MEMORIAL OF SAINT TURIBIUS OF MOGROVEJO, BISHOP; SAINT REBECCA (SAINT RAFQA /RAFKA), RELIGIOUS; AND SAINT VICTORIAN AND COMPANIONS, MARTYRS: FEAST DAY ~ MARCH 23RD

MONDAY OF THE FIFTH WEEK OF LENT | YEAR A

SAINTS OF THE DAY | MARCH 23, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-march-23rd/

MEMORIAL OF SAINT TURIBIUS OF MOGROVEJO, BISHOP; SAINT REBECCA (SAINT RAFQA /RAFKA), RELIGIOUS; AND SAINT VICTORIAN AND COMPANIONS, MARTYRS

History of the Saints | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | March 23, 2026 | “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-march-23-2026/

LENTEN CALENDAR AND REFLECTIONS: https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/lenten-prayers-and-reflection-2026/

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Greetings and blessings, beloved family!

As we begin the Fifth Week of Lent, the liturgy draws us into a profound reflection on judgment, innocence, and the transformative power of mercy. This week, we move from the garden of Babylon, where the virtuous Susanna faced a “dark valley” of false accusations, to the Temple area in Jerusalem, where a woman caught in adultery stood before the only sinless Judge. In both accounts, we see that while human “elders” may grow evil with age or use the Law as a weapon of lust and pride, God stirs up the spirit of the wise to protect the vulnerable. We are accompanied today by a trio of diverse witnesses: Saint Turibius of Mogrovejo, the lawyer-turned-bishop who defended the rights of the indigenous; Saint Rebecca (Rafqa), who found restful waters even in the depths of blindness and paralysis; and Saint Victorian, who refused to testify falsely even when threatened by a king. Like the woman in the Gospel, we are invited today to drop our stones and stand alone with the Shepherd who does not condemn us, but instead anoints our heads with the oil of a new beginning. Let us walk this week with a “clean slate,” hearing the Voice that tells us to “go and sin no more.” Amen. 🙏🏽

LENTEN REFLECTION

DAY 29: LENTEN PRAYERS AND REFLECTIONS 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/day-29-lenten-prayers-and-reflections-2026/

Day Twenty-Nine: Love That Sees
(Monday, Fifth Week of Lent)

Scripture Passage:
“Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for it me.” (Matthew 25:40)

We have entered the final stretch of our journey.
We have seen that true glory is found in sacrifice.
We are now called to let our transformed hearts move our hands.

Today Lent invites us to recognize Christ in the faces of those we often overlook.

Meditative Reflection

Transformation is never meant to stay hidden inside us. If our hearts are truly being made new, our vision must change too. Throughout this Lenten journey, we have focused on our relationship with God and our internal struggles. But today, the Gospel pulls our gaze outward. Jesus gives us a radical truth: He is not just in the Tabernacle or in our prayers; He is physically present in the hungry, the lonely, the misunderstood, and the difficult people in our lives. This is where the “Transformation of the Heart” meets the “Reality of the Cross.” It is easy to love a God we cannot see, but it is much harder to love the person right in front of us who test our patience or requires our sacrifice. As Mother Teresa often said, love “has to hurt” to be real. This doesn’t mean love should be painful, but that it should cost us something—our time, our comfort, or our pride. When we give until it “pinches” our convenience, we are finally breaking the shell of our ego. We are moving from a faith of words to a faith of presence. Today, we ask the Holy Spirit to sharpen our spiritual sight. May we not just remember the poor, but truly see Christ in them and respond with a heart that has been softened by these past four weeks of prayer.

Reflection Questions

Who is the “least” person in my life right now, the one I find hardest to serve or notice?
Does my faith lead me to take concrete action, or does it stay as a feeling in my heart?
When I encounter someone in need, do I see a “problem to be solved” or a “person to be loved”?

Lenten Question

Q: Why is “Almsgiving” (charity) considered a pillar of Lent alongside Prayer and Fasting?
A: Prayer connects us to God, Fasting detaches us from ourselves, and Almsgiving connects us to our neighbor. Without charity, our spiritual growth risks becoming selfish. Almsgiving is the proof that our fasting and prayer are actually working.

Lenten Action

Perform a concrete act of mercy that costs you something today. It could be a financial donation, but it could also be giving 15 minutes of undivided attention to someone who is lonely, or performing a task for a colleague/client that you usually avoid.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, open my eyes to see You in everyone I meet today. Do not let my transformation stay hidden in my thoughts, but let it overflow into my actions. Give me a heart that remembers Your mercy and a hand that is quick to serve. May my love be real, concrete, and selfless, reflecting the love You have shown me. Amen. 🙏🏽

BIBLE READINGS FOR TODAY’S HOLY MASS:

Fifth Week of Lent | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading

Today’s Bible Readings: Monday of the Fifth Week of Lent | March 23, 2026
Reading I: Daniel 13:1–9, 15–17, 19–30, 33–62
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23:1–3a, 3b–4, 5, 6
Gospel: John 8:1–11

Gospel Reading ~ John 8:1–11

“Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.”

Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. But early in the morning he arrived again in the temple area, and all the people started coming to him, and he sat down and taught them. Then the scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery and made her stand in the middle. They said to him, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery. Now in the law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?” They said this to test him, so that they could have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and began to write on the ground with his finger. But when they continued asking him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” Again he bent down and wrote on the ground. And in response, they went away one by one, beginning with the elders. So he was left alone with the woman before him. Then Jesus straightened up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She replied, “No one, sir.” Then Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on do not sin any more.”

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS

In the Gospel, we witness a masterclass in divine mercy. The Pharisees attempt to use the Law as a weapon, not only against the woman but to “test” Jesus. By writing on the ground, Jesus creates a space of silence that forces the accusers to look inward. His response, inviting the sinless to throw the first stone, shifts the focus from the woman’s visible sin to the hidden sins of the crowd. When the accusers drift away, we are left with what St. Augustine famously called Misera et Misericordia (Misery and Mercy) standing face to face. Jesus does not excuse the sin, but He refuses to let the sin define the person. He offers her a clean slate, proving that His mission is not to condemn the world, but to save it.

This act of mercy echoes the rescue of Susanna in the First Reading. Like the woman in the Gospel, Susanna was “completely trapped” by the power of elders who had “suppressed their consciences.” While the woman in the temple was guilty of the act, Susanna was innocent, yet both faced the same penalty: death by stoning. God “stirred up the holy spirit” of the young boy Daniel to expose the perjury of the wicked judges, sparing innocent blood. Together, these readings show that whether we are innocent like Susanna or guilty like the adulteress, our only true refuge is in the Lord who “knows what is hidden” and “saves those who hope in Him.”

The Responsorial Psalm, Psalm 23, provides the interior soundtrack for both women. “Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side.” For Susanna, the “dark valley” was the false accusation; for the woman in the Gospel, it was the circle of stones. In both cases, the Lord acted as the Shepherd who leads His sheep to “restful waters” and “refreshes the soul.” This Psalm reminds us that even when we are surrounded by “foes,” the Lord spreads a table of grace before us, anointing our heads with the oil of mercy.

As we move deeper into this fifth week, we are challenged to look at the stones we might be holding in our own hands, grudges, judgments, or the desire to see others fail. Jesus invites us to drop those stones and recognize our own need for the Shepherd. The dark valley of our Lenten journey is nearly at its end, but the light of the Mount of Olives is already breaking through. Reflect today: Is there someone you have been stoning with your words or thoughts? Can you accept the “neither do I condemn you” of Jesus for your own past, so that you can truly “go and sin no more”?

Let us pray: Lord Jesus, You are the Just Judge who prefers conversion to the death of the wicked. Give us the wisdom of Daniel to discern the truth and the humility of the woman in the temple to receive Your mercy. When we walk through the dark valleys of accusation or guilt, remind us that Your rod and staff give us courage. May we never be the first to throw a stone, but always the first to offer a hand in Your name. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINTS OF THE DAY | MARCH 23RD:

Link to Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections| March 23rd https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com

Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Turibius, Saint Rebecca, and Saint Victorian | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-march-23rd/

SAINT TURIBIUS OF MOGROVEJO, BISHOP: Saint Turibius of Mogrovejo (1538–1606) was born in Spain and initially served as a professor of law before being unexpectedly appointed Archbishop of Lima, Peru, despite being a layman at the time. Recognizing the hand of God in this mission, he accepted ordination and took on the task of shepherding a vast and often neglected flock in the New World. He was a tireless missionary, traveling thousands of miles on foot and horseback to preach the Gospel to indigenous communities, often learning their languages to better communicate with them.

Saint Turibius upheld the dignity and rights of the native people, fighting against colonial oppression and corruption within the Church. He established seminaries, reformed clergy conduct, and was known for his deep humility and love for the poor. Among those he confirmed was the future Saint Rose of Lima. His dedication to evangelization and justice makes him a model bishop and missionary. He died while on a pastoral visit in 1606 and was canonized in 1726.

PRAYER: O God, You sent Saint Turibius to shepherd Your people with wisdom and courage. May his zeal for justice and the salvation of souls inspire bishops, missionaries, and all Your faithful to serve with humility and love. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT REBECCA (SAINT RAFQA/RAFKA), RELIGIOUS: Saint Rebecca (1832–1914), also known as Saint Rafqa, was a Lebanese Maronite nun who embraced a life of suffering as a means of uniting herself to Christ. After joining the Lebanese Maronite Order, she asked Our Lord for the gift of sharing in His Passion. Soon after, she was struck with painful illnesses, becoming blind and paralyzed. Despite her immense suffering, she never complained but offered everything to God in silent joy, teaching others the redemptive power of suffering.

Saint Rebecca spent her final years in deep prayer, inspiring those around her with her serenity and unwavering faith. Her holiness and miracles led to her canonization in 2001. She remains a powerful intercessor for those suffering from chronic illnesses and pain.

