Author: Resa

  • MEMORIAL OF SAINT JOHN I, POPE AND MARTYR, SAINT VENANTIUS OF CAMERINO, MARTYR AND SAINT FELIX OF CANTALICE, RELIGIOUS

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT JOHN I, POPE AND MARTYR, SAINT VENANTIUS OF CAMERINO, MARTYR AND SAINT FELIX OF CANTALICE, RELIGIOUS

    FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (YEAR C) | POPE LEO XIV’S INAUGURATION MASS

    SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: FEAST DAY ~ MAY 18, 2025

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT JOHN I, POPE AND MARTYR, SAINT VENANTIUS OF CAMERINO, MARTYR AND SAINT FELIX OF CANTALICE, RELIGIOUS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

    (Direct link to the detailed history of Saint John I, Saint Venantius, and Saint Felix of Cantalice | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-may-18th/)

    Watch “POPE LEO XIV’S INAUGURATION MASS | LIVE FROM THE VATICAN, ST. PETER’S SQUARE | MAY 18, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/pope-leo-xivs-inauguration-mass-live-from-the-vatican/

    Live from St. Peter’s Square for the historic Eucharistic Celebration for the Start of the Petrine Ministry of the Bishop of Rome, Pope Leo XIV. At the end of the Holy Mass, the Holy Father prayed the Regina Caeli prayer.

    Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | May 18, 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-75/

    Greetings and blessings, dear beloved family. Happy Sunday of Fifth Week of Easter!

    We thank God for the successful celebration of the Inauguration Holy Mass for Pope Leo XIV. May the Holy Spirit guide him as he shepherds the faithful, and may his pontificate be a source of renewal and unity for the Church. Amen 🙏🏽

    HABEMUS PAPAM! A PRAYER FOR OUR HOLY FATHER, POPE LEO XIV

    MEET THE NEW POPE: Pope Leo XIV | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/live-from-st-peters-square-white-smoke-habemus-papam/

    As the Papal Conclave to elect the next Roman Pontiff comes to an end, with profound reverence we give thanks to Almighty God for the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church. Taking the name Pope Leo XIV, he becomes the first American-born pontiff in the Church’s two-millennia history. The announcement was made on May 8, 2025, following the traditional white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the conclusion of the conclave.

    Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, an American and a member of the Order of St. Augustine is known as Pope Leo XIV. A missionary bishop and former Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, Pope Leo XIV has served the Church faithfully in Chiclayo, Peru, and brings with him a pastoral heart deeply shaped by the Gospel and the spirituality of St. Augustine.

    LET US PRAY:

    Almighty God, we thank You for the gift of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. Grant him wisdom, courage, and humility as he leads the Church in truth and love. May the Holy Spirit guide his every word and action, and may he be a bridge of unity for all nations. Through the intercession of Mary, Queen of Peace, strengthen him in his mission to proclaim Christ to the world. Amen 🙏🏽

    Heavenly Father, You have raised Your servant, Pope Leo XIV, to the Chair of Saint Peter. Pour out Your abundant blessings upon him. Through him, guide Your pilgrim Church along the path to Heaven. Grant him wisdom to discern Your will, Courage to fulfill it, And charity to shepherd Your people with the Heart of Christ. In this time of transition, Bring peace to troubled hearts, Joy to those who suffer, And hope to the despairing. May he be a faithful successor to Peter, A humble servant of Your Word, And a fearless herald of Your Divine Mercy and Truth. Strengthen him with the grace of the Holy Spirit, That he may lead the Church in unity, holiness, and fidelity. We entrust him to the maternal care of the Blessed Virgin Mary, And to the prayers of all the saints. Through Christ our Lord. Amen 🙏🏽

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

    May this new week be filled with peace, joy, and the renewed hope that comes from Christ’s Resurrection. 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 🙏🏽

    The entire month of May is dedicated to our beloved Mother Mary, the Mother of God. As we continue to rejoice in the victory of Christ’s Resurrection, we give heartfelt thanks to God for the gift of life and for bringing us safely into the month of May. May this Easter season renew our strength, deepen our faith, and fill our hearts with the peace of the Risen Lord. May our Mother Mary continue to intercede for us and may God’s grace and mercy be with us all during this season of Easter. Wishing us all and our loved ones a joyful, blessed start to the month. Amen 🙏🏽

    PRAYER FOR THE SOUL OF POPE FRANCIS: With the passing of Pope Francis, let us continue to pray for the eternal repose of his soul. Merciful and loving God, We entrust to You our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis. May he rest in the light of Your presence, where suffering and sorrow are no more, and every tear is wiped away. Comfort all who mourn his passing and raise up shepherds who will continue to guide Your Church in humility and love.

    Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May his gentle soul and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽

    Daily Reflections with Philomena | Prayer for the Soul of Pope Francis | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/precious-in-the-sight-of-the-lord-is-the-death-of-his-saints-psalm-11615/

    On this special feast day, as we continue to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, particularly Saint Joseph, Patron of the sick and dying, we pray for the sick and dying and all those who mourn the loss of their loved ones. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, especially for our Holy Father, POPE FRANCIS, all those who died today, and all the faithful departed may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their gentle souls and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯

    “Blessed are those who have died in the Lord; let them rest from their labors for their good deeds go with them.” ~ Rev 14:13

    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 🙏🏽

    Still rejoicing in the light of the Resurrection, the Church commemorates three great saints who witnessed to Christ in distinct yet powerful ways Saint John I (Patron of prisoners and diplomats), a Pope and martyr; Saint Venantius (Patron of Camerino, youth, and protection against earthquakes), a young and courageous martyr; and Saint Felix of Cantalice (Patron of beggars, the Capuchin Order, and children), a humble Capuchin friar and model of charity. Through their intercession, and under the maternal mantle of our Blessed Mother Mary, we offer prayers for the sick and the dying especially those suffering from terminal illnesses. We lift up the poor and the abandoned, beseeching the Lord’s mercy and protection over them. We pray for the Church and her clergy, for persecuted Christians around the world, for the conversion of sinners, and for the unity of all believers in Christ.

    DAILY REFLECTIONS WITH PHILOMENA | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

    Daily Saints, Holy Mass, Holy Rosary, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Scripture Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/reflections/

    Watch “HOLY MASS ON THE JUBILEE OF THE SICK AND HEALTHCARE WORKERS | Presided by H.E. Most Rev. Rino Fisichella | Live from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican | April 6, 2025” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/06/holy-mass-on-the-jubilee-of-the-sick-and-healthcare-workers/

    THE LITURGICAL YEAR IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/12/03/the-liturgical-year-in-the-catholic-church/

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

    Pray “Holy Rosary for Peace with Pope Francis” | “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song”| “Holy Rosary ALL 20 Mysteries | Memorare Chaplet | Prayer in Difficult Times (Powerful Prayer) | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/30/holy-rosary-for-peace-with-pope-francis/

    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/

    PRAYER FOR PEACE ~ POPE FRANCIS:

    Lord God of peace, hear our prayer!

    A PRAYER FOR PEACE : Lord Jesus Christ, You are the true King of peace. In You alone is found freedom. Please free our world from conflict. Bring unity to troubled nations. Let Your glorious peace reign in every heart. Dispel all darkness and evil. Protect the dignity of every human life. Replace hatred with Your love. Give wisdom to world leaders. Free them from selfish ambition. Eliminate all violence and war. Glorious Virgin Mary, Saint Michael the Archangel, Every Angel and Saint: Please pray for peace. Pray for unity amongst nations. Pray for unity amongst all people. Pray for the most vulnerable. Pray for those suffering. Pray for the fearful. Pray for those most in need. Pray for us all. Jesus, Son of the Living God, have mercy on us. Jesus, hear our prayers. Jesus, I trust in You! Amen 🙏🏽

    Prayers for Peace | https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/prayers-for-peace/

    SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

    Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Sunday of the Fifth Week of Easter (Year C) | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading

    Today’s Bible Readings: Fifth Sunday of Easter | May 18, 2025
    Reading 1: Acts 14:21–27
    Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 145:8–9, 10–11, 12–13
    Reading 2: Revelation 21:1–5a
    Gospel: John 13:31–33a, 34–35

    Gospel Reading ~ John 13:31–33a, 34–35

    “I give you a new commandment: Love one another as I have loved you”

    “When Judas had left them, Jesus said, “Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him. If God is glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself, and God will glorify him at once. My children, I will be with you only a little while longer. I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another. This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

    In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus speaks of His call to love one another as He has loved us as a new commandment. What is new about this commandment? The call to love our neighbour as ourselves was already present in the Jewish tradition and Jesus quotes that commandment in the Gospels with approval. What is new about the love commandment in today’s Gospel reading is the little phrase, ‘as I have loved you’. The word ‘love’ has come to mean many things. However, it is clear what it means to Jesus. According to John’s Gospel, He gave this new commandment to His disciples immediately after washing their feet. Even though He was their Lord, He got down on His knees and washed their feet as if He was their servant. Included among the feet He washed were the feet of Judas, whom He knew at the time was about to betray Him. By this action of humble, loving, service towards all His disciples, including one who had become His enemy, Jesus was showing us what He meant by love. Actions can speak louder than words. His laying down His garments to wash the feet of His disciples in love pointed ahead to His laying down His life on the following day out of love for the world. He would go on to say at this last supper, ‘No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends’, and He had chosen to befriend all of humanity, including those responsible for His death.

    Jesus gave Himself, emptied Himself, so that others would have life and have it to the full. This is the love Jesus refers to when he commands us to love one another as he has loved us. We are to give of ourselves in loving service to others so that they may live more fully human lives. He goes on to say, in the Gospel reading, ‘By this love you have for one another, everyone will know that you are my disciples’. Jesus is saying there that his true disciples are those who give expression to his love in their lives. This is how his disciples are to be identified and not in any other way. It is a sobering thought. We all fall short of this commandment of Jesus. Unlike Jesus, we are not God in human form, perfect love in human form. Jesus is well aware of our weaknesses, as he was aware of the weaknesses of the disciples whose feet he washed. Nevertheless, He calls us to love one another as he has loved us. Jesus’ call or commandment to love others presupposes the good news that he has loved and continues to love us. It is only in receiving, in opening ourselves up, to the Lord’s love for us that we can possibly go on to love others as he has loved us. The Lord stands before us today as our loving servant, just as He stood before His disciples as their loving servant at the last supper. If we can open our hearts to the gift of his love, the gift of His Holy Spirit of love, we will be empowered to give expression to His love in our relationship with others, even if only imperfectly.
    If Judas betrayed Jesus, Saint Paul persecuted Jesus by persecuting His followers. Yet, on the road to Damascus, he had an overpowering sense of the Lord’s gracious love for him. From that moment on, His life was given over to proclaiming, making present, what He refers to as the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord from which nothing can separate us. This is what we find St Paul, with St. Barnabas, doing in today’s first reading. They were putting ‘fresh heart into the disciples, encouraging them to persevere in the faith’. Whenever we put fresh heart into others, whenever we encourage and build up all that is good in them, we are loving others with the Lord’s love, because so much of His ministry was about putting fresh heart into others and building them up. If together we try to live in this loving way, then, in the words of the second reading, God will make his home among us, and something of the new, heavenly, Jerusalem, will begin to come into being on earth.

    Reflecting further on the Gospel reading, as Jesus prepares for His Passion, He leaves His disciples with this commandment that echoes through the ages: “Love one another as I have loved you.” This is not a call to ordinary affection or tolerance it is a radical, sacrificial love that mirrors Christ’s own love on the Cross. His love is patient, forgiving, merciful, and willing to suffer for the sake of others. In this love, Jesus reveals the true glory of God. The glorification He speaks of is not about earthly triumphs, but about self-giving love that redeems and restores. This commandment is “new” not because love was never commanded before, but because of the measure of love: as I have loved you. This sets the standard for Christian discipleship. Love becomes the badge of authenticity for every believer. Jesus doesn’t say people will know us by our knowledge, our rituals, or our arguments but by our love. Today, we are invited to reflect on how well we embody this love in our homes, churches, communities, and even toward our enemies. Do we love as Jesus loves?

