint Leonard of Port Maurice, Priest (the great 18th-century missionary whose preaching renewed countless souls and spread devotion to the Stations of the Cross); and Saint John Berchmans, Religious (a young Jesuit known for holiness in the little things, whose simplicity and fidelity became a path to sanctity). Through their intercession, we pray for the sick and the dying, especially those battling cancer, heart diseases, mental illnesses, and chronic or terminal conditions. We entrust widows and widowers, the poor, the needy, the oppressed, and victims of torture to the mercy of God. We remember the souls in Purgatory and all the faithful departed, asking the Lord to grant them eternal rest. May God bring comfort in impossible situations, strength to those who suffer, and healing to all who call upon Him. Amen. 🙏🏽

Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections | November 26th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com

( Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Siricius, Saint Sylvester, Saint Peter of Alexandria, Saint Leonard of Port Mauric and Saint John Berchmans | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-november-26th/)

SAINT SIRICIUS, POPE: Saint Siricius (334–399), a native of Rome, served the Church from his youth, first as lector, then deacon, before being elected the successor of Pope Damasus I in 384. He is remembered for his wisdom, piety, and zeal for upholding Church discipline during a turbulent time. In response to doctrinal confusion and pastoral questions, he issued the Directa Decretal—the earliest fully preserved papal decretal—addressing the sacraments, clerical conduct, church governance, and the reconciliation of penitents. Siricius vigorously defended the perpetual virginity of Mary against the errors of Jovinian and Bonosus, affirming authentic doctrine with clarity and compassion. He promoted clerical celibacy, strengthened ecclesiastical unity, and provided decisive leadership that influenced the development of canon law. His reign marked one of the earliest examples of the pope acting as a universal pastor whose teachings resonated beyond Rome.

PRAYER: Almighty God, through the intercession of Saint Siricius, grant wisdom, unity, and fidelity to the pastors of Your Church, that they may guide Your people along the path of salvation. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT SYLVESTER, ABBOT: Saint Sylvester (1177–1267), born into the noble Gozzolini family of Italy, was a learned canon renowned for his scholarship. Yet a profound spiritual awakening—sparked by seeing the decaying body of a once-handsome relative led him to embrace Christ’s call: “If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me.” At age fifty, he withdrew to a hermitage, seeking a life of prayer and penance. His holiness attracted disciples whom he formed under the Rule of Saint Benedict. These followers became the Sylvestrines, a reform movement distinguished by poverty, contemplation, and simplicity of life. Sylvester guided his monks with humility and deep spiritual insight until his peaceful death at age ninety. His legacy continues today through monasteries and missions rooted in the spirit of quiet holiness he embodied.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, through the example of Saint Sylvester, teach us to embrace simplicity, pursue holiness, and follow You with undivided hearts. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT PETER OF ALEXANDRIA, BISHOP AND MARTYR: Saint Peter of Alexandria (d. 311), known as the “Seal of the Martyrs,” served as head of the great Catechetical School of Alexandria before becoming bishop of the city. Renowned for scholarship, compassion, and moral clarity, he guided the Church through the violent persecutions of Diocletian. Peter devised a pastoral system of penance and reconciliation for Christians who had lapsed, seeking mercy without compromising justice. His firm yet charitable leadership provoked the extremist Melitian faction, which caused one of the earliest schisms in the Alexandrian Church. After years of exile during renewed persecution, he returned to Alexandria and was arrested almost immediately. He was beheaded on November 25, 311, becoming the last Christian executed under the Roman persecutions. Eusebius praised him as “a model of charity and zeal, merciful to sinners and severe to himself.”

PRAYER: O Lord, through the courageous witness of Saint Peter of Alexandria, strengthen us to defend truth with love and persevere in faith even in times of trial. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT LEONARD OF PORT MAURICE, PRIEST: Saint Leonard of Port Maurice (1676–1751), a Franciscan priest, is one of the greatest missionaries in Church history. Previously destined for a medical career, he answered God’s call to religious life, only to suffer life-threatening illness soon after ordination. He vowed that if he recovered, he would dedicate his life entirely to preaching missions. God granted his recovery, and Leonard spent more than forty years traversing Italy, preaching parish missions, Lenten retreats, and spiritual renewals that transformed countless souls. His sermons were powerful, compassionate, and rooted in profound love for the Holy Name of Jesus. He tirelessly promoted the Stations of the Cross, establishing them in over 500 churches. Seeking solitude with God, he also helped establish houses of recollection for priests and religious. Canonized in 1867, he is honored as the patron of parish mission preachers.

