DailyReflections

Author: Resa

  • MEMORIAL OF SAINT ISIDORE OF SEVILLE, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT ISIDORE OF SEVILLE, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH

    FOURTH WEEK OF LENT

    SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: FEAST DAY ~ APRIL 4, 2025

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT ISIDORE OF SEVILLE, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH | Lives of the Saints | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day/

    STATIONS OF THE CROSS | A JOURNEY WITH CHRIST | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/03/03/stations-of-the-cross/

    FIRST FRIDAYS AND FIRST SATURDAYS DEVOTIONS | First Fridays Devotion: https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/03/first-friday-devotion-to-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus/ [Please see details and prayer links below]

    Greetings and blessings, beloved family and Happy 1st Friday, Fourth Week of Lent!

    Today, the 1st Friday of the month of April is Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The month of April is dedicated to the Holy Eucharist, the greatest gift of Christ to His Church.

    We thank God for the  gift of life and for the gift of the month of April. May this month bring renewal in faith, deepening our journey through Lent and drawing us closer to Christ. May God’s grace guide and strengthen us every day and may His grace and mercy be with us all during this season of our Lenten journey. 🙏🏽

    Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary on EWTN” | “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/2025/04/04/catholic-daily-mass-31/

    “Watch Holy Mass on the 20th Anniversary of the death of Saint John Paul II | Presided over by Cardinal Pietro Parolin | Live from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican | April 2, 2025” | Life of St. John Paul II | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/02/watch-holy-mass-on-the-20th-anniversary-of-the-death-of-saint-john-paul-ii-presided-over-by-cardinal-pietro-parolin-live-from-st-peters-basilica-in-the-vatican-april-2-2025/

    DAY 27: LENTEN PRAYERS AND REFLECTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/04/day-27-lenten-prayers-and-reflections/

    DAILY REFLECTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

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

    LENT: | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/03/03/lent/

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

    WORLD PRAYERS FOR POPE FRANCIS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/02/26/world-prayers-for-pope-francis/

    PRAYER FOR POPE FRANCIS

    “Loving God, we thank you for the unwavering faith and leadership of Pope Francis. As he recovers from his hospitalization, we humbly ask for your healing touch upon his body, your peace upon his mind, and your comfort for his spirit. Grant him strength, renewed energy, and a continued ability to serve your flock with compassion and wisdom. We entrust him to your loving care, and we pray that he may soon be restored to good health, if it be your will. Through Christ our Lord, Amen”🙏🏽

    FIRST FRIDAYS AND FIRST SATURDAYS DEVOTIONS:

    The FIRST FRIDAY DEVOTION is a Catholic practice that involves attending Mass, receiving Holy Communion and praying and adoring before the Blessed Sacrament on the first Friday of each month for nine months in a row. The devotion originated in the 17th century after Jesus appeared to St. Margaret Mary and spoke of His Sacred Heart. Jesus promised that those who receive Holy Communion on the First Fridays of nine consecutive months will receive the grace of final perseverance. The devotion is a way to honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus and to atone for sins. The devotion is also known as the Communions of Reparation to the Sacred Heart or the Nine First Fridays Devotion. The Roman Catholic Church fully approved the devotion. 

    Some elements of the First Fridays Devotion include:

    • Sacramental Confession: A preparation for the devotion 
    • Holy Communion: Received on the first Friday of each month for nine months in a row 
    • Holy Hour: Spent in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament 
    • Prayer for the Holy Father: A prayer for the intentions of the Holy Father 

    The devotion is said to offer many spiritual blessings, including:

    • Increased Grace: The soul is strengthened and intimacy with Christ is deepened through the frequent reception of the Eucharist
    • Inner Peace: Trusting in Jesus’ promises can bring comfort in times of trial
    • Forgiveness and Healing: Reparation for sins can bring peace to the heart and renewal in Christ
    • Final Perseverance: Those who complete the devotion with love and faith are assured of Christ’s presence at the moment of death

    The FIVE FIRST SATURDAYS DEVOTION originated from the 1917 apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Fatima, Portugal. During these apparitions, Our Lady asked for acts of reparation to be made on the first Saturday of five consecutive months, with the intention of atoning for the sins committed against her Immaculate Heart. While the Sacred Heart of Jesus promises abundant blessings, including peace, consolation, and assistance at the hour of death, to those who faithfully observe nine consecutive First Fridays. Similarly, Our Lady extends her maternal protection and the promise of salvation to those who commit to five consecutive First Saturdays in honor of her Immaculate Heart.