    In the First Reading, Sts. Paul and Barnabas return to the cities where they first preached the Gospel, despite the dangers they faced there. Their journey is not marked by comfort, but by perseverance. They exhort the new disciples, saying, “It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” This truth remains relevant today. The Christian path is not one of ease, but of grace-filled endurance. The apostles also appoint elders to shepherd the young communities, reminding us that leadership in the Church is not about power but about service, prayer, and trust in the Lord. The culmination of their mission is marked by joyful testimony: they report what God has done and how He opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. Evangelization is God’s work through willing hearts. This passage calls us to persevere in faith, to support one another, and to boldly witness to the Gospel no matter the obstacles.

    Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, the psalmist beautifully proclaims God’s character: gracious, merciful, kind, and compassionate. Psalm 145 is a hymn of praise that celebrates the everlasting reign of God and the universality of His kingdom. “Your kingdom is a kingdom for all ages,” we read, and this ties into the Gospel’s universal call to love. We are reminded that God’s love extends to all His works, and we, His faithful ones, are called to speak of His might and make His deeds known to every generation. This psalm becomes our song of gratitude for a God who not only reigns with justice but rules with tenderness.

    In today’s second reading, John the seer shares his vision of the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven. This new Jerusalem is an image of the Church at its best. The new Jerusalem is the community of believers who love one another as Jesus loves us. It is said of this new community in that reading, ‘Here God lives among men and women’. According to the words of the song, ‘Where charity and love are found, there is God’. The fullest revelation of God is a community of believers who love and encourage one another with the Lord’s own love. This is what we, the church, are called to become. St. John’s vision offers hope: a new heaven, a new earth, and a holy city the new Jerusalem. This is the fulfillment of God’s promise not only restoration but total transformation. “God’s dwelling is with the human race” points to the ultimate union between God and humanity. All sorrow, death, and pain will pass away. This reading assures us that love, suffering, and perseverance are not in vain. God is actively “making all things new.” In a world of loss and instability, this vision lifts our eyes to the eternal, urging us to live with joyful hope. The promise of no more tears and a renewed creation is God’s answer to the brokenness we see and endure.

    Do I truly live out the commandment to love others as Christ has loved me? Am I willing to love those who have hurt me or whom I find difficult to love? How do I respond to the hardships of Christian life with resignation or with perseverance in faith? In what ways can I speak of God’s kingdom to others, especially those outside the Church? Do people recognize me as a disciple of Jesus by the way I love? Let us go forth today as disciples marked by love the kind of love that bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. In a world desperate for compassion and truth, let our lives be a living sign of the love of Christ. Let us persevere, encourage one another, and proclaim boldly: “Behold, He makes all things new.” Amen. 🙏🏽

    Lord Jesus, You have shown us what love truly means a love that lays down its life, a love that forgives and never fails. Teach us to love one another as You have loved us not just in words but in deeds, not just in comfort but in sacrifice. Strengthen our hearts to persevere through trials, and open our eyes to the ways You are working even in hardship. Help us to be bold witnesses of Your Gospel and humble servants in Your Church. May our love bear the mark of Your cross and the fragrance of Your mercy. Amen. 🙏🏽

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT JOHN I, POPE AND MARTYR; SAINT VENANTIUS OF CAMERINO, MARTYR; AND SAINT FELIX OF CANTALICE, RELIGIOUS ~ FEAST DAY: MAY 18TH: Still rejoicing in the light of the Resurrection, the Church commemorates three great saints who witnessed to Christ in distinct yet powerful ways Saint John I (Patron of prisoners and diplomats), a Pope and martyr; Saint Venantius (Patron of Camerino, youth, and protection against earthquakes), a young and courageous martyr; and Saint Felix of Cantalice (Patron of beggars, the Capuchin Order, and children), a humble Capuchin friar and model of charity. Through their intercession, and under the maternal mantle of our Blessed Mother Mary, we offer prayers for the sick and the dying especially those suffering from terminal illnesses. We lift up the poor and the abandoned, beseeching the Lord’s mercy and protection over them. We pray for the Church and her clergy, for persecuted Christians around the world, for the conversion of sinners, and for the unity of all believers in Christ.

    Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | May 18th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

    (Direct link to the detailed history of Saint John I, Saint Venantius, and Saint Felix of Cantalice| https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-may-18th/)

    SAINT JOHN I, POPE AND MARTYR: Pope Saint John I served as the Bishop of Rome from 523 until his death in 526. Born in Tuscany, he began his ecclesial life as an archdeacon and was later elected Pope during a turbulent era. At the time, Italy was ruled by Theodoric the Great, an Ostrogothic king who adhered to Arianism a heresy denying the divinity of Christ.

    When Emperor Justin I in Constantinople took action against Arian churches in the East, Theodoric, fearing a threat to his religious allies, sent Pope John to negotiate more lenient treatment for the Arians. Though Pope John was received with great honor in Constantinople crowning the emperor and celebrating Easter at the famed Hagia Sophia he refused to compromise the Catholic faith. His diplomatic efforts were not enough to appease Theodoric, who, upon his return to Italy, accused the Pope of conspiracy. The saintly pontiff was imprisoned in Ravenna and subjected to cruel neglect, ultimately dying of starvation on May 18, 526.

    His martyrdom was the fruit of unwavering fidelity to the truth of Christ and the authority of the Church. His relics are venerated in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

    PRAYER: O God, who rewarded the faithfulness of Pope Saint John I with the crown of martyrdom, grant that we, persevering in the truth of the Gospel, may be strengthened by his intercession to endure all trials for the sake of Christ. Amen.🙏🏽

    SAINT VENANTIUS OF CAMERINO, MARTYR: Saint Venantius was a 15-year-old youth from Camerino, Italy, who bravely gave his life for Christ during the persecution under Emperor Decius in the year 250. Arrested for publicly preaching the Gospel, Venantius boldly professed his faith and denounced idolatry before the governor, Antiochus. His young age did not hinder his courage he endured vicious tortures: scourging, burning with torches, attempted suffocation, being thrown into fire, and having his jaws broken. Miraculously, he was delivered repeatedly by divine intervention.

    One of the persecutors witnessed an angel extinguish the flames meant to consume the saint, and was converted along with his household. Despite further torments, including being dragged over thorns and stoned, Venantius remained steadfast. Eventually, he and several of his companions were beheaded. His body rests in a church in Camerino, where miracles continued in his name.

    PRAYER: Heavenly Father, in Saint Venantius you gave us a fearless witness to youth and faith. Help us to emulate his strength and purity of heart, and may he intercede for our young people today, that they may remain faithful amidst trials. Amen.🙏🏽

    SAINT FELIX OF CANTALICE, RELIGIOUS: Saint Felix of Cantalice (1515–1587) was a humble Capuchin friar known for his deep devotion, simplicity, and radiant charity. Born into poverty in Cantalice, Italy, Felix worked as a shepherd and farm laborer before joining the Capuchins as a lay brother. After taking vows in 1545, he was assigned to Rome, where he spent over 40 years as a quaestor, going door-to-door begging alms not for himself, but for the poor and the sick.

    Though unlettered, Felix was rich in wisdom and spiritual insight. He walked barefoot through the streets of Rome, clutching his rosary and blessing everyone he met. People affectionately called him “Brother Deo Gratias” because of his constant thanksgiving to God. He was a friend and spiritual companion to saints like Philip Neri and Charles Borromeo.

    Saint Felix died on May 18, 1587, and was canonized in 1712. His life reminds us that true holiness lies not in status, but in serving Christ through simplicity and love.

    PRAYER: Lord Jesus, You taught us that the greatest in Your Kingdom are those who serve with humility. By the example and intercession of Saint Felix, teach us to embrace poverty of spirit and to love generously. Amen.🙏🏽

    Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint John I, Saint Venantius, and Saint Felix of Cantalice ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽

    THE HOLY FATHER, POPE FRANCIS’ MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF MAY: For Working Conditions ~ Let us pray that through work, each person might find fulfilment, families might be sustained in dignity, and that society might be humanized.

    PRAYER FOR THE MONTH OF MAY ~ POPE FRANCIS: For Working Conditions ~ Jesus, You knew work in this world, and You understand its hardships and joys… Hear our prayer today. Working is a human trait… Work is sacred… The beauty of the earth and the dignity of work were meant to be united… The earth becomes beautiful when man works… Lord, You see that we believe this with conviction, but we desire even more for it to become a reality among us.

    We are saddened when people can’t find work and lack the dignity of bringing bread to their home. Give us the light of your Spirit, open our hearts, do not let indifference overcome us.
    Help us recover the gift of universal brotherhood. We ask for a heart as big as Jesus’s so we can embrace the call to work to give dignity to people and families.
    Amen 🙏🏽

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

    DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF MAY | MONTH OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY: May is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God and our spiritual Mother. This month invites the faithful to draw closer to Mary through prayer, reflection, and imitation of her virtues especially her humility, obedience, purity, and unwavering faith. As the first and most perfect disciple of Christ, Mary leads us gently but firmly to her Son. Throughout Church history, May has been a time to honor Mary with special devotions such as the Rosary, May Crownings, Marian processions, and prayers like the Litany of Loreto. The Church teaches that Mary, assumed body and soul into Heaven, intercedes for us as Queen of Heaven and Mother of the Church. During this month, we are called to renew our relationship with her and seek her maternal care in our joys, sorrows, and needs. Mary said “yes” to God’s plan with total trust: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). Her faithful surrender encourages us to say “yes” to God’s will in our own lives. As we meditate on the mysteries of the Rosary and contemplate her role in salvation history, we grow in our love for her and our desire to follow Christ more closely.

    In this beautiful month of blooming flowers, may our hearts also blossom with deeper devotion to the Mother of our Savior. Let us bring her our prayers, our homes, and our lives, asking her to accompany us with her love and protection.

    “O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.”

    Hail Mary, full of grace! Teach us to love Jesus as you loved Him. Cover us with your mantle of mercy, and help us to walk always in the light of your Son. Amen 🙏🏽

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

    PRAYER INTENTIONS: As we celebrate this Fifth Sunday of Easter and honor the memory of Saint John I, Saint Venantius, and Saint Felix of Cantalice, we bring our heartfelt intentions before the Lord. We pray for the Church and her leaders, that they may be steadfast in proclaiming the Gospel with truth and love, even amidst trials, like Saint John I. We lift up the youth of the world, asking for strength and holiness in their journey, inspired by the courage of Saint Venantius. We remember the poor, the abandoned, and the overlooked in society, praying they may be embraced with charity and mercy, as exemplified by Saint Felix. We intercede for the sick and dying, especially those suffering from terminal illnesses, that they may experience God’s healing presence. We pray for all prisoners, especially those unjustly detained, for persecuted Christians around the globe, for the unity of all believers in Christ, and for the transformation of our world through the power of divine love. For the renewal of the world, that all creation may one day share in the fullness of God’s promise where “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes”

    LET US PRAY

    My loving Lord, You transformed death itself into the perfect means by which You gave glory to Your Father and were glorified Yourself. Please help me to enter into Your mind so that I can see my life as You see it and to live for that eternal glory to which I am called. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽

    God of infinite mercy and eternal love, You call us to reflect Your glory through lives of sacrificial love and service. As we walk in the footsteps of Your saints Saint John I, Saint Venantius, and Saint Felix of Cantalice grant us the grace to remain faithful in trials, joyful in poverty, and courageous in witness. May the command of Your Son to love one another as He has loved us become the rule of our lives. As we await the day when You will make all things new, may we be instruments of Your renewing love in the world today. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.🙏🏽

    We make this prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

    Save us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint John I, Saint Venantius, and Saint Felix of Cantalice ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽

    Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day, for the gift of our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV and the immeasurable love shown through His Son, our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. As we continue to rejoice in the glory of the Resurrection, may our hearts remain open to the peace and hope that flow from His victory over sin and death. During this joyful Easter season, we pray that our loving Savior will deepen our faith and draw us closer to the mystery of His Passion, death, and Resurrection. May we walk in the light of His risen life, renewed in spirit and overflowing with grace. Praying for us all and our loved ones today and we pray for journey mercies for all those traveling during this Easter season. As we embrace the blessings of this new month, may God’s abundant grace continue to shower upon us, filling our hearts with peace, joy, and hope in His Resurrection. May this new week be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ is truly risen! Alleluia! Have a blessed, safe, and grace-filled Sunday and joyful Fifth Week of Easter!🙏🏽

    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 |

  • Catholic  Daily Mass

    Catholic Daily Mass


    Catholic Daily Mass – Daily TV Mass – May 18, 2025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=El1_tg0HSyk

    Watch “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | May 18, 2025 |

    Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | May 18, 2025 |

    Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” |

  • POPE LEO XIV’S INAUGURATION MASS | LIVE FROM THE VATICAN

    POPE LEO XIV’S INAUGURATION MASS | LIVE FROM THE VATICAN

    Watch “POPE LEO XIV’S INAUGURATION MASS | LIVE FROM THE VATICAN, ST. PETER’S SQUARE | MAY 18, 2025 |

    Live from St. Peter’s Square for the historic Eucharistic Celebration for the Start of the Petrine Ministry of the Bishop of Rome, Pope Leo XIV. At the end of the Holy Mass, the Holy Father prayed the Regina Caeli prayer.