PRAYER: O God of mercy, through the intercession of Saint Leonard, enkindle in our hearts a deep love for Your Son and a renewed desire to bring others to You. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT JOHN BERCHMANS, RELIGIOUS: Saint John Berchmans (1599–1621) was a young Jesuit whose path to holiness was marked not by grand works but by perfect fidelity in ordinary duties. Born in Belgium, he exhibited early devotion, serving multiple Masses daily and practicing acts of penance even as a child. After his mother’s death, he cared lovingly for his siblings and later entered the Jesuit college, where his joy, kindness, and academic excellence made him a beloved figure. He joined the Society of Jesus and embraced its spirituality with exceptional enthusiasm, praying the Office of the Blessed Virgin daily and living by the motto: “My path to holiness is fidelity in little things.” He died at just twenty-two while studying in Rome, yet his holiness inspired miracles and widespread devotion. He is patron of altar servers, students, Jesuit novices, and young people.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, through the intercession of Saint John Berchmans, help us to find holiness in the small, hidden duties of daily life done with love. Amen. 🙏🏽

Our Blessed Mother Mary and Saint Siricius, Saint Sylvester, Saint Peter of Alexandria, Saint Leonard of Port Mauric and Saint John Berchmans ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽

GENERAL PRAYERS AND INTENTIONS | PRAYERS FOR PEACE | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/general-prayers-and-intentions/

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/

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/

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/

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 reflect on today’s readings, we lift our hearts to God, who remains faithful even in moments of trial and uncertainty. Inspired by the courage of the saints we honor today, Saint Siricius, Saint Sylvester, Saint Peter of Alexandria, Saint Leonard of Port Maurice, and Saint John Berchmans, we pray for the strength to stand firm in faith, just as Jesus teaches us in the Gospel. We remember all who face persecution, injustice, or difficult challenges, asking the Lord to give them endurance and peace. We pray for the sick, the poor, widows and widowers, those burdened by anxiety or despair, and for anyone living through circumstances that feel overwhelming or impossible. May those who lead the Church be guided with wisdom and integrity, like Saint Siricius; may those discerning their vocation be encouraged by the purity and dedication of Saint John Berchmans; and may all missionaries and preachers find zeal through the intercession of Saint Leonard. We entrust the souls in Purgatory, the dying, and all the faithful departed to God’s mercy, praying that He grant them eternal rest. Through the witness of these holy men, may we learn to trust God’s timing, remain steadfast in trials, and embrace each day with renewed courage. Amen. 🙏🏽

LET US PRAY:

My persecuted Lord, though You were perfect in every way, You endured much cruelty in Your earthly life. The injustice You endured is beyond our comprehension. But Your response to such persecution was perfect. You were able to transform all ill-treatment into grace and mercy, offered especially for those who mistreated You. Give me the grace I need to imitate Your perfect response and to always rely upon Your wisdom and guidance alone. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽

Lord our God, in the example of today’s Saints You reveal courage, perseverance, and unwavering love for the truth. Strengthen us with the grace to remain faithful in every circumstance, trusting that You are with us when we are tested and that Your light shines even in moments of darkness. Through the intercession of Saint Siricius, Saint Sylvester, Saint Peter of Alexandria, Saint Leonard of Port Maurice, and Saint John Berchmans, grant us endurance in trials, wisdom in decisions, and purity of heart in all we do. May Your Spirit guide our steps, protect us from every evil, and lead us into deeper communion with You each day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Siricius, Saint Sylvester, Saint Peter of Alexandria, Saint Leonard of Port Mauric and Saint John Berchmans ~ 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 Wednesday 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 Wednesday, a fruitful week 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