    Our Lady promises her assistance and graces especially at the hour of death, as well as peace and consolation in families and eventual salvation for those who faithfully practice the First Five Saturdays devotion. It involves attending Mass, receiving communion, praying the Rosary, and meditating on its mysteries on 5 consecutive first Saturdays with the intention of making reparation to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

    The promises of Mary for the First Five Saturdays devotion:
    * On each First Saturday, after receiving communion, reciting the Rosary, and meditating for 15 minutes on the mysteries of the Rosary, Our Lady promised to assist at the hour of death with all the graces necessary for salvation all those who make this devotion in reparation to Her Immaculate Heart.
    * Our Lady promised to grant peace to families who fulfill this devotion.
    * Those who fulfill the devotion will be consoled by Our Lady and will see Her eventually in heaven.
    * Our Lady promised to assist in the salvation of those who practice this devotion by the graces of Her Immaculate Heart.

    These First Saturday Prayers to the Immaculate Heart of Mary are recommended for those participating in the Five First Saturdays devotion.

    Please see below links for both First Fridays and First Saturdays Devotions:

    First Fridays Devotion: https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/03/first-friday-devotion-to-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus/

    First Fridays and First Saturdays Devotions: https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/03/first-fridays-first-saturdays-devotions/

    https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/02/01/first-fridays-and-first-saturdays-devotions/

    On this special feast day, as we continue our Lenten journey, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, particularly Saint Joseph, Patron of the dying, we pray for the sick and dying and all those who mourn the loss of their loved ones and celebrate their memorial anniversary today. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, and we continue to pray for the repose of the gentle souls of 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 🙏🏽

    THE HOLY FATHER, POPE FRANCIS’ MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL: For the use of the new technologies ~ Let us pray that the use of the new technologies will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times.

    PRAYER OF THE MONTH ~ POPE FRANCIS: Lord, Good Father, as I look at the world and see men and women working in it and beautifying it, a great “Thank You!” springs from my heart. The action of Your Spirit among us encourages us to grow in the progress of science and technology in the service of human dignity for integral and inclusive human development. Because we know You desire the good of all, from the heart of Your Church, Your Son calls us to ensure that technology does not replace “person-to-person” contact, that the virtual does not replace the real, and that social networks do not replace social settings. Help us develop the ability to live wisely, to think deeply, to love generously, without losing heart, promoting scientific and technological growth that increasingly aligns with human development in responsibility, values, and awareness.
    Amen 🙏🏽

    (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/

    A PRAYER TO WALK HUMBLY THROUGH LENT: Father, In Micah 6:8, You say, “O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Today we choose to walk humbly with You. We choose to live by Your Holy Spirit and to follow Your lead. Help us to hear You clearly, for we do not want to walk by pride or self-sufficiency, we want to walk with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen 🙏🏽

    God of goodness and mercy, hear my prayer as I begin this Lenten journey with you. Let me be honest with myself as I look into my heart and soul, noticing the times I turn away from you. Guide me as I humbly seek to repent and return to your love. May humility guide my efforts to be reconciled with you and live forever in your abundant grace. Transform me this Lent, heavenly Father. Give me the strength to commit myself to grow closer to you each day. Amen 🙏🏽

    LENTEN FAST AND ABSTINENCE (Lenten Fast and Abstinence regulations from the USCCB): Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics. In addition, Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence.

    For members of the Latin Catholic Church, the norms on fasting are obligatory from age 18 until age 59. When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal. The norms concerning abstinence from meat are binding upon members of the Latin Catholic Church from age 14 onwards

    Members of the Eastern Catholic Churches are to observe the particular law of their own sui iuris Church. If possible, the fast on Good Friday is continued until the Easter Vigil (on Holy Saturday night) as the “paschal fast” to honor the suffering and death of the Lord Jesus, and to prepare ourselves to share more fully and to celebrate more readily His Resurrection. 🙏🏽

    SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: MEMORIAL OF SAINT ISIDORE OF SEVILLE, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH – FEAST DAY: APRIL 4TH: Today, as we continue our Lenten journey, we honor Saint Isidore of Seville, Bishop and Doctor of the Church, a man of great wisdom, faith, and dedication to the preservation of knowledge. (He is the Patron Saint of schoolchildren, students, scholars, computer technicians, and the internet).

    Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint Isidore of Seville, we pray for all educators, students, and scholars, that they may seek wisdom in truth and use their knowledge for the glory of God. We also pray for those working in technology and communication, that they may use their skills to spread goodness and uphold the dignity of all people. May we, like Saint Isidore, commit ourselves to lifelong learning, faithfulness to the Church, and charity toward those in need.

    Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | April 4th | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

    ( Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Richard of Chichester | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day/)

    SAINT ISIDORE OF SEVILLE, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH (560–636 A.D.): Saint Isidore of Seville was a remarkable scholar, bishop, and teacher who helped preserve the intellectual and spiritual heritage of the Church during a time of great transition. Born in Carthagena, Spain, to noble and pious parents, he and his siblings—Saint Leander, Saint Fulgentius, and Saint Florentina—were all canonized as saints. Educated at the cathedral school in Seville, he developed a love for learning that would shape his lifelong mission.