    We thank God for the successful celebration of the Inauguration Holy Mass for Pope Leo XIV. May the Holy Spirit guide him as he shepherds the faithful, and may his pontificate be a source of renewal and unity for the Church. Amen 🙏🏽

    HABEMUS PAPAM! A PRAYER FOR OUR HOLY FATHER, POPE LEO XIV

    MEET THE NEW POPE: Pope Leo XIV | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/live-from-st-peters-square-white-smoke-habemus-papam/

    As the Papal Conclave to elect the next Roman Pontiff comes to an end, with profound reverence we give thanks to Almighty God for the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church. Taking the name Pope Leo XIV, he becomes the first American-born pontiff in the Church’s two-millennia history. The announcement was made on May 8, 2025, following the traditional white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the conclusion of the conclave.

    Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, an American and a member of the Order of St. Augustine is known as Pope Leo XIV. A missionary bishop and former Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, Pope Leo XIV has served the Church faithfully in Chiclayo, Peru, and brings with him a pastoral heart deeply shaped by the Gospel and the spirituality of St. Augustine.

    LET US PRAY:

    Almighty God, we thank You for the gift of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. Grant him wisdom, courage, and humility as he leads the Church in truth and love. May the Holy Spirit guide his every word and action, and may he be a bridge of unity for all nations. Through the intercession of Mary, Queen of Peace, strengthen him in his mission to proclaim Christ to the world. Amen 🙏🏽

    Heavenly Father, You have raised Your servant, Pope Leo XIV, to the Chair of Saint Peter. Pour out Your abundant blessings upon him. Through him, guide Your pilgrim Church along the path to Heaven. Grant him wisdom to discern Your will, Courage to fulfill it, And charity to shepherd Your people with the Heart of Christ. In this time of transition, Bring peace to troubled hearts, Joy to those who suffer, And hope to the despairing. May he be a faithful successor to Peter, A humble servant of Your Word, And a fearless herald of Your Divine Mercy and Truth. Strengthen him with the grace of the Holy Spirit, That he may lead the Church in unity, holiness, and fidelity. We entrust him to the maternal care of the Blessed Virgin Mary, And to the prayers of all the saints. Through Christ our Lord. Amen 🙏🏽

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

  • SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: MAY 18TH

    SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: MAY 18TH

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT JOHN I, POPE AND MARTYR, SAINT VENANTIUS OF CAMERINO, MARTYR AND SAINT FELIX OF CANTALICE, RELIGIOUS ~ MAY 18TH: Today, we celebrate the Memorial of Saint John I, Pope and Martyr, Saint Venantius of Camerino, Martyr and Saint Felix of Cantalice, Religious. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and the Saints on this feast day, we humbly pray for the sick and dying, especially those suffering from terminal diseases. We also pray for the safety and well-being of the poor and the needy all over the world. We continue to pray for for the Church, the Clergy, for persecuted christians, for the conversion of sinners, and Christians all over the world 🙏

    SAINT JOHN I, POPE AND MARTYR: Pope John I (died May 18, 526) was the bishop of Rome from August 13, 523 to his death. St. John I was a martyr for the faith, imprisoned and starved to death by a heretical Germanic king during the sixth century. He was a friend of the renowned Christian philosopher Boethius, who died in a similar manner. He was a native of Siena (or the “Castello di Serena”, near Chiusdino), in Italy. The future Pope John I was born in Tuscany, and served as an archdeacon in the Church for several years. He was chosen to become the Bishop of Rome in 523, succeeding Pope St. Hormisdas. He was sent on a diplomatic mission to Constantinople by the Ostrogoth King Theoderic to negotiate better treatment for Arians. Although St. John was relatively successful, upon his return to Ravenna, Theoderic had him imprisoned for allegedly conspiring with Constantinople. The frail pope died of neglect and ill-treatment.

    During his papal reign Italy was ruled by the Ostrogothic King Theodoric. Like many of his fellow tribesmen, the king adhered to the Arian heresy, holding that Christ was a created being rather than the Second Person of the Holy Trinity. Arianism had originated in the Eastern half of the Roman Empire during the fourth century, and subsequently spread among the Western Goths. By the sixth century the heresy was weak in the East, but not dead. In 523, the Byzantine Emperor Justin I ordered Arian clergy to surrender their churches into orthodox Catholic hands. In the West, meanwhile, Theodoric was angered by the emperor’s move, and responded by trying to use the Pope’s authority for his own ends. Pope John was thus placed in an extremely awkward position. Despite the Pope’s own solid orthodoxy, the Arian king seems to have expected him to intercede with the Eastern emperor on behalf of the heretics. St. John’s refusal to satisfy King Theodoric would eventually lead to his martyrdom.

    St. John did travel to Constantinople, where he was honored as St. Peter’s successor by the people, the Byzantine Emperor, and the Church’s legitimate Eastern patriarchs. (The Church of Alexandria had already separated by this point.) The Pope crowned the emperor, and celebrated the Easter liturgy at the Hagia Sophia Church in April of 526. But while St. John could urge Justin to treat the Arians somewhat more mercifully, he could not make the kind of demands on their behalf that Theodoric expected. The gothic king, who had recently killed St. John’s intellectually accomplished friend Boethius (honored by the Church as St. Severinus Boethius, on Oct. 23), was furious with the Pope when he learned of his refusal to support the Arians in Constantinople. Already exhausted by his travels, the Pope was imprisoned in Ravenna and deprived of food. The death of St. John I came on or around May 18, 526 which became his feast day in the Byzantine Catholic tradition and in the Ordinary Form of the Roman Rite. In the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite, he is celebrated on May 27, the date on which his exhumed body was returned to Rome for veneration in St. Peter’s Basilica.

    PRAYER: God, the rewarder of those faithful to You, on this day You consecrated the martyrdom of Pope St. John. Hear the prayers of Your people and grant that we who venerate his merits may imitate the constancy of his Faith… Amen🙏

    SAINT VENANTIUS OF CAMERINO, MARTYR: Saint Venantius was a 15-year old who was tortured, and martyred by decapitation at Camerino during the persecutions of Decius. Martyred with him were 10 other Christians, including the priest Porphyrius, Venantius’ tutor; and Leontius, bishop of Camerino. St. Venantius (died in 250) was born at Camerino in Italy, during the persecution of Decius. He was taken into custody at the age of fifteen years as a Christian who was preaching Christ to others. His history is one of the most miraculous in the annals of the early martyrs. Having learned that he was about to be arrested, he presented himself to the governor of Camerino, Antiochus, at the city gates, and said to him that the lives of the gods were filled with every kind of crime, that there was only one God, whose unique Son had become a man to deliver his fellow humans from the tyranny of sin. When it was found impossible to shake his constancy either by threats or promises, he was condemned to be scourged, but was miraculously saved by an Angel. He was then burnt with torches and suspended over a low fire that he might be suffocated by the smoke. The judge’s secretary, while admiring the steadfastness of the Saint, saw an Angel robed in white, who stamped out the fire and again set free the youthful martyr. This man proclaimed his faith in Christ and was baptized with his whole family. Shortly afterwards he won the martyr’s crown. Venantius was summoned to appear before Antiochus. Unable to make him renounce his faith, the governor cast him into prison with an apostate soldier, who strove in vain to tempt him. Antiochus, furious, then ordered his teeth and jaws to be broken and had him thrown into a furnace, from which the Angel once more delivered him. The Saint was sent to a city magistrate to be condemned, but this judge after hearing his defense of Christianity, fell headlong from his seat and expired, saying, The God of Venantius is the true God; let us destroy our idols.

    When this circumstance was told to Antiochus, he ordered Venantius to be thrown to the lions. These brutes, however, forgetting their natural ferocity, crouched at the feet of the Saint. Then, by order of the tyrant, the young martyr was dragged through a heap of brambles and thorns and retired half-dead, but the next day he was cured; God had manifested the glory of His servant once more. On behalf of soldiers who had dragged him outside the city over stones and rocks, and were suffering from thirst, the Saint knelt on a rock and signed it with a cross; immediately a jet of clear, cool water welled up from the spot. This miracle converted many of those who beheld it. The rock remained imprinted by his knees and was placed in a church in Camerino, where it still remains. The governor finally had Venantius and his converts beheaded on the same day, in the year 250. The bodies of these martyrs are kept in the same church at Camerino. The Acts of Saint Venantius’ martyrdom have been carefully studied and declared authentic by the Church

    Saint Venantius of Camerino, Martyr ~ Pray for us🙏

    SAINT FELIX  OF CANTALICE, RELIGIOUS: St. Felix (May 18, 1515 – May 18, 1587) was an Italian Capuchin friar of the 16th century. He was the first Capuchin friar to be named a saint. St. Felix was the third of four sons born in Italy in a small village at the foot of Mount Appenine named Cantalice, to a pious but poor parents , whose names were Santi and Sainta Porri. It was not long before the little boy, when he approached the other children, was hailed by them: Here comes Felix, the Saint! He showed a predilection for solitary prayer from his earliest youth, and as a little shepherd used to retire to a quiet place to kneel there and meditate on the Passion of Jesus. At about the age of ten, St. Felix was hired out first as a shepherd to a family at Cittàducale, where he later worked as a farm hand. Until the age of twenty-eight he worked as a farm laborer and shepherd. He developed the habit of praying while he worked. Toward the end of autumn 1543, Felix entered the newly founded Capuchin friars as a lay brother at the Citta Ducale friary in the municipality of Anticoli Corrado and pronounced his vows in 1545. It is said that he was well noted for his piety. In 1547 he was sent to Rome as quaestor of the Capuchin Friary of St. Bonaventure, where he spent his remaining 40 years begging alms for the  community to help in the friars’ work of aiding the sick and the poor. His characteristic words to his companion were: Let us go, my Brother, with rosary in hand, our eyes to the ground and our spirit in heaven. He was of an exquisite politeness, extreme gentleness and great simplicity. The sick persons he visited at night became attached to him, and for his part, he sought them out everywhere in Rome, insofar as obedience permitted.

    One day on the street he met two duelists with sword in hand. He begged them to repeat after him, Deo gratias! which finally they did, and after taking him as arbiter of their quarrel, they separated as good friends. Saint Felix met Saint Philip Neri in Rome, and they became friends who wished one another all possible torments for the love of Jesus Christ. They sometimes remained together without speaking for considerable periods, seemingly transported with joy. Saint Felix had a great devotion to the most Blessed Virgin, reciting Her rosary with such tenderness that he could not continue at times. He loved the Holy Name of Jesus, and invited the children he would meet to say it with him. He slept only for about two hours, going afterwards to the church and remaining there in prayer until the office of Prime; then he would serve the first Mass and receive Communion every day.

    When he was sick and was given the last Sacraments, he saw the Blessed Virgin and a beautiful troop of Angels coming to fortify him in this last journey. He cried out in joy, and gave up his soul peacefully to his Creator in 1587. Saint Felix died in Rome, Italy on May 18, 1587 on his 72nd birthday and was buried in the crypt of the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini. He was canonized by Pope Clement XI in 1712. His body is in the Capuchin Church of Rome; a plenary indulgence is granted to those who, fulfilling the ordinary conditions, visit a church of his Order on his feast day, May 18th.

