WEDNESDAY OF THE TWELFTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: JUNE 25, 2025

MEMORIAL OF SAINT WILLIAM OF VERCELLI, ABBOT; SAINT PROSPER OF REGGIO, BISHOP AND SAINT DOMINIC HENARES, PRIEST AND SAINT PROSPER OF AQUITAINE, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

(Direct link to the detailed Saint William, Saint Prosper, Saint Dominic Henares, and Saint Prosper| https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-june-25th/ )

DAY EIGHT: NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS | Novena dates: June 18–26, 2025. The Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart is June 27, 2025 | Novena links and prayers below | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/novena-to-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus/

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | June 25, 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-112/

Greetings and blessings, beloved family!

Today is Wednesday of the Twelfth week in Ordinary Time.

On this special feast day, we pray for all those who are marginalized in our society, the poor and the needy. We pray for justice, peace and love in our world today. We continue to pray for all families and for the safety and well-being of our children and children all over the world. We 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. May God protect us all and keep united in peace, love and faith… Amen 🙏🏽

We thank God for the gift of life and, we lift up in prayer all who celebrate their birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and all those marking special milestones in June. May the Lord bless and favor them abundantly, guide their steps, and grant them joy, peace, and good health of body and mind. Amen 🙏🏽

Through the intercession of St. Joseph, we pray for all fathers, workers and all those who labour 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 the Ordinary Time. Wishing us all and our loved ones a joyful, peaceful, and grace-filled month of June🙏🏽

AN EFFICACIOUS NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS

DAY EIGHT

Attributed to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque

Saint Padre Pio recited this novena every day for all those who requested his prayers.

This novena can be prayed any time of year or, as did Padre Pio, perpetually throughout the year. However, it is traditionally prayed for nine days prior to the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart.

Pray all prayers below every day during the novena

+++

Prayer One:
O my Jesus, you have said:
“Truly I say to you, ask and you will receive, seek and you will find, knock and it will be opened to you.” Behold I knock, I seek and ask for the grace of… (name your request here)
Our Father…; Hail Mary…; Glory Be to the Father…
Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you. Amen 🙏🏽

Prayer Two:
O my Jesus, you have said:
“Truly I say to you, if you ask anything of the Father in my name, he will give it to you.” Behold, in your name, I ask the Father for the grace of… (name your request here)
Our Father…; Hail Mary…; Glory Be To the Father…
Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you. Amen 🙏🏽

Prayer Three:
O my Jesus, you have said:
“Truly I say to you, heaven and earth will pass away but my words will not pass away.” Encouraged by your infallible words I now ask for the grace of… (name your request here)
Our Father…; Hail Mary…; Glory Be to the Father…
Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you. Amen 🙏🏽

Concluding Prayer:
O Sacred Heart of Jesus, for whom it is impossible not to have compassion on the afflicted, have pity on us miserable sinners and grant us the grace which we ask of you, through the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, your tender Mother and ours.

The Hail Holy Queen (The Salve Regina)

Hail, holy Queen, mother of mercy, our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To you we cry, poor banished children of Eve; to you we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn, then, most gracious advocate, your eyes of mercy toward us; and after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of your womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary. Pray for us O most holy Mother of God, That we may be worthy of the promises of Christ.

St. Joseph, foster father of Jesus, pray for us. Amen 🙏🏽

Optional Litany to the Sacred Heart

By St. Margaret Mary Alacoque

Hail, Heart of Jesus, save me!
Hail, Heart of my Creator, perfect me!
Hail, Heart of my Savior, deliver me!
Hail, Heart of my Judge, grant me pardon!
Hail, Heart of my Father, govern me!
Hail, Heart of my Spouse, grant me love!
Hail, Heart of my Master, teach me!
Hail, Heart of my King, be my crown!
Hail, Heart of my Benefactor, enrich me!
Hail, Heart of my Shepherd, guard me!
Hail, Heart of my Friend, comfort me!
Hail, Heart of my Brother, stay with me!
Hail, Heart of the Child Jesus, draw me to yourself!
Hail, Heart of Jesus dying on the Cross, redeem me!
Hail, Heart of Jesus in all your states, give yourself to me!
Hail, Heart of incomparable goodness, have mercy on me!
Hail, Heart of splendor, shine within me!
Hail, most loving Heart, inflame me!
Hail, most merciful Heart, work within me!
Hail, most humble Heart, dwell within me!
Hail, most patient Heart, support me!
Hail, most faithful Heart, be my reward!
Hail, most admirable and most worthy Heart, bless me!
Lord Jesus,
let my heart never rest until it finds You,
who are its center, its love, and its happiness.
By the wound in Your heart,
pardon the sins that I have committed
whether out of malice or out of evil desires.
Place my weak heart in Your own divine Heart, continually under Your protection and guidance, so that I may persevere in doing good and in fleeing evil until my last breath. Amen 🙏🏽

Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/novena-to-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus/

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

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

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

Today’s Bible Readings: Wednesday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time | Wednesday, June 25, 2025
Reading 1: Genesis 15:1–12, 17–18
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 105:1–2, 3–4, 6–7, 8–9
Gospel: Matthew 7:15–20

Gospel Reading ~ Matthew 7:15–20

“By their fruits you will know them”

“Jesus said to His disciples: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but underneath are ravenous wolves. By their fruits you will know them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Just so, every good tree bears good fruit, and a rotten tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a rotten tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. So by their fruits you will know them.”

In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus gives us a simple but powerful way to discern truth from deception: look at the fruit. Not the outward appearance, not the persuasive words, not the impressive credentials but the fruit. In a world where countless voices claim authority and truth, Jesus warns His disciples and us not to be easily swayed by appearances. False prophets may come disguised as gentle guides, but their actions, motivations, and impact will eventually reveal their true nature.

The “fruit” that Jesus speaks of refers to the visible results of a person’s life, do they promote peace, humility, love, justice, and truth? Or do their actions sow division, pride, and harm? Jesus doesn’t just warn us to avoid false prophets He calls us to become fruitful trees ourselves, rooted in Him. The invitation is to let God transform our hearts so that our lives naturally bear the fruits of the Spirit. If our roots are deep in prayer, truth, and love, we will not only avoid being deceived, we will also become a sign of God’s presence in the world.

Reflecting on the first reading, in Genesis 15, God enters into a Sacred covenant with Abram, a covenant that would forever define the destiny of God’s people. Abram expresses deep vulnerability, wondering how God’s promises will come true when he has no child. God responds not only with a promise but with a vision, a sky full of stars and reassures Abram that his descendants will be just as numerous. Despite the uncertainty and his advanced age, Abram believed, and that faith was “credited to him as righteousness.” This moment is foundational not just for the Jewish people, but for all of us who walk by faith. God does not rebuke Abram for asking questions; instead, He deepens the covenant. This passage invites us to come to God with our doubts, our fears, and our unanswered questions. Like Abram, we may not understand the timeline or the process, but we are called to trust in the One who holds the future.

Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, “The Lord remembers his covenant forever.” The Psalm today reminds us that God’s faithfulness is unshakable. Even when generations pass and circumstances shift, God’s promises endure. We are invited to sing of His deeds, to rejoice in seeking Him, and to remember that our strength comes not from ourselves but from the Lord who is ever faithful. When life feels uncertain or when we find ourselves waiting like Abram we can find comfort in knowing that God’s covenant love spans beyond our lifetime, binding us to Him across the ages.

Reflecting on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we are called to ponder on the Scriptures. Have I been discerning about the spiritual influences I allow into my life? Do I judge by appearances, or do I evaluate people and ideas by the fruit they bear? Like Abram, am I able to trust God even when the promise seems delayed? When I feel uncertain, do I bring my questions to God in prayer or do I allow doubt to distance me from Him? Is my life bearing good fruit that draws others closer to Christ? Today’s Word reminds us that God is both promise-maker and promise-keeper. Like Abram, we are called to believe, even when the stars feel out of reach. And like trees in God’s garden, we are invited to grow in virtue, bearing fruit that blesses others. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace and may we be vigilant against falsehood, faithful in trust, and fruitful in love so that when others look at our lives, they will see not just us, but Christ living in us.