    Succeeding his brother as Archbishop of Seville around the year 600, Saint Isidore became a great leader of the Spanish Church, fostering unity and bringing the Visigoths back to the Catholic faith from Arianism. His extensive writings, including the Etymologiae, an encyclopedia used for centuries, played a crucial role in preserving classical and Christian knowledge. He also emphasized the importance of education for clergy and laypeople, requiring seminaries to be built in every diocese.

    Saint Isidore was not only an intellectual but also a man of deep charity and humility. He devoted himself to the care of the poor, recognizing that love for God must be expressed in service to others. In his final days, he distributed his wealth to those in need and prepared for his death with prayer and the sacraments. He passed away on April 4, 636, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the greatest scholars and bishops of his time.

    In recognition of his contributions to the Church and society, Saint Isidore was canonized in 1722 by Pope Innocent XIII and later proclaimed a Doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict XIV. Today, he is honored as the patron saint of students, scholars, and all who work with technology and the internet, as his dedication to preserving knowledge continues to inspire generations.

    “Confession heals, Confession justifies, Confession grants pardon of sin, all hope consists in Confession; in Confession, there is a chance for mercy.” ~ Saint Isidore of Seville

    PRAYER: O Lord, You raised Saint Isidore of Seville to be a light of wisdom and a defender of the faith. Through his intercession, bless all who seek knowledge, that they may use their understanding for the good of others and the glory of Your name. Grant that, like Saint Isidore, we may always seek truth, serve with humility, and grow in love for You. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen 🙏🏽

    Saint Isidore of Seville, Pray for us! 🙏🏽

    SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

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

    Today’s Bible Readings: Friday of the Fourth Week of Lent | Friday, April 4, 2025
    Reading 1, Wisdom 2:1a, 12-22
    Responsorial Psalm, Psalms 34:17-18, 19-20, 21, 23
    Gospel, John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30

    Gospel Reading ~ John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30

    “They tried to arrest Him, but his hour had not yet come”

    “Jesus moved about within Galilee; he did not wish to travel in Judea, because the Jews were trying to kill him. But the Jewish feast of Tabernacles was near.    But when his brothers had gone up to the feast, he himself also went up, not openly but as it were in secret. Some of the inhabitants of Jerusalem said, “Is he not the one they are trying to kill? And look, he is speaking openly and they say nothing to him. Could the authorities have realized that he is the Christ? But we know where he is from. When the Christ comes, no one will know where he is from.” So Jesus cried out in the temple area as he was teaching and said, “You know me and also know where I am from. Yet I did not come on my own, but the one who sent me, whom you do not know, is true. I know him, because I am from him, and he sent me.” So they tried to arrest him, but no one laid a hand upon him, because his hour had not yet come.”

    In today’s Gospel reading, our Lord Jesus spoke and elaborated about the challenges and persecutions that He Himself would soon face in Jerusalem, as He embarked on the last part of His earthly ministry. He had to face a lot of hardships and rejection, challenges from the Temple authorities, from the Sanhedrin or the Jewish High Council, many of whose members refused to accept the teachings and the works that the Lord had presented to them. They all believed that their way of observing the Law, their beliefs and their practices are superior than everyone else’s and that they could not have been wrong or mistaken, and hence, they treated the Lord as a great rival to them and a dangerous threat to their privileged existence and status in the community. That was why, they would eventually arrest Him and then condemned Him to death on the Cross through the means of the Romans. Our Lord Jesus speaks of Himself as the one whom God has sent. ‘There is one who sent me and I really came from Him’. He goes on to claim that because He came from God, He knows God. ‘I know Him because I have come from Him and it was He who sent me’. It is only Jesus who can make the claim to know God, because it is only Jesus who, according to John’s Gospel, was with God in the beginning, who came from God to earth and who remains close to the Father’s heart while on earth. It is Jesus who is uniquely placed to make God known. ‘No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father’s heart, who has made Him known’ (Jn. 1:18). It is because Jesus is the only one who can make God fully known that He is at the centre of our faith. We all have a deep desire to see and know God. In John’s Gospel, Philip speaks for us all when he says to Jesus, ‘Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied’ (Jn. 14:8). On that occasion, Jesus had to remind Philip, ‘Whoever has seen me has seen the Father’. Jesus shows us the face of God because He is God in human form. If Jesus shows us the face of God, it is above all the Gospels that show us the face of Jesus. The Gospels are our bread of life because there we meet Jesus who reveals the God who alone can satisfy our deepest hungers.