    Saint Felix of Cantalice, Religious ~ Pray for us🙏

  • MEMORIAL OF SAINT PASCHAL BAYLON, RELIGIOUS AND BLESSED ANTONIA MESINA,  VIRGIN AND MARTYR

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT PASCHAL BAYLON, RELIGIOUS AND BLESSED ANTONIA MESINA,  VIRGIN AND MARTYR

    SATURDAY OF THE FOURTH WEEK OF EASTER

    SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: FEAST DAY ~ MAY 17, 2025

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT PASCHAL BAYLON, RELIGIOUS AND BLESSED ANTONIA MESINA, VIRGIN AND MARTYR | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

    (Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Paschal Baylon and Blessed Antonia Mesina | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-may-17th/)

    Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | May 17, 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-74/

    Greetings and blessings, dear beloved family. Happy of Saturday the Fourth Week of Easter!

    We continue to celebrate the election of our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. May the Holy Spirit guide him as he shepherds the faithful, and may his pontificate be a source of renewal and unity for the Church.

    May this new week be filled with peace, joy, and the renewed hope that comes from Christ’s Resurrection. 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 🙏🏽

    The entire month of May is dedicated to our beloved Mother Mary, the Mother of God. As we continue to rejoice in the victory of Christ’s Resurrection, we give heartfelt thanks to God for the gift of life and for bringing us safely into the month of May. May this Easter season renew our strength, deepen our faith, and fill our hearts with the peace of the Risen Lord. May our Mother Mary continue to intercede for us and may God’s grace and mercy be with us all during this season of Easter. Wishing us all and our loved ones a joyful, blessed start to the month. Amen 🙏🏽

    HABEMUS PAPAM! A PRAYER FOR OUR HOLY FATHER, POPE LEO XIV

    MEET THE NEW POPE: Pope Leo XIV | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/live-from-st-peters-square-white-smoke-habemus-papam/

    As the Papal Conclave to elect the next Roman Pontiff comes to an end, with profound reverence we give thanks to Almighty God for the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church. Taking the name Pope Leo XIV, he becomes the first American-born pontiff in the Church’s two-millennia history. The announcement was made on May 8, 2025, following the traditional white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the conclusion of the conclave.

    Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, an American and a member of the Order of St. Augustine is known as Pope Leo XIV. A missionary bishop and former Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, Pope Leo XIV has served the Church faithfully in Chiclayo, Peru, and brings with him a pastoral heart deeply shaped by the Gospel and the spirituality of St. Augustine.

    LET US PRAY:

    Almighty God, we thank You for the gift of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. Grant him wisdom, courage, and humility as he leads the Church in truth and love. May the Holy Spirit guide his every word and action, and may he be a bridge of unity for all nations. Through the intercession of Mary, Queen of Peace, strengthen him in his mission to proclaim Christ to the world. Amen 🙏🏽

    Heavenly Father, You have raised Your servant, Pope Leo XIV, to the Chair of Saint Peter. Pour out Your abundant blessings upon him. Through him, guide Your pilgrim Church along the path to Heaven. Grant him wisdom to discern Your will, Courage to fulfill it, And charity to shepherd Your people with the Heart of Christ. In this time of transition, Bring peace to troubled hearts, Joy to those who suffer, And hope to the despairing. May he be a faithful successor to Peter, A humble servant of Your Word, And a fearless herald of Your Divine Mercy and Truth. Strengthen him with the grace of the Holy Spirit, That he may lead the Church in unity, holiness, and fidelity. We entrust him to the maternal care of the Blessed Virgin Mary, And to the prayers of all the saints. Through Christ our Lord. Amen 🙏🏽

    PRAYER FOR THE SOUL OF POPE FRANCIS: With the passing of Pope Francis, let us continue to pray for the eternal repose of his soul. Merciful and loving God, We entrust to You our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis. May he rest in the light of Your presence, where suffering and sorrow are no more, and every tear is wiped away. Comfort all who mourn his passing and raise up shepherds who will continue to guide Your Church in humility and love.

    Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May his gentle soul and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽

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

    Daily Reflections with Philomena | Prayer for the Soul of Pope Francis | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/precious-in-the-sight-of-the-lord-is-the-death-of-his-saints-psalm-11615/

    On this special feast day, as we continue to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, particularly Saint Joseph, Patron of the sick and dying, we pray for the sick and dying and all those who mourn the loss of their loved ones. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, especially for our Holy Father, POPE FRANCIS, all those who died today, and all the faithful departed may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their gentle souls and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯

    “Blessed are those who have died in the Lord; let them rest from their labors for their good deeds go with them.” ~ Rev 14:13

    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 🙏🏽

    Still rejoicing in the light of the Resurrection, the Church honors today two holy souls who gave their lives entirely to God in different yet profound ways Saint Paschal Baylon (Patron of Eucharistic associations, shepherds, cooks, vocations to the priesthood, and the poor), a humble lay brother of the Franciscan Order known for his intense devotion to the Holy Eucharist, and Blessed Antonia Mesina (Patron of victims of rape and sexual violence, youth, the Diocese of Nuoro, and Orgosolo), a young martyr of purity who died defending her dignity. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother and these holy saints, we offer prayers especially for vocations to the priesthood and religious life, particularly for seminarians preparing for ordination. We also remember youths, victims of rape and sexual violence, and all who suffer silently. May their witness strengthen the Church, uplift the brokenhearted, and inspire Christians across the world to seek holiness in daily life.

    DAILY REFLECTIONS WITH PHILOMENA | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

    Daily Saints, Holy Mass, Holy Rosary, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Scripture Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/reflections/

    Watch “HOLY MASS ON THE JUBILEE OF THE SICK AND HEALTHCARE WORKERS | Presided by H.E. Most Rev. Rino Fisichella | Live from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican | April 6, 2025” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/06/holy-mass-on-the-jubilee-of-the-sick-and-healthcare-workers/

    THE LITURGICAL YEAR IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/12/03/the-liturgical-year-in-the-catholic-church/

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

    Pray “Holy Rosary for Peace with Pope Francis” | “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song”| “Holy Rosary ALL 20 Mysteries | Memorare Chaplet | Prayer in Difficult Times (Powerful Prayer) | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/30/holy-rosary-for-peace-with-pope-francis/

    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/

    PRAYER FOR PEACE ~ POPE FRANCIS:

    Lord God of peace, hear our prayer!

    A PRAYER FOR PEACE : Lord Jesus Christ, You are the true King of peace. In You alone is found freedom. Please free our world from conflict. Bring unity to troubled nations. Let Your glorious peace reign in every heart. Dispel all darkness and evil. Protect the dignity of every human life. Replace hatred with Your love. Give wisdom to world leaders. Free them from selfish ambition. Eliminate all violence and war. Glorious Virgin Mary, Saint Michael the Archangel, Every Angel and Saint: Please pray for peace. Pray for unity amongst nations. Pray for unity amongst all people. Pray for the most vulnerable. Pray for those suffering. Pray for the fearful. Pray for those most in need. Pray for us all. Jesus, Son of the Living God, have mercy on us. Jesus, hear our prayers. Jesus, I trust in You! Amen 🙏🏽

    Prayers for Peace | https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/prayers-for-peace/

    SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

    Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Saturday of the Fourth Week of Easter | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading

    Today’s Bible Readings: Saturday of the Fourth Week of Easter | May 17, 2025
    Reading 1: Acts 13:44–52
    Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 98:1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4
    Gospel: John 14:7–14

    Gospel Reading ~ John 14:7–14

    “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father”

    “Jesus said to His disciples: “If you know me, then you will also know my Father. From now on you do know him and have seen him.” Philip said to Jesus, “Master, show us the Father, and that will be enough for us.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you for so long a time and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on my own. The Father who dwells in me is doing his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else, believe because of the works themselves. Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and will do greater ones than these, because I am going to the Father. And whatever you ask in my name, I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do it.”

    In today’s Gospel, Jesus continues His heartfelt dialogue with His disciples as He prepares them for His departure. His words reveal the deep unity between Him and the Father. Philip’s request, “Show us the Father,” reflects the longing of every human heart to see God, to know Him personally. Jesus answers with a profound truth: to see Him is to see the Father. In Christ, the invisible God becomes visible. This is a cornerstone of our Christian faith Jesus is the perfect image of the Father, the living revelation of divine love. He is not merely a messenger or a prophet; He is God-with-us.

    Jesus also reassures His disciples that belief in Him will empower them to do great things. His promise, “Whatever you ask in my name, I will do,” emphasizes the power of prayer rooted in relationship with Him. It’s not a blank check, but an invitation to pray in harmony with His will and mission to glorify the Father through the Son. Today, we are reminded that Jesus is both our window to the Father and our advocate before Him. We are called not just to admire Him, but to believe in Him deeply, and to live as His instruments in the world.

    Reflecting on today’s First Reading from Acts, we see the power of the Gospel to stir hearts and resistance. Paul and Barnabas proclaim the Word of God with boldness in Antioch, and the response is dramatic. While the Gentiles rejoice and embrace the message, some of the Jews react with jealousy, inciting persecution. Paul and Barnabas respond not with fear or bitterness, but with courage and clarity: “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken to you first… we now turn to the Gentiles.” Their mission is rooted in Scripture and in divine mandate “I have made you a light to the Gentiles.” This moment marks a significant shift in the early Church’s outreach and reminds us of our own call to be lights in a world darkened by disbelief and division. The joy of the disciples, even in the face of opposition, reveals the power of the Holy Spirit at work in them. True discipleship may cost us comfort and approval, but it fills us with a deeper joy the joy of knowing we walk in God’s will.

    Reflecting on today’s Psalm, we sing with the psalmist: “All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.” Psalm 98 is a joyful proclamation of God’s mighty deeds and the universal reach of His salvation. The Psalm reminds us that the Gospel is for all nations every land, every people. God’s salvation is not a hidden secret but a revealed truth. His victory is not for a select few but for all who open their hearts to Him. Singing a new song to the Lord, as the Psalm invites us, means embracing the freshness of God’s mercies each day and witnessing to His love with renewed zeal. Even in the face of trials, our lives can sing His praise.

    Am I truly recognizing Jesus as the full revelation of the Father, or do I still seek signs beyond what He has already revealed? How can I grow in deeper trust that He is who He says He is? Do I pray in His name with confidence, aligning my will with His mission? How do I respond when I face rejection for my faith with fear or with bold joy like Paul and Barnabas? Am I willing to be a light to others, even if it means stepping out of my comfort zone?

    Let us rest today in the assurance that to know Jesus is to know the Father. Let us believe more deeply in His promises, pray in His name, and walk with courage as disciples in the power of the Holy Spirit. Let our lives bear witness to the truth that Christ is alive, and His saving power is reaching to the ends of the earth. Amen. 🙏🏽

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT PASCHAL BAYLON, RELIGIOUS, AND BLESSED ANTONIA MESINA, VIRGIN AND MARTYR ~ FEAST DAY: MAY 17TH: Still rejoicing in the light of the Resurrection, the Church honors today two holy souls who gave their lives entirely to God in different yet profound ways Saint Paschal Baylon (Patron of Eucharistic associations, shepherds, cooks, vocations to the priesthood, and the poor), a humble lay brother of the Franciscan Order known for his intense devotion to the Holy Eucharist, and Blessed Antonia Mesina (Patron of victims of rape and sexual violence, youth, the Diocese of Nuoro, and Orgosolo), a young martyr of purity who died defending her dignity. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother and these holy saints, we offer prayers especially for vocations to the priesthood and religious life, particularly for seminarians preparing for ordination. We also remember youths, victims of rape and sexual violence, and all who suffer silently. May their witness strengthen the Church, uplift the brokenhearted, and inspire Christians across the world to seek holiness in daily life.

    Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | May 17th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

    (Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Paschal Baylon and Blessed Antonia Mesina | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-may-17th/)

    SAINT PASCHAL BAYLON, RELIGIOUS (1540–1592): Born on the feast of Pentecost in 1540 in Torre Hermosa, Spain, Saint Paschal Baylon came from a humble shepherd family. Even as a boy, he displayed deep piety, often praying in the fields and seeking to educate himself despite having little access to formal schooling. Drawn to a life of poverty and penance, he eventually joined the Order of Friars Minor as a lay brother, refusing the clerical state out of humility. For twenty-eight years, he lived a life marked by austerity, charity, and profound devotion to the Eucharist.