PRAYER: O Lord, through the patient endurance of Saint Rebecca, You showed us the power of redemptive suffering. Grant us the strength to carry our crosses with faith and joy, trusting in Your divine will. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT VICTORIAN AND COMPANIONS, MARTYRS: Saint Victorian and his companions were Christian martyrs who perished under the brutal persecution of King Huneric of the Vandals in North Africa during the 5th century. Saint Victorian was a high-ranking Roman official who refused to betray his faith despite the threats and offers of wealth from the king. His steadfastness led to his execution, along with other believers who similarly chose Christ over earthly security.

Their martyrdom reminds us of the cost of discipleship and the eternal reward that awaits those who remain faithful to Christ. They are honored as defenders of the faith and intercessors for those facing persecution.

PRAYER: O God, You strengthened Saint Victorian and his companions to endure martyrdom rather than renounce their faith. Through their example, grant us courage in trials and unwavering trust in Your promises. Through Christ our Lord. Amen 🙏🏽

May the lives of these Holy Saints inspire us to walk in faith, bear suffering with courage, and stand firm in the truth of the Gospel. 🙏🏽

Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Turibius, Saint Rebecca, and Saint Victorian — pray for us. 🙏🏽

PRAYER INTENTION FOR THE DAY: FOR JUSTICE, THE SICK, AND THE PERSECUTED

Through the intercession of the saints of this day, let us entrust our cause to the Shepherd who guides us in right paths. Lord, we pray for all Bishops and missionaries, especially in Latin America; through the zeal of Saint Turibius, grant them a heart for the poor and the courage to fight for indigenous rights. We pray for the sick and those living with disabilities; through the patience of Saint Rebecca, may they find meaning in their suffering and be comforted by the “restful waters” of Your presence. We lift up all persecuted Christians and those in high-office; like Saint Victorian, may they never “testify falsely” or betray their conscience for worldly gain. For the woman caught in sin and for our own hidden iniquities, we ask for the grace of a “clean slate.” May we leave our stones behind and walk in the newness of life that You alone provide. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

PRAYER FOR PEACE | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/a-prayer-for-peace/

THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2026: FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH: For disarmament and peace. Let us pray that nations move toward effective disarmament, particularly nuclear disarmament, and that world leaders choose the path of dialogue and diplomacy instead of violence.

(https://popesprayerusa.net/popes-intentions/)

DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF MARCH: MONTH OF SAINT JOSEPH: The Church dedicates the month of March to Saint Joseph, the humble and faithful guardian of the Redeemer. Though he spoke no recorded words in Scripture, his life preached obedience, courage, responsibility, and silent strength. “His was the title of father of the Son of God, because he was the Spouse of Mary, ever Virgin. He was our Lord’s father, because Jesus yielded to him the obedience of a son. He was our Lord’s father, because to him were entrusted, and by him were faithfully fulfilled, the duties of a father: protecting Him, giving Him a home, sustaining and rearing Him, and providing Him with a trade.” Saint Joseph was entrusted with the greatest treasure Heaven could give Jesus and Mary and he fulfilled that mission with quiet fidelity. He protected the Holy Family in danger, labored diligently to provide for them, and trusted God even when he did not fully understand the divine plan. In this month, we are invited to imitate his virtues: deep trust in God, purity of heart, faithful service, and steadfast responsibility in our own vocations. Like Saint Joseph, may we learn to act with courage, listen in silence, and obey God promptly. May this Month of Saint Joseph strengthen fathers, guide families, protect workers, and inspire all of us to live hidden yet holy lives before God.

Saint Joseph, pray for us. 🙏🏽

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/month.cfm?y=2026&m=2

PRAYER FOR THE DEAD
We pray for the repose of the gentle souls of our loved ones and souls of all the faithful departed. 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 🙏🏽

Thanking God for His love and the gift of this day, we offer Him a prayer of gratitude and entrust the days ahead to His loving providence. We pray for God’s grace and mercy as we continue our spiritual journey. May this Lenten journey help us to seek You in the secret places of our hearts. May the peace, hope, and steady guidance that flow from walking daily with Christ shape our steps, inform our decisions, and strengthen our resolve to live each day in love and holiness. As we journey onward into this new month, may God bless our families and loved ones, and may His light continue to shine brightly in every home. Let us draw closer to God and be renewed through prayer, fasting, penance, and generosity to the poor. May God keep us all safe and well during these challenging times. Wishing us all a reflective, spiritually enriching, most blessed, and grace-filled Lenten Season. Amen 🙏🏽

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, ~ Pray for us 🙏🏾

Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you. Jesus, I trust in you! Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for us. Amen 🙏🏽

Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖

DEVOTIONAL RESOURCES

A Guide to Catholic Prayer & Faith Resources: Prayers, Devotions, Teachings,and the Liturgical Year | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-prayer-faith-resources/

Catholic Mission & Witness: Foundations, Media Features, Global Outreach and Podcast Interview | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-mission-witness-foundations-media-features-and-global-outreach/

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