    Reflecting on the today’s Gospel, we see how Jesus continues His mission amidst rising hostility. The Jewish leaders seek to kill Him, yet He does not shy away from proclaiming the truth. The people are confused about His identity—some recognize His wisdom and authority, yet others doubt because they “know where He is from.” This passage highlights the struggle between human perception and divine revelation. Jesus affirms His divine origin: “I did not come on my own, but the one who sent me, whom you do not know, is true.” This statement calls us to reflect on whether we truly know God. Like the people in Jesus’ time, we can sometimes focus too much on what we think we know, rather than opening our hearts to the deeper mystery of faith. The Gospel also reminds us that God’s plan unfolds according to His divine timing: “His hour had not yet come.” Despite the growing threats against Him, Jesus remains secure in the Father’s will. This teaches us to trust in God’s providence, knowing that no matter what trials we face, He is in control.

    Our first reading today from the Book of Wisdom, describes the plots that the wicked assembled and planned against the faithful servant of God. Today’s reading is a highlight summarising what God’s servants and prophets had to endure during the time of their ministry among the people of God. The sufferings, persecutions, challenges and difficulties that the servants and prophets of God had to endure throughout their ministry, all because of the stubbornness that the people to whom they had been sent to, their refusal to follow the Law of God and their rebelliousness, through which they had gone ever deeper into the path of sin and evil. The Lord nonetheless still loved them all, and patiently helped and guided them back towards Himself, sending to them those servants and messengers to assist and lead them all in the right path. Yet, they often rejected His offer of love and mercy, and many of them preferred to walk down in their own rebellious path. Thus, they persecuted those servants and messengers, making a mockery of their status as God’s beloved people. They were often hated, rejected and ridiculed against, oppressed and persecuted. They were cast out and treated as how foreigners were treated, and even worse than that. No one would hear them even though they spoke God’s words and truth. Those people had closed themselves against God’s words and truth, and then, the Book of Wisdom also spoke of what would happen in time to come, it was also a prophecy of the Messiah and how the people would treat Him just as they had treated the prophets and messengers of God. This was a prophecy as declared in our Gospel reading today, of what was to happen to our Lord Jesus and what He experienced as He ministered among the people of God. He would be condemned to a shameful death by those who could not stand the sight of Him. The chief priests, the Pharisees and the teachers of the Law, as well as members of the Sadducees, all plotted against Him and sought His downfall.

    Reflecting on the first reading, the passage from Wisdom describes how the wicked plot against the just man, testing his faithfulness through suffering. It is a prophecy that foreshadows the Passion of Christ. The enemies of the righteous fail to understand God’s ways, assuming that suffering is a sign of weakness rather than a path to glory. This reading reminds us that true discipleship involves trials. When we stand for righteousness, we may face rejection, just as Jesus did. However, our suffering is not in vain, for God sees and rewards those who remain faithful.

    Reflecting on our Responsorial Psalm, the Psalm reassures us that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted” and “delivers the just from all their troubles.” No matter how difficult our circumstances, God remains near, offering comfort and salvation. Like Jesus, we must trust in the Father’s plan, even in times of suffering. Do I allow my human understanding to limit my faith, or do I trust in the mystery of God’s plan? How do I respond when I face opposition for standing up for my beliefs? In times of distress, do I seek comfort in the presence of God, who is close to the brokenhearted?

    As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, there were indeed lots of tribulations, trials and challenges that the Lord Himself and His servants and messengers had suffered. The same sufferings and trials have also been faced by our predecessors in faith, just as the history of the Church and the story of the many saints and martyrs of the Church can tell us. This is a reminder therefore, that if we want to follow the Lord wholeheartedly and completely as we should, we may have to endure those same sufferings and challenges, trials and difficulties as well. But at the same time, we should not be afraid or fearful because the Lord Himself will be with us, by our side, protecting and guiding us in our respective journeys and paths. In this season of Lent, all of us are given the time, opportunity and choice, and are called to seek the Lord with contrite and open hearts, with minds that are welcoming towards the Lord, and the willingness to listen to Him speaking to us and calling on us to return to Him. In this time of reconciliation and call to repentance, we are all reminded that we are sinners in need of healing and reconciliation with God. May the Lord be with us always, and may He empower each and every one of us to live ever more worthily in His presence, listening to Him and obeying His will in each and every available opportunities. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us the grace to be good examples and role models for one another, in how we live our lives as dedicated Christians. May the Lord continue to guide us in our journey of faith towards Him. May He empower each and every one of us so that we may always be strong and firm in our commitment to live our lives worthily of the Lord, at all times. Let us all continue to seek to glorify the Lord by our lives, by each and every one of our works, actions and deeds. Amen 🙏🏽

    Lord Jesus, You faced rejection and suffering, yet remained faithful to the Father’s will. Strengthen us in times of trial, that we may stand firm in faith and trust in Your divine timing. Open our hearts to truly know You and the One who sent You. May we never turn away from the truth, but embrace Your wisdom and love. Let us strive to deepen our faith and trust in God’s plan. Even when the world misunderstands or opposes us, we can take refuge in the promise that God is close to those who follow Him. May we remain steadfast in faith, just as Christ did, knowing that His grace sustains us. Amen🙏🏽

    DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF APRIL | MONTH OF HOLY EUCHARIST: April is dedicated to the Holy Eucharist, the greatest gift of Christ to His Church. In the Eucharist, Jesus is truly present Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity offering Himself as the Bread of Life. This month invites us to deepen our love and reverence for the Eucharist, especially as we approach Holy Week and Easter, celebrating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord. The Eucharist was instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper when He said, “Take and eat; this is My Body… Drink from it, all of you, for this is My Blood of the Covenant” (Matthew 26:26-28). In receiving the Eucharist, we are united with Christ and His Church. It is the source of our strength and the culmination of our salvation, as Christ Himself said in John 6:51, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.” As we journey through Lent, we are called to renew our reverence for the Eucharist. During Holy Week, we remember that Christ instituted this sacrament on Holy Thursday, offering us a way to remain in union with Him. Let us take this opportunity to attend Mass regularly, spend time in Eucharistic adoration, and reflect on the mystery of Christ’s presence in the Blessed Sacrament.

    In this season of penance and reflection, may our devotion to the Eucharist strengthen our commitment to living as true disciples of Christ, leading us to the joy of Easter and the Resurrection.

    O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Lord Jesus, You have given Yourself to us in the Eucharist. May we receive You with reverence and love, and let Your grace transform us this Lenten season and always. Amen 🙏🏽

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

    PRAYER INTENTIONS: We pray for bishops and clergy, that they may lead the Church with wisdom and holiness, following the example of Sti Isidore of Seville. May they remain steadfast in their mission, guiding the faithful with love and truth. Through the intercession of St. Isidore of Seville, the Patron Saint of schoolchildren, students, scholars, computer technicians, and the internet, we pray for the intention of our Holy Father on this month of April – For the use of the new technologies. Let us pray that the use of the new technologies will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times. For those who suffer for righteousness, especially those who are mocked or persecuted for their faith, may they find strength in Christ, who endured opposition yet remained faithful to the Father’s will.

    We lift up the brokenhearted and all who carry heavy burdens, that they may experience the Lord’s comforting presence and trust in His divine plan. May those struggling with doubt open their hearts to God’s truth and be filled with His light. Amen 🙏🏽

    Thank you 🙏🏽

    Let Us Pray:

    My hidden Lord, You came to reveal to all people Your burning love and invitation to eternal life. Please come and dwell with me during my journey through life, and open my mind and heart to all that You wish to reveal. May I know You fully and follow You to the Promised Land of Heaven. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽

    Lord God, You sent Your Son to teach us the way of truth, yet He was rejected by those who refused to see beyond their own understanding. Grant us the grace to recognize Your presence in our lives and to trust in Your divine plan, even when we do not fully comprehend it. Strengthen us to stand firm in faith when faced with trials, knowing that You are always near to the brokenhearted and that no suffering goes unseen by You.

    Through the intercession of Saint Isidore of Seville, Bishop and Doctor of the Church, inspire us to seek righteousness, defend the faith with courage, and serve others with love. May our lives reflect Your goodness, and may we never be afraid to follow You wholeheartedly. Guide our hearts, Lord, that we may always desire to see You more clearly, love You more dearly, and follow You more nearly, day by day.

    Save us Savior of the world. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Joseph and Saint Isidore of Seville, Bishop and Doctor of the Church ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽

    Thanking God for the gift of this day and praying for us all during this season of Lent, let us be renewed by prayer, fasting, and giving to the poor. We pray for justice, peace, love and unity in our families and our world. May this Lenten season deepen our trust in God’s providence and open our hearts to His transforming grace. May God keep us all safe and well during these challenging times and may this season of Lent bring us all true salvation in Christ as we remain united in peace, love and faith. Have a blessed, safe and grace-filled and fruitful fourth Week of Lent and relaxing weekend ~ Amen 🙏🏽

    Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖

    DAILY REFLECTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

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

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

  • SAINTS OF THE DAY: APRIL 4TH

    SAINTS OF THE DAY: APRIL 4TH

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT ISIDORE OF SEVILLE, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH – FEAST DAY: As Today, we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Isidore of Seville, Bishop and Doctor of the Church. He’s the Patron Saint of Student and was more recently proposed as a Patron Saint of Internet users, because of his determination to use the world’s accumulated knowledge for the service of God’s glory. He is also the patron saint of computer users, computer technicians and programmers (all electronic patronages are unofficial). Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Isidore of Seville and all the Saints on this feast day, we humbly pray for the salvation of all  Christians and particularly pray for all students and that all those who use the internent, may benefit from the blessing of technology and continue to use it faithfully and appropriately for various purposes as well as spreading the good news of the Lord through hope, love, charity and faith during these incredibly challenging times. May the name of the Lord be praised forever and ever… Amen🙏