    Saint Paschal was renowned for his mystical experiences, often entering into ecstasies during prayer. On one occasion, while longing for the Eucharist during Mass, he witnessed a miraculous vision of the Host surrounded by angels. He spent many nights in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament and is considered one of the great champions of Eucharistic devotion. His humility and compassion attracted many who sought his guidance, and miracles were reported at his tomb following his death on May 17, 1592.

    Canonized by Pope Alexander VIII in 1690 and later declared the Patron of Eucharistic congresses and associations by Pope Leo XIII, Saint Paschal reminds us that sanctity is found not only in grand gestures but in humble faithfulness to God’s presence in the Eucharist.

    Patron of: Eucharistic associations, shepherds, cooks, vocations to the priesthood, and the poor.
    🕊️ “God is as really present in the consecrated Host as He is in the glory of Heaven.” – St. Paschal Baylon

    PRAYER: O God, who adorned Saint Paschal with a burning love for the Sacred Mysteries of Your Body and Blood, grant that we too may draw from this Divine Banquet the same spiritual nourishment he received. May our love for the Eucharist deepen, and may we, like him, live lives of humility and reverence. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏

    BLESSED ANTONIA MESINA, VIRGIN AND MARTYR (1919–1935): Blessed Antonia Mesina was born into a large, humble family on June 21, 1919, in Orgosolo, Sardinia, Italy. As the second of ten children, Antonia took on many family responsibilities at a young age, especially after her mother became bedridden. Despite her burdens, she was filled with joy, humility, and devotion, becoming an active member of Catholic Action and encouraging others in her parish to live faithfully.

    At just sixteen years old, on May 17, 1935, Antonia was gathering firewood with a friend after Mass when she was violently assaulted by a young man who attempted to rape her. Antonia fiercely resisted, defending her purity and dignity to the end. Her attacker struck her seventy-four times with a stone, ending her life in a brutal act of violence. Her unwavering courage and refusal to submit marked her as a martyr of chastity.

    Her sacrifice deeply moved the Church and local community. Pope Pius XI was personally informed of her death by Armida Barelli of Catholic Action, and in 1987, Pope Saint John Paul II beatified her, raising her as a model of purity, courage, and youthful holiness.

    Patron of: Victims of rape and sexual violence, youth, the Diocese of Nuoro, Orgosolo.

    PRAYER: Lord God, You chose Blessed Antonia Mesina to bear witness to the dignity of the human body and the strength of chastity. Through her courageous martyrdom, inspire young people to embrace holiness, and console those who suffer violence and abuse. Strengthen in us the resolve to protect and uplift the vulnerable, through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏

    Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Paschal Baylon and Blessed Antonia Mesina ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽

    THE HOLY FATHER, POPE FRANCIS’ MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF MAY: For Working Conditions ~ Let us pray that through work, each person might find fulfilment, families might be sustained in dignity, and that society might be humanized.

    PRAYER FOR THE MONTH OF MAY ~ POPE FRANCIS: For Working Conditions ~ Jesus, You knew work in this world, and You understand its hardships and joys… Hear our prayer today. Working is a human trait… Work is sacred… The beauty of the earth and the dignity of work were meant to be united… The earth becomes beautiful when man works… Lord, You see that we believe this with conviction, but we desire even more for it to become a reality among us.

    We are saddened when people can’t find work and lack the dignity of bringing bread to their home. Give us the light of your Spirit, open our hearts, do not let indifference overcome us.
    Help us recover the gift of universal brotherhood. We ask for a heart as big as Jesus’s so we can embrace the call to work to give dignity to people and families.
    Amen 🙏🏽

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

    DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF MAY | MONTH OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY: May is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God and our spiritual Mother. This month invites the faithful to draw closer to Mary through prayer, reflection, and imitation of her virtues especially her humility, obedience, purity, and unwavering faith. As the first and most perfect disciple of Christ, Mary leads us gently but firmly to her Son. Throughout Church history, May has been a time to honor Mary with special devotions such as the Rosary, May Crownings, Marian processions, and prayers like the Litany of Loreto. The Church teaches that Mary, assumed body and soul into Heaven, intercedes for us as Queen of Heaven and Mother of the Church. During this month, we are called to renew our relationship with her and seek her maternal care in our joys, sorrows, and needs. Mary said “yes” to God’s plan with total trust: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). Her faithful surrender encourages us to say “yes” to God’s will in our own lives. As we meditate on the mysteries of the Rosary and contemplate her role in salvation history, we grow in our love for her and our desire to follow Christ more closely.

    In this beautiful month of blooming flowers, may our hearts also blossom with deeper devotion to the Mother of our Savior. Let us bring her our prayers, our homes, and our lives, asking her to accompany us with her love and protection.

    “O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.”

    Hail Mary, full of grace! Teach us to love Jesus as you loved Him. Cover us with your mantle of mercy, and help us to walk always in the light of your Son. Amen 🙏🏽

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

    PRAYER INTENTIONS: As we reflect on today’s readings and the lives of Saint Paschal Baylon and Blessed Antonia Mesina, we pray for a deeper love and reverence for the Holy Eucharist in the hearts of all believers, inspired by the devotion of Saint Paschal. We lift up young people around the world, especially those facing peer pressure, temptation, or violence, that they may be strengthened in purity and courage like Blessed Antonia. May seminarians and religious in formation be rooted in humility, service, and Eucharistic love. We pray for all victims of sexual violence and abuse, that they may find healing, justice, and peace through the mercy of God and the support of the Church. For missionaries and evangelizers who face opposition, may they remain steadfast like Paul and Barnabas, proclaiming the Gospel with boldness and joy. We also pray for those struggling with doubt or seeking signs of God’s presence, that they may encounter Christ and know Him as the Way to the Father. May we all grow in faith, believe in the power of prayer, and reflect Christ in all we do.

    LET US PRAY

    Providential Lord, Your will is perfect and glorious. Please help me to humble myself before You, every day, so that I will understand Your will for my life and choose it always. May I be an instrument of Your saving grace to all whom You wish to touch through me. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽

    Lord Jesus Christ, You are the visible face of the invisible God, the One who reveals the Father to us. Strengthen our faith so that we may truly believe in Your name and live in the light of Your truth. Through the intercession of Saint Paschal Baylon, inflame our hearts with love for the Holy Eucharist, that we may recognize Your presence in the Blessed Sacrament and find strength for the journey. Through the courageous witness of Blessed Antonia Mesina, inspire us to purity, fortitude, and trust, especially in times of trial. May the power of Your Resurrection give hope to the broken, courage to the faithful, and unity to Your Church. Hear the prayers we offer today and transform our lives into living testimonies of Your saving love. Amen.🙏🏽

    We make this prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

    Save us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Paschal Baylon and Blessed Antonia Mesina ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽

    Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day, for the gift of our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV and the immeasurable love shown through His Son, our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. As we continue to rejoice in the glory of the Resurrection, may our hearts remain open to the peace and hope that flow from His victory over sin and death. During this joyful Easter season, we pray that our loving Savior will deepen our faith and draw us closer to the mystery of His Passion, death, and Resurrection. May we walk in the light of His risen life, renewed in spirit and overflowing with grace. Praying for us all and our loved ones today and we pray for journey mercies for all those traveling during this Easter season. As we embrace the blessings of this new month, may God’s abundant grace continue to shower upon us, filling our hearts with peace, joy, and hope in His Resurrection. May this weekend be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ is truly risen! Alleluia! Have a blessed, safe, and grace-filled Saturday and joyful Fourth Week of Easter and relaxing weekend 🙏🏽

    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 |

  • Catholic Daily Mass

    Catholic Daily Mass

    Watch “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | May 17, 2025 |

    Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | May 17, 2025 |

    Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” |

  • SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: MAY 17TH

    SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: MAY 17TH

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT PASCHAL BAYLON, RELIGIOUS AND BLESSED ANTONIA MESINA,  VIRGIN AND MARTYR ~ MAY 17TH: Today, we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Paschal Baylon, Religious and Blessed Antonia Mesina, Virgin and Martyr. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and the Saints on this feast day, we humbly pray for Vocation to the Priesthood and Religious life. We particularly pray for all Youths and all Seminarians, with special intention for those Seminarians who will be ordained into Priesthood. We also pray for victims of Rape and all forms of sexual violence and we continue to pray for the Church, the Clergy, for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and Christians all over the world🙏

    Loving and Generous God, it is You who call us by name and ask us to follow You. Help us to grow in the Love and Service of our Church as we experience it today. Give us the energy and courage of Your Spirit
    to shape its future. Grant us faith-filled leaders who will embrace Christ’s Mission
    of love and justice. Bless your Church by raising up dedicated and generous leaders from our families and friends who will serve Your people as Sisters, Priests, Brothers, Deacons and Lay Ministers. Inspire us to know You better
    and open our hearts to hear Your call. We ask this through our Lord… Amen🙏

    SAINT PASCHAL BAYLON, RELIGIOUS: St. Paschal Baylon (May 16, 1540 – May 17, 1592) was named after the day of his birth and death: Pentecost Sunday-Pascha Pentekostes. He was a Spanish Roman Catholic lay professed religious of the Order of Friars Minor. He hailed from the Spanish section of Valencia. St. Paschal was born at Torre Hermosa in the Kingdom of Aragon, on May 16, 1540. He was a simple, pious shepherd boy who later became an ardent spiritual son of St. Francis and the heavenly patron of adorers of the Most Blessed Sacrament. He belongs to that illustrious circle of saints who, by heroic holiness of life, refurbished the Church’s crown that had been desecrated by the heretics of the sixteenth century. St. Paschal Baylon spent his early childhood as a shepherd and often gave religious instruction to the shepherds on the hills of Aragon. So great was his desire for instruction that while tending his sheep he carried a book with him and begged those he met to reach him the alphabet. Thus, in a short time he learned to read. He served as a shepherd alongside his father in his childhood and adolescence, but desired to enter the religious life. St. Paschal led the solitary life of a shepherd until he was about twenty-four. He was refused once but later was admitted as a Franciscan lay brother.  By meditation, prayer, and the reading of pious works, he advanced rapidly in perfection, so that he decided to embrace the religious state and petitioned the Franciscans to admit him into their Order, he had already reached an eminent degree of sanctity. When he decided to become a Religious, he purposely avoided rich monasteries, for he said, “I was born poor, and I am resolved to die in poverty and penance.”  In 1564, St. Paschal entered among the Reformed Franciscans in the Kingdom of Valentia and insisted upon becoming simply a lay brother. For twenty-eight years he lived a perfect life in the austere Order he had chosen, a life of extreme poverty and of constant prayer, which even his labors did not interrupt. He was sent to counter the arguments of the Calvinists in France but was chased out and nearly killed by a mob. He became noted for his strict austerities, as well as his love for and compassion towards the sick.

    St. Paschal was best known for his strong and deep devotion to our Lord in the Holy Eucharist. One day St. Paschal heard the bells of a convent announce the approaching consecration at Mass. Such an ardent longing for God overcame him that, prompted by yearning and love, he involuntarily cried out: “O God, most worthy of all adoration, please let me see You!” Hardly had he uttered the prayer when a glowing star appeared in the sky. As he watched, the heavens opened; the star disappeared and was replaced by a chalice with the Host, flanked by two adoring angels. Christian art has selected this vision to show his chief virtue, viz., love for the most holy Eucharist. Toward the end of his life he frequently spent a great part of the night in prayer before the altar. God often favored him with ecstasies and raptures, but so great was his humility that he carefully avoided whatever might redound to his honor or praise. St. Paschal also had a great devotion to the Blessed Virgin. His piety drew people from all over seeking his counsel, and at his death caused miracles that were reported at his tomb. He died on May 17, 1592 at the age of 52. As he lay dead upon the bier, he opened and closed his eyes twice when the sacred species were elevated at the consecration. Pope Leo XIII declared him the heavenly patron of all Eucharistic leagues and societies. The process for his canonization opened and in 1618 he was beatified; Pope Alexander VIII canonized him a saint on October 16, 1690. He’s the Patron Saint of Eucharistic congresses and Eucharistic associations (proclaimed by Pope Leo XIII); Cooks; Shepherds; Male Children;  Priesthood Vocation; Obado, Bulacan, Phillipines.