Lord Jesus, plant me like a tree beside living waters, rooted in Your Word and nourished by Your grace. Protect me from deception and give me wisdom to discern what is true. Like Abram, help me to trust in Your promises even when I don’t see the outcome yet. May my life bear good fruit—love, patience, humility, and truth that brings You glory. Keep my heart faithful and my steps steady, so that I may always walk in Your covenant light. Amen🙏🏽

MEMORIAL OF SAINT WILLIAM OF VERCELLI, ABBOT; SAINT PROSPER OF REGGIO, BISHOP AND SAINT DOMINIC HENARES, PRIEST AND SAINT PROSPER OF AQUITAINE, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH ~ FEAST DAY: JUNE 25TH: Today, the Church honors four extraordinary saints who exemplified courage, faith, and charity in their respective vocations: Saint William of Vercelli, Abbot (Patron of Irpinia, Italy), Saint Prosper of Reggio, Bishop (Patron of Reggio Emilia and the Poor), Saint Dominic Henares, Priest and Martyr, and Saint Prosper of Aquitaine, Lay Theologian and Defender of Orthodoxy. Each of these holy men bore witness to Christ in radically different times and places, yet shared the same burning love for God and neighbor. Through their heavenly intercession and under the maternal mantle of Our Blessed Mother Mary, we lift up our prayers for the sick and terminally ill especially those battling cancer and chronic pain. We remember persecuted Christians around the world, those suffering under unjust governments or religious violence. We pray for bishops, priests, religious, and seminarians, asking the Lord to fill them with courage, wisdom, and holiness. May these saints inspire us to remain faithful, generous, and joyful in our own daily crosses. Amen. 🙏🏽

Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | June 25th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

( Direct link to the detailed history of Saint William, Saint Prosper, Saint Dominic Henares, and Saint Prosper | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-june-25th/ )

SAINT WILLIAM OF VERCELLI, ABBOT: Saint William of Vercelli (1085–1142), also known as William of Montevergine, was born into a noble Italian family and orphaned early in life. At just fifteen, he chose the path of radical penance and pilgrimage, walking to Santiago de Compostela in Spain with an iron ring around his waist as a sign of mortification. He later intended to travel to Jerusalem, but after being robbed and beaten by bandits in southern Italy, he discerned a divine call to embrace the solitary life of a hermit. Settling atop Monte Vergiliana (later renamed Montevergine), William devoted himself to rigorous prayer and fasting. His holiness soon attracted disciples, and in 1119, he founded the Congregation of Montevergine, a monastic community dedicated to Our Lady. Though his solitude was disrupted by growing fame, his obedience to God led him to found several monasteries across Naples. Even kings sought his counsel, and his presence influenced the virtue of rulers and the renewal of the Church. He died on June 25, 1142, having lived a life steeped in prayer, sacrifice, and spiritual fatherhood.

PRAYER: O God, who called Saint William of Vercelli to a life of prayer, penance, and monastic renewal, grant that by his example, we may seek what is above and walk steadfastly in the light of Your will. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT PROSPER OF REGGIO, BISHOP: Saint Prosper of Reggio (d. 466) served as bishop of Reggio Emilia in Italy for 22 years. Though little is known of his early life, tradition holds that he gave away all his possessions to follow Christ’s command to the rich young man: “Sell all you own… then come, follow Me.” He was revered for his humility, charity, and refusal to seek honors. Even in death, he requested to be buried in a small church outside the city walls rather than in the cathedral, as a final act of humility. His generosity to the poor and his wise, pastoral leadership left a lasting mark on the city. In 703, his relics were translated to a grand new church built in his honor, and he remains the patron saint of Reggio Emilia to this day a gentle shepherd whose heart reflected Christ the Good Shepherd.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, through the life and witness of Saint Prosper of Reggio, You have shown us the path of true charity and humility. May we follow his example by living with simplicity and serving with love. Grant us the grace to persevere in faith, that we too may one day share in his heavenly reward. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT DOMINIC HENARES, PRIEST: Born in 1764 to a humble Spanish family, Saint Dominic Henares joined the Dominican Order and was ordained a priest in 1790. He later became a missionary to the Far East, serving first in the Philippines and then in Vietnam, where he was appointed Bishop of Phunhay. His ministry blossomed in secret, hidden from the watchful eyes of hostile authorities. In 1831, Catholicism was officially outlawed in Vietnam, and a wave of brutal persecution followed. Bishop Henares was arrested and, after enduring suffering for Christ, was beheaded on June 25, 1838. His martyrdom is one among the hundreds of thousands who gave their lives for the Faith in Vietnam over centuries. He was canonized in 1988 by Pope Saint John Paul II, alongside 116 other Vietnamese martyrs.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus Christ, through the faithful witness of Saint Dominic Henares, You revealed the strength of Your grace amid persecution. Give us courage to stand firm in our faith, even when threatened by hardship. May we never take religious freedom for granted but live as true disciples in love and boldness. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT PROSPER OF AQUITAINE, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH: Saint Prosper of Aquitaine (c. 390–455) was a brilliant lay theologian and a devoted disciple of Saint Augustine. As a scholar and apologist, he vigorously defended the Church’s teaching on grace and predestination, writing extensively against the semi-Pelagian heresy. Despite not being a cleric, his insight and holiness earned him the admiration of many. He later served as secretary to Pope Saint Leo the Great, playing a critical role in shaping the Church’s teaching during a time of doctrinal confusion. Through his writings and service, Saint Prosper helped articulate the truth that salvation is a gift of divine grace, not merely human effort. His life reminds us that laypeople have a vital role in the Church’s intellectual and spiritual mission. His Chronicle remains one of the early Church’s historical treasures.