    Almighty and eternal God, who hast created us in Thy image and hast bidden us to seek after all that is good, true, and beautiful, especially in the divine person of Thy only-begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, grant we beseech Thee that, through the intercession of Saint Isidor, bishop and doctor, during our journeys through the internet we will direct our hands and eyes only to that which is pleasing to Thee and treat with charity and patience all souls whom we encounter. Through Jesus Christ our Lord… Amen🙏

    “Confession heals, Confession justifies, Confession grants pardon of sin, all hope consists in Confession; in Confession there is a chance for mercy.”  ~ Saint Isidore of Seville

    “The suffering of adversity does not degrade you but exalts you. Human tribulation teaches you, it does not destroy you. The more we are afflicted in this world, the greater is our assurance for the next. The more we sorrow in the present,. ..the greater will be our joy in the future.” ~ Saint Isidore of Seville

    SAINT ISIDORE OF SEVILLE, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH: St. Isidore of Seville (560 – 636 A.D.) was a bishop and scholar who helped the Church preserve its own traditions, and the heritage of western civilization, in the early middle ages. He succeeded his brother St. Leander as Archbishop of Seville, was one of the great bishops of the seventh century. He was proficient in all brances of knowledge and was regarded as one of the most learned men of his time. St. Isidore was born in Carthagena, Spain, in approximately 560 to noble and pious parents, Severinus and Theodora, illustrious for their virtue. After the example of their parents, he, as well as his two brothers, Leander and Fulgentius, who became bishops, and his sister Florentina, a nun – were all later canonized as saints along with him. From his youth he consecrated himself to the service of the Church and prepared himself for his sacred ministry by virtue and learning. St. Isidore received his early education at the cathedral school in Seville where a group of learned men taught classical education, among them was his brother Leander, the Archbishop of Seville. The cathedral school was the first of its kind in the country and St. Isidore excelled in his studies there. As the Archbishop of Seville, Leander was an important influence on his younger brother, helping Isidore develop a commitment to study, prayer, and intense work for the good of the Church. St. Isidore became a man of great learning, zeal, piety, and apostolic endeavor, he joined his brother’s mission and assisted his brother in converting the Visigoths from the Arian heresy who had invaded Spain. When St. Leander died around the year 600, his brother, St. Isidore succeeded him as Seville’s archbishop, leading his diocese for nearly 40 years. St. Isidore inherited his brother’s responsibility for Church affairs in an intense period of change, as the institutions of the Western Roman Empire gave way to the culture of the barbarian tribes.

    St. Isidore was an important saint for his time. He was one of the most learned men of the 6th century and is considered the last of the early Church Fathers. For the good of the Church and civilization, St. Isidore was determined to preserve the wisdom and knowledge of the past, maintaining the fruitful synthesis of classical Roman culture and Christian faith. He was a prolific writer on the sciences and the classics which in effect helped preserve western civilization during the early middle ages following the barbarian invasions. He composed history books, a dictionary with a structure akin to a database, and an encyclopedia which was used for nine centuries. St. Isidore was also intent on preventing false teachings from shattering the unity of the Church in Spain. He reunited Spain after the barbarian onslaught, making it a center of culture and learning. He is regarded as the great restorer of the Spanish Church after the Visigoths returned to the Catholic faith. He also contributed greatly to the development of Spain’s liturgy. He presided over the fourth provincial council of Toledo (633), the most important in Spanish history. He required seminaries to be built in every diocese, wrote a rule for religious orders, and founded schools that taught every branch of learning. Spain then became a model for similar renewal in other European countries. Responsible above all for the good of the Church, St. Isidore also sought the common good by encouraging study and development in areas such as law, medicine, foreign languages, and philosophy. He compiled the “Etymologiae,” the first encyclopedia written from a Catholic perspective. Under Isidore’s leadership, a series of local councils solidified the orthodoxy of the Spanish Church against errors about Christ and the Trinity. Systematic and extensive education of the clergy was stressed as a necessary means of guarding the faithful against false doctrine.

    Prolific in his writings and and diligent in governing the Church, St. Isidore did not neglect the service of those in need. “Indeed, just as we must love God in contemplation, so we must love our neighbor with action,” he declared. “It is therefore impossible to live without the presence of both the one and the other form of life, nor can we live without experiencing both the one and the other.” In the last months of his life, St. Isidore offered a moving testament to these words, intensifying his charitable outreach to the poor, his charities became more profuse than ever. Crowds of people in need flocked to his residence from far and wide, as the bishop offered his final works of mercy on earth. Perceiving his end approaching he went to church, received Holy Communion, remitted all the debts that were due to him, and caused his money to be distributed to the poor. He then returned home and calmly expired four days later, on April 4 of the year 636 after ruling his see for almost 40 years. In 653, less than two decades after his death, a council of bishops in Spain acclaimed St. Isidore as “an illustrious teacher of our time and the glory of the Catholic Church.” He is regarded as being among the last of the early Church Fathers, who combined Christian faith and classical education. St. Gregory the Great was one of his personal friends. Pope Innocent XIII canonized him in 1722 and for his great learning and written works he was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict XIV. St. Isidore of Seville is the Patron Saint of schoolchildren, students, computer technicians, computer users; computers and the internet. He’s a patron saint of Internet users, because of his determination to use the world’s accumulated knowledge for the service of God’s glory.