    “God is as really present in the consecrated Host as He is in the glory of Heaven”  ~ St. Paschal Baylon

    PRAYER: God, You filled St. Paschal with a wondrous love for mysteries of Your Body and Blood. May we draw from this Divine Banquet the same spiritual riches he received… Amen🙏
     
    BLESSED ANTONIA MESINA, VIRGIN AND MARTYR: Bl. Antonio Mesina (June 21, 1919 – May 17, 1935) was an Italian Roman Catholic and part of Catholic Action. Bl. Mesina was murdered in mid-1935 after she attempted to fend off a would-be rapist and suffered 74 strikes with a stone before she died. Blessed Antonia Mesina was the second of ten children born on June 21, 1919; Orgosolo, on the Island of Sardinia, Kingdom of Italy to a poor family. Being the second oldest child, she had to leave school to help with the family chores after her mother became bedridden, a task which she accepted with obedience, humility, and joy. Bl. Antonia’s mother referred to her daughter as “the flower of my life.” Despite her heavy responsibilities at home, Bl. Antonia was also active in her parish, a very active member of Young Women of Catholic Action, an Italian Catholic organization for the laity, at the age of 10 and encouraging others to do the same.

    On May 17, 1935, while in the forest with a friend gathering firewood after Mass, Bl. Antonia was assaulted by a teenage boy who attempted to rape her. Her friend ran for help while Antonia bravely defended herself against her attacker. The young man, unable to achieve his goal due to her continuous resistance, brutally attacked Bl. Antonia with dozens of blows with a rock. She fought him off to her last breath and she suffered 74 strikes with a stone before she died. By the time help arrived, it was too late. Bl. Antonia died at the age of sixteen on May 17, 1935 at Orgosolo,  Sardinia, Kingdom of Italy. The entire town accompanied her body to the site of her burial. On October 5, 1935 the Catholic Action member Venerable Armida Barelli – who had met Antonia once – met with Pope Pius XI and informed him of Antonia’s activism and her murder. She is considered a martyr of sexual purity, and was Beatified on October 4, 1987, Saint Peter’s Square, Vatican City by Pope St. John Paul II. Her story has been likened to that of St. Maria Goretti. Blessed Antonia Messina is the Patron Saint of Rape victims; Youth; Nuoro; Orgosolo. Her feast day is May 17th.

    Blessed Antonia Mesina,  Virgin and Martyr ~ Pray for us🙏

  • Catholic Daily Mass

    Catholic Daily Mass

    Watch “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | May 16, 2025 |

    Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | May 16, 2025 |

    Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” |

  • SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ MAY 16TH

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT BRENDAN, ABBOT; SAINT JOHN NEPOMUCENE, PRIEST AND MARTYR; SAINT SIMON STOCK, AND SAINT UBALDUS, BISHOP OF GUBBIO ~ MAY 16TH: Today, we celebrate the Memorial of  Saint Brendan, Abbot; Saint John Nepomucene, Priest and Martyr, Saint Simon Stock and Saint Ubaldus, Bishop of Gubbio. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and the Saints on this feast day, we humbly pray for the sick and dying, especially those suffering from terminal diseases. We also pray for the safety and well-being of all travelers, the poor and the needy all over the world. We continue to pray for the Church, the Clergy, for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and Christians all over the world🙏

    SAINT BRENDAN, ABBOT: Brendan of Clonfert (c. AD 484 – c. 577) (Brendan also spelled Brandon or Brandan, Gaelic Brénaind, also called Brendan of Clonfert, Brendan the Voyager, or Brendan the Navigator). He is one of the early  Irish monastic saints and one of the Twelve Apostles of Ireland. He is primarily renowned for his legendary journey to the “Isle of the Blessed”, also denominated “Saint Brendan’s Island” as described in the ninth century Voyage of St.  Brendan the Navigator. St. Brendan, one of the most popular Irish Saint, was a missionary voyager who is sometimes credited with the discovery of America. He is thought to have been born in County Kerry, Ireland, about 484 and given to the care of St. Ita as an infant for five years. St. Brendan was then cared for by Bishop Erc, who eventually ordained him to the priesthood. St. Jarlath also rendered edification and counsel to the young Brendan, who went on to live as a monk in an established community.

    St. Brendan made a sea voyage to the Scottish Isles and even to Wales. He is thought to have visited St. Gildas in Britain and performed some miracles there. St. Brendan founded numerous monastic communities, including the one at Clonfert in 559, which grew to hold some 3000 monks. He also produced a Rule that was said to have been dictated by an Angel. Worn out by a life of accomplishments for God, Brendan died about 577/583 while visiting his sister Brig, who was the Abbess of a community of nuns at Enach Duin. In legend, this Saint is known as Brendan the Navigator, who once made a seven-year voyage in search of fabled paradise (“The Land of Promise”), which is recounted in an epic saga known as The Voyage of St. Brendan the Abbot. In this journey, Brendan is said to have started off with sixty companions in a kind of floating monastery and made his way to the Canary Islands and then to the coast of Greenland. He’s the Patron Saint ofboatmen; divers; mariners; sailors; watermen;  travellers; whales; portaging canoes; Diocese of Clonfert; Diocese of Kerry.

    PRAYER: Lord, amid the things of this world, let us be wholeheartedly committed to heavenly things in imitation of the example of evangelical perfection You have given us in St. Brendan the Abbot. Amen🙏
     
    SAINT JOHN NEPOMUCENE, PRIEST AND MARTYR: St. John Nepomucene (1345-1393) also known as St. John of Nepomuk was a Saint of Bohemia born John Wölflein or Welflin, in Nepomuk, Bohemia, in 1345, Saint John used the name of his native town for his surname instead of his family name. In his early childhood, John Nepomucene was cured of a disease through the prayers of his good parents. In thanksgiving, they consecrated him to the service of God. He studied theology and law at the University of Prague and was eventually ordained a priest. After John was ordained, he was sent to a parish in the city of Prague. He became a great preacher, and thousands of those listened to him changed their way of life. In time, he became vicar general of Archbishop John of Genzenstein at Prague.

    In 1393, King Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia, wishing to found a new bishopric for one of his favorites, ordered that at the death of the present abbot of Kladrau Abbey, no new abbot should be elected and that the abbey church should be turned into a cathedral. The archbishop and John thwarted the king’s plan by approving the election of a new abbot immediately on the death of the old one. Upon hearing this, Wenceslaus fell into a violent rage and had the vicar-general and several cathedral officials thrown into prison. John was tortured by having his sides burnt with torches, but even this could not move him. An additional reason for John’s violent death may be because of the tale that is traditionally told about him: Father John was invited to the court of Wenceslaus IV. He settled arguments and did many kind deeds for the needy people of the city. He also became the Queen’s confessor. When the King was cruel to the Queen, Father John taught her to bear her cross patiently. One day,  the King asked the Saint to tell what the Queen had said in confession. When he refused, he was thrown into prison. A second time, Father John was asked to reveal the Queen’s confession. “If you do not tell me,” said the King, “you shall die. But if you obey my command, riches and honors will be yours.” Again Father John vehemently refused to break the seal of the confessional. He was tortured. Finally, on March 20, 1393, the king ordered him to be put in chains and led through the city with a block of wood in his mouth. His martyrdom was complete when he was then thrown from a bridge into the Moldau River at Prague. A strange brightness is said to have appeared above the spot where he drowned; because of this  St. John of Nepomucene is often portrayed in art with seven stars above his head. For this reason, St. John is also called the “Martyr of the Confessional” and is sometimes pictured with his finger to his lips. He was canonized in 1729 by Pope Benedict XIII and is honored as a Patron Saint of Bohemia and of confessors, Czechoslovakia, Bohemia, confessors, bridges, floods, against slander, silence. (Refer to March 20th Saint post, the date of his death)

    PRAYER: God, we praise You for the grace You granted to St. John to offer his life in defense of the seal of confession. Grant that, through his prayers, we may use the Sacrament of Penance often and with profit. Amen. Almighty and merciful God, who brought your Martyr blessed John Nepomucene to overcome the torments of his passion, grant that we, who celebrate the day of his triumph, may remain invincible under your protection against the snares of the enemy. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen🙏

    SAINT SIMON STOCK, PRIEST: St. Simon Stock (1165-1265) was hermit who became a member of the Carmelite order. He received a vision of the Blessed Mother promising salvation to all those who wore the brown scapular which she showed him — a vision that led to the widespread devotion to Mary over the next centuries of wearing this scapular in her honor. St. Simon Stock born in Kent, England in 1165. He was strongly drawn to God as a child, and at the age of twelve he began to live as a hermit in the hollow of an oak tree. After two decades of this solitary and penitential life, he entered the world again to study theology and become a priest. His studies complete, he then returned to his hermitage. At this time the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to him, instructing him to join the Carmelite Order that was just entering England. St. Simon became a Carmelite in 1212. By 1215 he became the order’s leader and worked to establish it across Europe, especially at the great universities. He also traveled to Rome and Mt. Carmel in the Holy Land, and revised the Carmelite Rule to make them mendicant friars instead of hermits.

    Tradition holds that the Virgin Mary appeared to him again and presented him with a brown scapular, the habit of his order, promising that those who wore it would not be eternally lost in hell. This apparition is known as Our Lady of Mount Carmel, and her “scapular promise” is that she will intercede with her Son to ensure that the wearer of the scapular obtains the grace of final perseverance, that is, of dying in a state of grace. This is the origin of the Brown Scapular devotion which soon spread to the laity to obtain the graces promised by Our Lady, a devotion later encouraged by many popes. St. Simon Stock’s feast day is May 16th.

    Saint Simon Stock, Priest ~ Pray for us🙏

    SAINT UBALDUS, BISHOP OF GUBBIO: St. Ubaldus, Bishop of Gubbio was born in Gubbio, Italy to Rivaldo Baldassini. When he was only a child, this son of a noble Italian family became an orphan. His uncle, a bishop, took charge of him and gave him a good education. When he finished his schooling, Ubaldus had the chance to marry any one of a number of lovely noblewomen, but he wanted to dedicate his life to God. He became a priest, and made a canon. Since his virtue was outstanding against his own wishes but upon the request of Pope Honorius II, he became the bishop of his native city in 1128. In this capacity he was a model of apostolic simplicity, pastoral zeal, and personal holiness. He is remembered in central Italy as a Bishop who was entirely devoted to the duties of his office. He led a life of exceptional austerity. He belonged to the Order of Canons Regular of St. Augustine. His aid is popularly invoked against evil spirits. To this day his body remains incorrupt. St. Ubaldus was so mild and patient that he did not seem to mind any insult. Once a workman repairing the city wall damaged his vineyard very much. The Saint gently pointed it out to him. The workman, who probably did not recognize the bishop, shoved him so hard that he fell into a pile of wet cement and got up all covered with it. Yet he said not one word of complaint and went into his house. The city officials were going to punish the man, but Ubald wanted him to be set free and he himself gave him the kiss of peace. The holy Bishop did indeed love peace, and he had the courage it takes to keep it. Once, when the people of Gubbio were fighting in the streets, he threw himself between the two angry crowds. He seemed unafraid of the swords clashing and the rocks flying. Suddenly he fell to the ground. The people stopped fighting at once, for they thought the Saint had been killed. But he got up and showed them that he was not even hurt. Then all together, the people thanked God for having stopped them from doing each other more harm. Another time, when the Emperor Frederick Barbarossa was going to attack the city, St. Ubald went out on the road to talk to him, and he convinced this bold emperor to leave Gubbio alone.

    The Saint also had much to suffer from sicknesses. Yet he never spoke about his pains, and if someone tried to show sorrow over them, he would change the subject at once. Even in his last sickness, he managed to get up to say Mass and give the people his blessing. The power St. Ubaldus possessed against evil spirits was evident. The Church moves in a spirit world–good angels are all about, while constant vigilance is exercised against Satan and his devils. The liturgy contains a considerable number of exorcisms and adjurations. Then there are a series of sacramentals directed against the power of evil spirits; for example, holy water, palms, candles. Hold these sacramentals in highest esteem. He died on May 16, 1160 at Gubbio,  Italy. Canonized  4 March 1192 by Pope Celestine III. He’s the  Patron Saint of Gubbio, Migraine, Neuralgia, Autistic Spectrum Disorders.

