TUESDAY OF THE SEVENTEENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME | YEAR A | JULY 28, 2026

TUESDAY OF THE SEVENTEENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME | YEAR A | JULY 28, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/tuesday-of-the-seventeenth-week-in-ordinary-time-year-a-july-28-2026/

SAINTS OF THE DAY | JULY 28, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-july-28th/

MEMORIAL OF SAINT SAMSON, BISHOP OF DOL; SAINTS NAZARIUS AND CELSUS, MARTYRS; SAINT VICTOR I, POPE AND MARTYR, SAINT INNOCENT I, POPE AND BLESSED FR. STANLEY ROTHER, PRIEST AND MARTYR

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

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | July 28, 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-july-28-2026/

DAILY PRAYERS: St. Michael the Archangel Prayer; Angelus Prayer; and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy Prayer | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/st-michael-the-archangel-prayer-angelus-prayer-and-the-chaplet-of-divine-mercy-prayer-2/

THE HOLY ROSARY: WHAT IS THE HOLY ROSARY AND WHY DO WE PRAY THE HOLY ROSARY? | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/the-holy-rosary-what-is-the-holy-rosary-and-why-do-we-pray-the-holy-rosary/

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Greetings and blessings, beloved family!

Today, the Church celebrates the Tuesday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time, together with the Memorial of Saint Samson of Dol, Saints Nazarius and Celsus, Pope Saint Victor I, Pope Saint Innocent I, and Blessed Fr. Stanley Rother. Today’s liturgy calls us to live as good seed in the world, reminding us that God exercises patient mercy before the final harvest while inviting us to repent and shine like the sun in His Kingdom. This steadfast fidelity is clearly seen in today’s saints, in Saint Samson’s missionary zeal across Brittany; in the courage of Saints Nazarius and Celsus; in Popes Victor I and Innocent I, who defended truth and unified the Church in turbulent times; and in Blessed Stanley Rother, the first U.S.-born martyr who refused to abandon his flock in Guatemala. May we cling to God’s covenant today and allow His grace to produce a fruitful harvest in our lives.

BIBLE READINGS FOR TODAY’S HOLY MASS:

Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading

Today’s Bible Readings for Tuesday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time | July 28, 2026
Reading 1: Jeremiah 14:17-22
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 79:8, 9, 11 and 13
Gospel: Matthew 13:36-43

Gospel Reading ~ Matthew 13:36-43

“The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his Kingdom all who cause others to sin and all evildoers… Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the Kingdom of their Father.”

“Jesus dismissed the crowds and went into the house. His disciples approached him and said, ‘Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field.’ He said in reply, ‘He who sows good seed is the Son of Man, the field is the world, the good seed the children of the Kingdom. The weeds are the children of the Evil One, and the enemy who sows them is the Devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. Just as weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his Kingdom all who cause others to sin and all evildoers. They will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the Kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears ought to hear.'”

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS

In today’s Gospel, Jesus explains the Parable of the Weeds to His disciples in private, laying out the spiritual reality of our world. Christ is the Sower, planting us as good seed to bear fruit for the Kingdom, while the Devil active in the dark attempts to choke out that good work. Rather than tearing out the weeds prematurely, God shows profound patience, giving space for growth and repentance. Yet, Jesus leaves no doubt about the final outcome: at the end of the age, justice will prevail, evil will be cast out, and the righteous will shine like the sun in the Father’s Kingdom.

In the First Reading, the prophet Jeremiah gives voice to deep sorrow over a nation suffering from its own infidelity. Looking at the widespread destruction around him, Jeremiah humbly confesses the people’s sins and appeals directly to God’s mercy, praying: “Remember your covenant with us, and break it not.”

The Responsorial Psalm echoes this passionate cry for deliverance, begging God to pardon past iniquities for the glory of His name. Together, these readings remind us that even when we feel low or surrounded by trials, turning back to God with a contrite heart always opens the door to His compassion.