    “Confession heals, Confession justifies, Confession grants pardon of sin, all hope consists in Confession; in Confession there is a chance for mercy.”  ~ Saint Isidore of Seville

    PRAYER: Lord, hear our prayers, which we offer on the commemoration of St. Isidore. May Your Church be instructed by his teaching and benefit from his intercession. Amen. Saint Isidore of Seville ~ Pray for us🙏

  • Catholic Daily Mass

    Catholic Daily Mass

    Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary on the Fourth Week of Lent | April 4, 2025 on EWTN” |

    Watch “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | April 4, 2025 |

    Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | April 4, 2025 |

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

  • DAY 27: LENTEN PRAYERS AND REFLECTIONS

    DAY 27: LENTEN PRAYERS AND REFLECTIONS

    Day Twenty-Seven: Led by Christ
    Friday, Fourth Week of Lent – April 4, 2025

    Scripture Passage:
    “You know me and also know where I am from. Yet I did not come on my own, but the one who sent me, whom you do not know, is true. I know him, because I am from him, and he sent me.” (John 7:28–29)

    Opening Reflection:
    Life is a journey, much like the Israelites’ time in the desert. At times, the road seems clear, and at other moments, we struggle to see where God is leading us. The Feast of Tabernacles, during which Jesus spoke in the Temple, reminded the Jewish people of their ancestors’ journey through the wilderness. In the same way, Jesus reminds us today that He is with us, guiding us through the uncertainties of life. But do we recognize His presence, or do we fail to see Him because He does not come as we expect?

    Meditative Reflection:
    Jesus entered Jerusalem for the Feast of Tabernacles in secret, revealing Himself gradually to those willing to see and believe. Many of His listeners remained blind to His identity, rejecting the truth before them. This speaks to our own spiritual journey. Often, God’s guidance is not loud or obvious. He walks with us in silence, waiting for us to open our hearts.

    Like the Israelites wandering in tents, we are pilgrims on a journey, moving toward our eternal home. But the journey is not always easy. Fear, doubt, and distractions can blind us to Christ’s presence, just as some in the Temple failed to recognize Him. Yet, those who trust in Him find strength, just as Saint Joseph faithfully followed God’s call, even in uncertainty. Joseph did not need grand signs; he simply trusted, obeyed, and protected the treasures entrusted to him—Jesus and Mary. His life reminds us that recognizing God’s presence often requires quiet faithfulness, not dramatic revelations.

    Are we willing to follow Christ, even when He leads us through the unknown? Are we attentive to His quiet voice, guiding us through our daily struggles?

    Reflection Questions:
    Do I recognize God’s presence in my daily life, even when He seems hidden? Am I willing to trust and follow Christ, even when the path ahead is unclear? What distractions or fears keep me from seeing His guidance?

    Lenten Question:
    Q: Why does Jesus sometimes seem hidden from us?
    A: Jesus allows us to seek Him in faith, drawing us deeper into trust and spiritual maturity. He is always present but reveals Himself fully to those who open their hearts and seek Him in prayer, scripture, and the sacraments.

    Lenten Action:
    Spend time in silent prayer today, asking God to reveal His presence in your life. Reflect on Saint Joseph’s trust in God and seek to imitate his quiet faithfulness.

    Concluding Prayer:
    Lord Jesus, You walk with me on this journey of life, even when I fail to see You. Open my eyes to Your presence and teach me to trust You more deeply. Like Saint Joseph, may I follow Your guidance with a heart full of faith. Lead me always to the Promised Land of Heaven, where I may dwell with You forever. Amen.

    Resources for Lenten Prayers and Reflections:

    Daily Saints and Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

    Lenten Reflections | EWTN | https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/reflections/lent

    Lenten Prayers and Daily Reflections | My Catholic Life | https://mycatholic.life/lent-prayers-reflections/

  • SAINTS OF THE DAY: 3rd APRIL

    SAINTS OF THE DAY: 3rd APRIL

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT RICHARD OF CHICHESTER, BISHOP – FEAST DAY: As we continue to rejoice in the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, today, we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Richard of Chichester, Bishop. He’s the Patron Saint of Coachmen; Diocese of Chichester; Sussex, England. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Richard of Chichester and all the Saints on this feast day, we humbly pray for all Christians, we pray for the sick and dying, we particularly pray for those who are sick with terminal diseases, may God in His infinite grace and mercy grant them His divine healing and intervention, we pray for persecuted Christians and for all Christians as we reflect on the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ during this Easter season 🙏