    Let us learn from St. Ubald never to give in to anger, and to forgive those who may hurt us in any way. Saint Ubaldus, Bishop of Gubbio ~ Pray for us🙏

  • MEMORIAL OF SAINT BRENDAN, ABBOT; SAINT JOHN NEPOMUCENE, PRIEST AND MARTYR; SAINT SIMON STOCK, AND SAINT UBALDUS, BISHOP OF GUBBIO

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT BRENDAN, ABBOT; SAINT JOHN NEPOMUCENE, PRIEST AND MARTYR; SAINT SIMON STOCK, AND SAINT UBALDUS, BISHOP OF GUBBIO

    FRIDAY OF THE FOURTH WEEK OF EASTER

    SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: FEAST DAY ~ MAY 16, 2025

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT BRENDAN, ABBOT; SAINT JOHN NEPOMUCENE, PRIEST AND MARTYR; SAINT SIMON STOCK, AND SAINT UBALDUS, BISHOP OF GUBBIO | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

    (Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Brendan, Saint John Nepomucene, Saint Simon Stock, and Saint Ubaldus | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-may-16th/)

    Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | May 16, 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-73/

    Greetings and blessings, dear beloved family. Happy Friday of the Fourth Week of Easter!

    We continue to celebrate the election of our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. May the Holy Spirit guide him as he shepherds the faithful, and may his pontificate be a source of renewal and unity for the Church.

    May this new week be filled with peace, joy, and the renewed hope that comes from Christ’s Resurrection. 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 🙏🏽

    The entire month of May is dedicated to our beloved Mother Mary, the Mother of God. As we continue to rejoice in the victory of Christ’s Resurrection, we give heartfelt thanks to God for the gift of life and for bringing us safely into the month of May. May this Easter season renew our strength, deepen our faith, and fill our hearts with the peace of the Risen Lord. May our Mother Mary continue to intercede for us and may God’s grace and mercy be with us all during this season of Easter. Wishing us all and our loved ones a joyful, blessed start to the month. Amen 🙏🏽

    HABEMUS PAPAM! A PRAYER FOR OUR HOLY FATHER, POPE LEO XIV

    MEET THE NEW POPE: Pope Leo XIV | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/live-from-st-peters-square-white-smoke-habemus-papam/

    As the Papal Conclave to elect the next Roman Pontiff comes to an end, with profound reverence we give thanks to Almighty God for the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church. Taking the name Pope Leo XIV, he becomes the first American-born pontiff in the Church’s two-millennia history. The announcement was made on May 8, 2025, following the traditional white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the conclusion of the conclave.

    Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, an American and a member of the Order of St. Augustine is known as Pope Leo XIV. A missionary bishop and former Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, Pope Leo XIV has served the Church faithfully in Chiclayo, Peru, and brings with him a pastoral heart deeply shaped by the Gospel and the spirituality of St. Augustine.

    LET US PRAY:

    Almighty God, we thank You for the gift of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. Grant him wisdom, courage, and humility as he leads the Church in truth and love. May the Holy Spirit guide his every word and action, and may he be a bridge of unity for all nations. Through the intercession of Mary, Queen of Peace, strengthen him in his mission to proclaim Christ to the world. Amen 🙏🏽

    Heavenly Father, You have raised Your servant, Pope Leo XIV, to the Chair of Saint Peter. Pour out Your abundant blessings upon him. Through him, guide Your pilgrim Church along the path to Heaven. Grant him wisdom to discern Your will, Courage to fulfill it, And charity to shepherd Your people with the Heart of Christ. In this time of transition, Bring peace to troubled hearts, Joy to those who suffer, And hope to the despairing. May he be a faithful successor to Peter, A humble servant of Your Word, And a fearless herald of Your Divine Mercy and Truth. Strengthen him with the grace of the Holy Spirit, That he may lead the Church in unity, holiness, and fidelity. We entrust him to the maternal care of the Blessed Virgin Mary, And to the prayers of all the saints. Through Christ our Lord. Amen 🙏🏽

    PRAYER FOR THE SOUL OF POPE FRANCIS: With the passing of Pope Francis, let us continue to pray for the eternal repose of his soul. Merciful and loving God, We entrust to You our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis. May he rest in the light of Your presence, where suffering and sorrow are no more, and every tear is wiped away. Comfort all who mourn his passing and raise up shepherds who will continue to guide Your Church in humility and love.

    Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May his gentle soul and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽

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

    Daily Reflections with Philomena | Prayer for the Soul of Pope Francis | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/precious-in-the-sight-of-the-lord-is-the-death-of-his-saints-psalm-11615/

    On this special feast day, as we continue to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, particularly Saint Joseph, Patron of the sick and dying, we pray for the sick and dying and all those who mourn the loss of their loved ones. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, especially for our Holy Father, POPE FRANCIS, all those who died today, and all the faithful departed may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their gentle souls and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯

    “Blessed are those who have died in the Lord; let them rest from their labors for their good deeds go with them.” ~ Rev 14:13

    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 🙏🏽

    Still journeying in the joy of the Easter season, the Church celebrate the memorial of four remarkable saints who, in their unique ways, embodied a deep love for God and a commitment to serve His people: Saint Brendan the Navigator (patron of sailors and travelers), Saint John Nepomucene (patron of confessors and protection against slander), Saint Simon Stock (patron of the Carmelite Order and devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel), and Saint Ubaldus of Gubbio (patron against demonic possession and protection against evil spirits). Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother and these holy saints, we pray today especially for the sick and dying, particularly those suffering from terminal illnesses. We also entrust travelers, the poor, the marginalized, and all those facing persecution to their care. May their lives inspire Christians around the world to walk faithfully with Christ, no matter the cost.

    DAILY REFLECTIONS WITH PHILOMENA | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

    Daily Saints, Holy Mass, Holy Rosary, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Scripture Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/reflections/

    Watch “HOLY MASS ON THE JUBILEE OF THE SICK AND HEALTHCARE WORKERS | Presided by H.E. Most Rev. Rino Fisichella | Live from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican | April 6, 2025” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/06/holy-mass-on-the-jubilee-of-the-sick-and-healthcare-workers/

    THE LITURGICAL YEAR IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/12/03/the-liturgical-year-in-the-catholic-church/

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

    Pray “Holy Rosary for Peace with Pope Francis” | “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song”| “Holy Rosary ALL 20 Mysteries | Memorare Chaplet | Prayer in Difficult Times (Powerful Prayer) | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/30/holy-rosary-for-peace-with-pope-francis/

    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/

    PRAYER FOR PEACE ~ POPE FRANCIS:

    Lord God of peace, hear our prayer!

    A PRAYER FOR PEACE : Lord Jesus Christ, You are the true King of peace. In You alone is found freedom. Please free our world from conflict. Bring unity to troubled nations. Let Your glorious peace reign in every heart. Dispel all darkness and evil. Protect the dignity of every human life. Replace hatred with Your love. Give wisdom to world leaders. Free them from selfish ambition. Eliminate all violence and war. Glorious Virgin Mary, Saint Michael the Archangel, Every Angel and Saint: Please pray for peace. Pray for unity amongst nations. Pray for unity amongst all people. Pray for the most vulnerable. Pray for those suffering. Pray for the fearful. Pray for those most in need. Pray for us all. Jesus, Son of the Living God, have mercy on us. Jesus, hear our prayers. Jesus, I trust in You! Amen 🙏🏽

    Prayers for Peace | https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/prayers-for-peace/

    SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

    Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Friday of the Fourth Week of Easter | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading

    Today’s Bible Readings: Friday of the Fourth Week of Easter | May 16, 2025
    Reading 1, Acts 13:26-33
    Responsorial Psalm, Psalms 2:6-7, 8-9, 10-11ab
    Gospel, John 14:1-6

    Gospel Reading ~ John 14:1-6*

    “I am the way and the truth and the life”

    “Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be. Where I am going you know the way.” Thomas said to him, “Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

    In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus speaks these words of reassurance to His disciples in the context of the last supper, on the evening before his crucifixion, the evening of his betrayal. His disciples needed reassurance. Jesus has announced that one of those at table will betray him; he has been talking about His departure from this world. The tone of the evening is ominous. Jesus senses that His disciples are troubled and fearful. He calls on them to trust in God and to trust in Himself. Sometimes when times are bleak we have to trust in God and in Jesus that all will be well. Jesus goes on to explain why this trust in God is appropriate. Although Jesus is going away and leaving them, he promises to return to them, to come again and to take them to the Father’s house with its many dwelling places. This has been interpreted as referring to Jesus coming to His disciples at the hour of their death, and this is a valid interpretation. However, Jesus will first return to them after He rises from the dead and He will remain with them through the Paraclete, the Holy Spirit. In that sense, the many dwelling places of the Father’s house or household can already be experienced in this earthly life. The community of disciples, the church, is the house or household of God the Father. Within that household, with its many dwelling places, we are all sons and daughters of God, brothers and sisters of Jesus and of each other. In and through this household of faith, the church, we already enjoy a foretaste of eternal life. Dwelling in the house of the Father is not postponed until after death. These are the reassuring words that Jesus speaks to his disciples and to all of us, His disciples today.

    Reflecting further on today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks to the hearts of His disciples and to each of us with great tenderness and reassurance. As He prepares them for His departure, He anticipates their confusion and fear. “Do not let your hearts be troubled,” He says. This is not merely a suggestion to stay calm, but a divine invitation to entrust every anxiety and uncertainty into His hands. Jesus reminds them that just as they have faith in God, they must also place their faith in Him. He reveals a profound truth: He is preparing a place for them in His Father’s house a place of belonging, peace, and eternal communion. When Thomas, in his usual honesty, admits his confusion “Lord, we do not know where you are going” Jesus responds with one of the most foundational statements of Christian faith: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” He is not only the one who shows the path but is the path itself. The Truth is not a concept but a Person. The Life we long for flows from relationship with Him. This Gospel passage challenges us to re-center our lives on Christ. It is through Him alone that we find direction when lost, clarity when confused, and life when we feel spiritually dry. His promise to return and take us to Himself assures us that we are never forgotten. Even in times of darkness, our future in Him is secure.

    Reflecting on today’s first reading, we encounter Saint Paul proclaiming the Gospel in the synagogue at Antioch. He speaks with boldness, reminding the people of the fulfillment of God’s promises through Jesus Christ. Paul lays out the narrative of salvation how Jesus, though innocent, was condemned, crucified, and buried, and how God raised Him from the dead. This message is not just a retelling of events but a testimony of hope and life. Paul emphasizes that what God promised to their ancestors has now been fulfilled in their midst. This is not a distant theological truth; it is a living reality that demands a response. What stands out is Paul’s conviction: “We ourselves are proclaiming this good news to you.” The resurrection of Christ is not a private experience but a public declaration. Like Paul, we are also called to be proclaimers to share with others that God’s promise of salvation is real and has a name: Jesus. The message of Easter does not fade after the liturgical season ends. It remains a daily call to witness that life has conquered death, and that God’s faithfulness spans generations.

    Reflecting on today’s Responsorial Psalm,
    “You are my Son; this day I have begotten you.” These words, echoed both in the Psalm and in Paul’s speech, remind us of the divine authority of Jesus. The psalm proclaims God’s anointed King reigning from Zion, whose rule extends to the ends of the earth. It is a song of divine affirmation and heavenly inheritance. But it also contains a warning to earthly rulers to serve the Lord with reverence and humility. In light of today’s Gospel, this psalm gives depth to Jesus’ identity. He is not only a compassionate friend and guide but also the divine Son with all authority. When we surrender to Him as King and serve Him with joy and reverence, we step into our true identity as heirs with Christ. His rule is not oppressive but liberating marked by mercy, truth, and eternal love.