Today’s scriptures challenge us to look at our own hearts. Are we living as good seed, shining God’s light, showing patience toward others, and trusting in His mercy during times of trial? Let us turn to the Lord today with honest repentance, confident that He preserves His faithful ones and will bring all things to a glorious harvest.

Lord God, You are faithful to Your covenant even when we fall short. Forgive our sins and help us to live as true children of Your Kingdom. Give us patience in times of trial, steady faith when evil seems to surround us, and a heart that shines with Your love until You gather us into Your eternal peace. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINTS OF THE DAY | JULY 28TH:

Link to Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections | July 28th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com

Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Samson, Saints Nazarius and Celsus, Pope Saint Victor I, Pope Saint Innocent I and Blessed Stanley Rother| https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-july-28th/

SAINT SAMSON OF DOL (C. 490–565): Born in Wales and raised in a monastic tradition, Samson embraced a life of intense prayer, fasting, and mission. He preached across Wales, Ireland, Cornwall, and Brittany, where he eventually founded the monastery and diocese of Dol. Known for his humility, healing miracles, and deep charity, Saint Samson is revered as one of the seven founding saints of Brittany. He reminds us that even quiet, consistent service in God’s name leaves a legacy of transformation.

PRAYER: God of all nations, through Saint Samson’s bold witness and missionary heart, You brought light to many lands. May we, too, spread Your love in every place You send us. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINTS NAZARIUS AND CELSUS, MARTYRS (1st Century): Nazarius, baptized by Pope Linus, and young Celsus, whom he catechized, journeyed together preaching the Gospel. They endured persecution, torture, and were eventually martyred in Milan. Their relics, discovered by Saint Ambrose, were accompanied by miraculous signs, a testament to their sanctity. These martyrs show us that age does not define courage only love for Christ does.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, who strengthened Nazarius and Celsus to preach and suffer together, inspire us with their fearless love and youthful faith. Amen. 🙏🏾

POPE SAINT VICTOR I (D. 199): As the first African pope, Victor led the Church with authority and clarity. He defended orthodoxy, helped prisoners of persecution, and unified Easter celebration practices across the Christian world. His leadership came at a time of growing heresies and external pressure, yet he held fast to truth.

PRAYER: Almighty Father, who guided Pope Victor to uphold unity and truth, grant our leaders wisdom and courage to shepherd Your Church with love and integrity. Amen. 🙏🏾

POPE SAINT INNOCENT I (378–417): A contemporary of St. Jerome and St. Augustine, Pope Innocent defended the primacy of the Holy See and stood firmly against Pelagianism. During the sack of Rome, he remained a spiritual anchor for the faithful. His correspondence shows pastoral wisdom and unwavering commitment to apostolic doctrine.

PRAYER: Lord, who entrusted Pope Innocent with the care of Your Church in turbulent times, grant that we may always remain rooted in sound teaching and faithful to the Gospel. Amen🙏🏾

BLESSED FR. STANLEY ROTHER, PRIEST AND MARTYR (1935–1981): An American diocesan priest from Oklahoma, Father Stanley served as a missionary in Santiago Atitlán, Guatemala. He deeply loved the indigenous Tz’utujil people, translating the New Testament into their language and supporting their daily needs. When civil unrest made his ministry life-threatening, he refused to abandon his flock, declaring that “the shepherd cannot run at the first sign of danger.” He was martyred in his rectory on July 28, 1981, becoming the first U.S.-born priest to be beatified.

PRAYER: Blessed Stanley Rother, brave shepherd and humble servant of God, pray for all missionaries and priests working in danger. May we imitate your unwavering love and trust in Christ. Amen. 🙏🏽

HONORING THE SAINTS OF THE DAY:
Alongside Saint Samson, Saints Nazarius and Celsus, Pope Saint Victor I, Pope Saint Innocent I, and Blessed Stanley Rother, we also honor: SAINT ALPHONSA OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, BLESSED ANTHONY DELLA CHIESA, SAINT ARDUINUS, SAINT BOTUID, SAINT CAMELIAN, SAINT EUSTACE, BLESSED JAIME HILARIO, SAINT LUCIDIUS, SAINT LYUTIS, AND SAINT PEREGRINUS. May their faithful lives inspire our own journey today.

Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Samson, Saints Nazarius and Celsus, Pope Saint Victor I, Pope Saint Innocent I, Blessed Stanley Rother, and all the Saints we celebrate today ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽

PRAYER INTENTION: PATIENT ENDURANCE, MISSIONARIES, AND HOLY LEADERSHIP

Heavenly Father, You are the faithful Sower who plants us as children of Your Kingdom and calls us to shine with Your love. As we face the daily mixture of good and evil around us, grant us patient faith, contrite hearts, and the grace to remain rooted in Your truth. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Samson, Saints Nazarius and Celsus, Pope Saint Victor I, Pope Saint Innocent I, and Blessed Fr. Stanley Rother (Patron of missionaries and priests), we place our prayers before You. We pray for all missionaries, priests, and healthcare workers serving in dangerous or challenging places; for the sick and dying, especially those suffering from cancer and terminal illnesses, begging for Your healing and comfort; and for families seeking peace, unity, and provision. Protect Your Church, grant wisdom to our leaders, shield persecuted Christians, and bring conversion to all hearts. May we serve You with courage and shine as lights of Your Kingdom today. Amen. 🙏🏽

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

THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2026: FOR THE MONTH OF JULY: For respect for human life. Let us pray for the respect and protection of human life in all its stages, recognizing it as a gift from God.

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

DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF JULY | MONTH OF THE MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD OF JESUS: July is dedicated to the Most Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ a profound devotion that honors the redeeming power of Christ’s Blood shed for our salvation. Flowing from His Sacred Heart, this Blood is the price of our redemption, the source of grace in the sacraments, and the seal of the New Covenant. It reminds us that salvation was not won lightly, but through the ultimate sacrifice of love. This month, the Church invites us to meditate on the infinite value of Christ’s Blood poured out during His Passion from Gethsemane to Calvary and in every celebration of the Holy Eucharist. We are called to offer acts of reparation for the sins of the world and to intercede for the conversion of souls. Devotions such as the Litany of the Precious Blood, the Chaplet of the Precious Blood, and daily consecration to the Precious Blood help deepen our union with Christ crucified.

As Saint John Chrysostom once said, “The Precious Blood is the salvation of souls; it purifies, sanctifies, and strengthens.” In our trials, let us take refuge beneath the cross, trusting in the Blood that speaks of mercy, victory, and eternal life.

“Precious Blood of Jesus, save us and the whole world.”

O Most Precious Blood of Jesus, fountain of salvation, we adore You. Wash us clean of sin, protect us from evil, and draw us into deeper love and union with You. Amen. 🙏🏽

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/month.cfm?y=2026&m=6

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 glorious day, we offer Him a prayer of gratitude for the graces of the past months and entrust this month of July to His loving providence. We pray for God’s grace and mercy as we anchor ourselves in the steady, life-giving rhythm of Ordinary Time. May the profound mysteries of the Cross, the cleansing power of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus, and the enduring fire of the Holy Spirit continue to help us seek You in every moment of our lives. May the peace, hope, and divine communion that flow from the Heart of our Redeemer shape our steps, inform our decisions, and strengthen our resolve to live each day in the light of Christ and the daily guidance of the Advocate. As we journey onward through the rest of this 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 the joy of the Gospel, the gifts of the Spirit, and generosity to the poor. May God keep us all safe and well during these challenging times. Wishing us all a spiritually enriching, most blessed, and grace-filled journey ahead. Amen. 🙏🏽

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Samson, Saints Nazarius and Celsus, Pope Saint Victor I, Pope Saint Innocent I, Blessed Stanley Rother, and all the Saints we celebrate today ~ 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/

Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation | https://gliopiepehe.org/

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