PRAYER: O God of Truth, You gifted Saint Prosper of Aquitaine with wisdom and love for Your Church. Through his example, may we grow in knowledge of the Faith and speak the truth with humility and charity. May his prayers guide all theologians, catechists, and seekers of truth. Amen. 🙏🏽

Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint William, Saint Prosper, Saint Dominic Henares, and Saint Prosper ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽

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

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 JUNE: That the world might grow in compassion. Let us pray that each one of us might find consolation in a personal relationship with Jesus, and from his Heart, learn to have compassion on the world.

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

DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF JUNE | MONTH OF THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS: June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a powerful sign of Christ’s love and mercy. His Heart, pierced and crowned with thorns, burns with compassion for all humanity. This devotion calls us to return love for love to console His Heart and make reparation for sin and indifference. Rooted in the revelations to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, the Church invites us this month to deepen our trust in Jesus, especially through First Friday devotions, the Litany of the Sacred Heart, and acts of consecration. His words echo in our hearts: “Learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of heart” (Matthew 11:29).

The Sacred Heart shows us what true love looks like patient, humble, and self-giving. In a world often cold and restless, we find peace and healing in His Heart.

“Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in You”

O Sacred Heart of Jesus, teach us to love as You love. Fill our hearts with compassion, mercy, and a deep desire to follow You. Amen 🙏🏽

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12540

PRAYER INTENTIONS: On this Wednesday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time, as we reflect on the covenantal faithfulness of God to Abram and Christ’s call to discern the fruits of our lives, we lift our hearts in prayer for the world, the Church, and all in need. We pray for a spirit of deep trust in God’s promises, even when the future seems unclear. May our hearts, like Abram’s, be strengthened in faith and righteousness. We pray for the grace to bear good fruit in our words, actions, and relationships, discerning truth from falsehood and love from self-interest. Through the intercession of Saint William of Vercelli, may all who seek God in solitude and suffering find peace and renewal. Through Saint Prosper of Reggio, we pray for bishops and shepherds in the Church, that they may lead with humility and charity. Through the witness of Saint Dominic Henares, we pray for all who face persecution for their faith, especially in regions of violence and oppression. And through Saint Prosper of Aquitaine, we pray for theologians, catechists, and all who defend the truth with clarity and compassion. May the witness of these saints encourage us to live with deeper holiness, courage, and hope.

LET US PRAY

My Lord of all truthfulness, You and You alone define the good and evil in our world. Your truth reveals the good fruit that is born to nourish the growth of Your glorious Kingdom. Give me courage and clarity of mind and heart so that I may continually do all that You call me to do so as to bring the good fruit of the Kingdom to all in need. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽

God of Abraham, You are ever faithful to Your promises and rich in mercy to those who trust in You. As You called Abram to believe in the impossible, help us to walk by faith, not by sight. May Your Spirit guide us to live lives that bear good fruit, fruits of love, patience, humility, and truth. Protect Your Church from false prophets and lead us always in the path of righteousness. Strengthen those who suffer for Your name, and raise up saints among us who, like William, Dominic, and both Prosper saints, witness to Your grace through prayer, teaching, and sacrifice. Purify our intentions, renew our commitment to holiness, and help us to seek first Your Kingdom in all things. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint William, Saint Prosper, Saint Dominic Henares, and Saint Prosper ~ Pray for us🙏🏽

Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day, and as we now enter the gentle rhythm of 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. May this week be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ walks with us always. Alleluia! Have a blessed, safe, grace-filled and fruitful Wednesday and Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time🙏🏽

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 Missons 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