    Am I truly allowing Christ to be the Way in my life, or merely a way among others? When I feel anxious or uncertain, do I turn to His promise, “Do not let your hearts be troubled”? How am I being a witness to the risen Christ like Paul through my words, actions, and daily choices? Do I proclaim my faith as good news, or do I keep it hidden? Do I live with joyful reverence, recognizing that I serve a King whose reign is rooted in love? Let your heart rest in the assurance of Christ’s love. He is not distant or indifferent to your struggles. He walks the journey with you, and even now, He prepares a place for you in His Father’s house. Follow Him faithfully He is the Way that never leads astray. Amen. 🙏🏽

    As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today and as we all continue to progress through this joyful season of Easter, we are constantly being reminded again and again of the important responsibilities that we have as Christians in proclaiming the truth of the Risen Lord, of everything that He has taught and revealed to us. We should always put our trust in the Lord Who has overcome and conquered death itself, and which even false accusations and persecutions could not keep His truth from being revealed and shown to the world. All of us should never turn away from God, Who is indeed our Way, Truth and Life, the path through Whom we can reach the salvation and grace of God. Without His guidance and constant presence in our life, we may end up being lost and trapped in the darkness and temptations all around us. Let us all therefore do our best so that in everything that we do, we will always put our faith and trust in God, doing whatever we can in order to follow Him and do our part in proclaiming His truth and Good News in our world today. Let us all be exemplary in our lives, in each and every moments that we live, so that by our every actions, words and deeds, and through every interactions we carry out to our fellow brothers and sisters, all of us may be truly blessed by God, strengthened and empowered, in doing all the things that we do daily in life, and in our encounters with our fellow brethren around us. We should always be the courageous and worthy bearers of our Christian faith, doing our best to glorify Him by our lives. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace and may the Risen Lord continue to guide and strengthen us in our journey through life, and may He continue to empower each and every one of us to be His ever courageous and dedicated disciples and followers, in doing our part to proclaim His truth and teachings to the whole world. Let us trust in Him, our Way, our Truth and our Life, so that like St. Paul and the other Apostles and holy saints before us, we may always be faithful and dedicated to the service of God, at all times, for the good and salvation of souls. Amen 🙏🏽

    Lord Jesus, You are the Way that leads us home, the Truth that sets us free, and the Life that renews us each day. Strengthen our faith when we are troubled. Teach us to follow You with trust and humility. May we be bold like Paul in sharing Your message of salvation, and may our lives proclaim Your resurrection in all we do. Rule in our hearts, O King of Glory, and lead us ever closer to the place You have prepared for us. Amen.🙏🏽

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT BRENDAN, ABBOT; SAINT JOHN NEPOMUCENE, PRIEST AND MARTYR; SAINT SIMON STOCK, PRIEST; AND SAINT UBALDUS, BISHOP OF GUBBIO ~ FEAST DAY: MAY 16TH: Still journeying in the joy of the Easter season, the Church celebrate the memorial of four remarkable saints who, in their unique ways, embodied a deep love for God and a commitment to serve His people: Saint Brendan the Navigator (patron of sailors and travelers), Saint John Nepomucene (patron of confessors and protection against slander), Saint Simon Stock (patron of the Carmelite Order and devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel), and Saint Ubaldus of Gubbio (patron against demonic possession and protection against evil spirits). Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother and these holy saints, we pray today especially for the sick and dying, particularly those suffering from terminal illnesses. We also entrust travelers, the poor, the marginalized, and all those facing persecution to their care. May their lives inspire Christians around the world to walk faithfully with Christ, no matter the cost.

    Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | May 16th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

    (Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Brendan, Saint John Nepomucene, Saint Simon Stock, and Saint Ubaldus| https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-may-16th/)

    SAINT BRENDAN, ABBOT (c. 484 – c. 577): Also known as Brendan the Navigator, Saint Brendan of Clonfert was one of the most celebrated early Irish monastic saints and one of the “Twelve Apostles of Ireland.” Born in County Kerry, Ireland, he was entrusted as a child to the care of Saint Ita and later guided by Bishop Erc, who ordained him a priest. Deeply influenced by the teachings of St. Jarlath, Brendan lived as a monk and eventually founded numerous monastic communities, including the famous monastery at Clonfert, which grew to house thousands of monks.

    Saint Brendan is renowned for his legendary sea voyage in search of the “Isle of the Blessed,” an epic spiritual journey described in The Voyage of St. Brendan the Abbot. Sailing with fellow monks in a kind of floating monastery, he is believed to have reached as far as the Canary Islands and possibly even the Americas, centuries before other known explorers. His journey became a powerful symbol of trust in Divine Providence and holy adventure in pursuit of God. He died peacefully around 577 while visiting his sister Brig, an abbess. Saint Brendan is the patron of boatmen, sailors, mariners, travelers, divers, and the dioceses of Clonfert and Kerry.

    PRAYER: Lord, amid the storms of life, help us to trust You completely, as Saint Brendan did on his sacred voyage. May we seek Your kingdom with courage and faith. Amen. 🙏🏽

    SAINT JOHN NEPOMUCENE, PRIEST AND MARTYR (1345–1393): Saint John Nepomucene, also called John of Nepomuk, was a Bohemian priest and scholar who courageously defended the seal of confession. Born in Nepomuk, Bohemia, he was healed miraculously as a child, leading his parents to consecrate him to God. After studying law and theology, he became a well-respected preacher in Prague and eventually Vicar General to the Archbishop.

    In 1393, he resisted King Wenceslaus IV’s attempt to interfere with church affairs and was imprisoned, tortured, and martyred for upholding ecclesiastical authority. According to tradition, the king also demanded John reveal the queen’s confession. John’s refusal to break the sacred seal led to his brutal execution: he was chained, gagged, and thrown into the Moldau River. His body was found with a miraculous glow and is often depicted with seven stars above his head. Canonized in 1729, Saint John is known as the Martyr of the Confessional and patron of confessors, Bohemia, bridges, floods, and against slander.

    PRAYER: O God, who gave Saint John Nepomucene the strength to die rather than betray the seal of confession, help us to reverence Your sacraments and remain faithful to our conscience. May we draw often and fruitfully from the well of Your mercy. Amen. 🙏🏽

    SAINT SIMON STOCK, PRIEST (1165–1265): Born in Kent, England, Saint Simon Stock was drawn to God from a young age. At twelve, he began living as a hermit in the hollow of a tree. Years later, following studies in theology and priestly ordination, he joined the Carmelite Order as it was establishing roots in England. He later became its Prior General and worked to spread the order across Europe, adapting its rule to better serve the needs of the growing community.

    Saint Simon is best known for the vision he received of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who presented to him the Brown Scapular as a sign of her maternal protection. She promised that those who wore it faithfully would not suffer eternal damnation. This promise, known as the Scapular Promise, ignited a powerful devotion that continues to this day. The scapular became a symbol of Marian consecration and a call to a life of prayer and holiness.

    PRAYER: Our Lady of Mount Carmel, through the prayers of Saint Simon Stock, help us to wear your scapular with faith and devotion. May it remind us of your constant intercession and lead us to your Son. Amen. 🙏🏽

    SAINT UBALDUS, BISHOP OF GUBBIO (c. 1084–1160): Saint Ubaldus was born into a noble family in Gubbio, Italy. Orphaned at a young age, he was raised by his uncle, a bishop, who provided him with both spiritual and academic formation. Though he had many opportunities to marry, Ubaldus chose the path of holiness and became a priest. Known for his simplicity and piety, he was later made bishop of Gubbio, where he served with great humility and zeal.

    A member of the Canons Regular of St. Augustine, Saint Ubaldus lived a life of austerity and was renowned for his meekness, even in the face of personal insult. One story recounts how a worker once shoved him into wet cement, yet the bishop made no complaint and offered forgiveness. He also risked his life to bring peace to his city during times of civil unrest. Saint Ubaldus’ incorrupt body remains a testimony to his holiness, and he is invoked especially for protection against evil spirits.

    PRAYER: Heavenly Father, grant us the humility and patience of Saint Ubaldus. Help us to become true peacemakers in our communities, bearing wrongs with gentleness and forgiving with joyful hearts. Amen. 🙏🏽

    Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Brendan, Saint John Nepomucene, Saint Simon Stock, and Saint Ubaldus~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽

    THE HOLY FATHER, POPE FRANCIS’ MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF MAY: For Working Conditions ~ Let us pray that through work, each person might find fulfilment, families might be sustained in dignity, and that society might be humanized.

    PRAYER FOR THE MONTH OF MAY ~ POPE FRANCIS: For Working Conditions ~ Jesus, You knew work in this world, and You understand its hardships and joys… Hear our prayer today. Working is a human trait… Work is sacred… The beauty of the earth and the dignity of work were meant to be united… The earth becomes beautiful when man works… Lord, You see that we believe this with conviction, but we desire even more for it to become a reality among us.

    We are saddened when people can’t find work and lack the dignity of bringing bread to their home. Give us the light of your Spirit, open our hearts, do not let indifference overcome us.
    Help us recover the gift of universal brotherhood. We ask for a heart as big as Jesus’s so we can embrace the call to work to give dignity to people and families.
    Amen 🙏🏽

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

    DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF MAY | MONTH OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY: May is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God and our spiritual Mother. This month invites the faithful to draw closer to Mary through prayer, reflection, and imitation of her virtues especially her humility, obedience, purity, and unwavering faith. As the first and most perfect disciple of Christ, Mary leads us gently but firmly to her Son. Throughout Church history, May has been a time to honor Mary with special devotions such as the Rosary, May Crownings, Marian processions, and prayers like the Litany of Loreto. The Church teaches that Mary, assumed body and soul into Heaven, intercedes for us as Queen of Heaven and Mother of the Church. During this month, we are called to renew our relationship with her and seek her maternal care in our joys, sorrows, and needs. Mary said “yes” to God’s plan with total trust: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). Her faithful surrender encourages us to say “yes” to God’s will in our own lives. As we meditate on the mysteries of the Rosary and contemplate her role in salvation history, we grow in our love for her and our desire to follow Christ more closely.

    In this beautiful month of blooming flowers, may our hearts also blossom with deeper devotion to the Mother of our Savior. Let us bring her our prayers, our homes, and our lives, asking her to accompany us with her love and protection.

    “O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.”

    Hail Mary, full of grace! Teach us to love Jesus as you loved Him. Cover us with your mantle of mercy, and help us to walk always in the light of your Son. Amen 🙏🏽

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

    PRAYER INTENTIONS: Today, as we reflect on Christ’s promise “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life” we lift up our hearts in prayer for all who are sick and dying, especially those battling terminal illnesses or facing death without comfort or companionship. Through the intercession of Saint Brendan the Navigator, Saint John Nepomucene, Saint Simon Stock, and Saint Ubaldus of Gubbio, we entrust to God’s care all travelers and seafarers, that they may be guided and protected on their journeys. We pray for priests and confessors, that they may minister with courage and compassion. We remember the poor, the marginalized, and those facing persecution, asking the Lord to strengthen them with hope. We also pray for those under spiritual attack or suffering from slander and evil, that they may be shielded by divine grace. May the example and prayers of these saints inspire us to persevere in faith, remain steadfast in truth, and walk in the light of Christ, no matter the trials we face.

    LET US PRAY

    My loving Shepherd, You know all things. You know my heart and the difficulties I face in life. Give me the courage I need, dear Lord, to face every temptation to fear with confidence and trust in You. Bring clarity to my mind and peace to my troubled heart. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽

    Heavenly Father, You sent Your Son to show us the way to eternal life, and in Him, we find the fullness of truth and peace. We thank You for the witness of Saint Brendan, Saint John Nepomucene, Saint Simon Stock, and Saint Ubaldus holy men who followed Christ with unwavering faith. Through their intercession, grant us the grace to trust in Your divine plan, to speak the truth in love, and to walk with confidence toward the promises You have made.

    In our doubts, be our assurance; in our suffering, be our strength; and in our journey, be our guide. May our hearts not be troubled, but steadfast in the hope of resurrection and the joy of heaven. We ask this through Christ our Lord.

    We make this prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

    Save us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Brendan, Saint John Nepomucene, Saint Simon Stock, and Saint Ubaldus ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽

    Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day, for the gift of our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV and the immeasurable love shown through His Son, our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. As we continue to rejoice in the glory of the Resurrection, may our hearts remain open to the peace and hope that flow from His victory over sin and death. During this joyful Easter season, we pray that our loving Savior will deepen our faith and draw us closer to the mystery of His Passion, death, and Resurrection. May we walk in the light of His risen life, renewed in spirit and overflowing with grace. Praying for us all and our loved ones today and we pray for journey mercies for all those traveling during this Easter season. As we embrace the blessings of this new month, may God’s abundant grace continue to shower upon us, filling our hearts with peace, joy, and hope in His Resurrection. May this weekend be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ is truly risen! Alleluia! Have a blessed, safe, and grace-filled Friday and joyful Fourth Week of Easter and relaxing weekend 🙏🏽

    Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖

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

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