    SAINT RICHARD OF CHICHESTER, BISHOP: St. Richard of Chichester (1197-1253), also known as St. Richard de Wyche, was born in 1197 in Worcestershire, England to a land-owning squire. His father died when he was young. St. Richard and his elder brother were left orphans while still very young, causing the family to suffer hardship for many years. His brother was imprisoned as a result of their property’s unpaid debts. The situation became dire enough for Richard to suspend his studies which he loved to take over the family estates and make them profitable again. In farming his brother’s impoverished estate,  his brother, in gratitude for Richard’s successful labors, proposed to turn over to him all his lands; but he refused both the estates and the offer of a brilliant marriage, to study for the priesthood at Oxford. While studing at Oxford for the priesthood, he was so poor that he and two companions shared a set of clothes which they took turns wearing to class. He obtained degrees at the universities in Paris and Bologna before being appointed as the Chancellor of Oxford University in 1235. Saint Richard was appointed Chancellor for his learning and piety and afterwards chancellor of his diocese by Saint Edmund Rich, Archbishop of Canterbury, to whom he was a faithful companion and advisor. Years later St. Richard was ordained the Bishop of Chichester. In this position he entered into power struggles with King Henry III, who withheld his diocesan revenues and blocked his access to the cathedral. The new Chancellor stood by the Saint in his long contest with the king, and then accompanied him into exile in France, in the Abbey of Pontigny. After Saint Edmund’s death there, he studied theology in Orleans before returning to England to toil as a simple parish priest. He was, however, soon elected by the Canons of Chichester, when their see became vacant, for their Bishop. This election greatly displeased the king, who had nominated another candidate whom the Canons judged unworthy. The king in revenge refused to recognize the election, and seized the revenues of the see. Thus Saint Richard found himself fighting the same battle in which Saint Edmund had died.

    St. Richard went to Lyons, where he was consecrated bishop by Innocent IV in 1245, and returning to England he exercised fully his episcopal rights despite his poverty and the king’s hostility, and thoroughly reformed his see. Young and old loved Saint Richard, and after two years his revenues were restored. To feed the poor and heal the sick, he gave all he had and worked miracles; and when the rights or the sanctity of the Church were concerned, he was inexorable. A priest of noble blood polluted his office by sin; St. Richard deprived him of his benefice, and refused the king’s petition in his favor. On the other hand, when a knight violently imprisoned a priest, St. Richard compelled the knight to walk around the priest’s church with the same log of wood on his neck to which he had chained him. And when the burgesses of Lewes tore a criminal from the church and hanged him, St. Richard made them dig up the body from its unconsecrated grave, and bear it back to the sanctuary they had violated.  The Pope commissioned St. Richard to preach a crusade against the Saracens. In fulfilling this mission he fell sick of fever, which was the forerunner of his death in 1253. He died surrounded by his closest friends at about 56 years of age. He was buried in the Chichester Cathedral and his shrine became a popular place of pilgrimage before being destroyed by King Henry VIII. St. Richard had many accomplishments as bishop, including establishing greater order and reverence to the liturgy, vigorously defending the rights of the Church, assisting the poor and the oppressed, and preaching a crusade against the Saracens at the request of the Pope. St. Richard was canonized in 1262 by Pope Urban IV and his feast day is April 3rd. He’s the Patron Saint of Coachmen; Diocese of Chichester; Sussex, England.

    “O Dear Lord, three things I pray: to see you more clearly, to love you more dearly and follow you more nearly, day by day.”

    “Satisfaction consists in the cutting off of the causes of the sin. Thus, fasting is the proper antidote to lust; prayer to pride, to envy, anger and sloth; alms to covetousness”. ~ St. Richard of Chichester

    PRAYER: Lord Jesus Christ, I thank You for all the blessings You have given me, and for all the sufferings and shame You have endured for me, on which account that pitiable cry of sorrow was Thine: ” Behold and see, if there was any sorrow like unto My sorrow!” ” You know, Lord, how willing I should be to bear insult, and pain, and death for You; therefore have mercy on me, for to You, I commend my spirit.”… Amen.

    God, You made St. Richard an outstanding exemplar of Divine love and the Faith that conquers the world, and added him to the roll of saintly pastors. Grant by his intercession that we may persevere in Faith and love and become sharers of his glory. Amen. Saint Richard of Chichester ~ Pray for us🙏

  • MEMORIAL OF SAINT RICHARD OF CHICHESTER, BISHOP |

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT RICHARD OF CHICHESTER, BISHOP |

    FOURTH WEEK OF LENT

    SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: FEAST DAY ~ APRIL 3, 2025

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT RICHARD OF CHICHESTER, BISHOP | Lives of the Saints | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day/

    Greetings and blessings, beloved family and Happy Thursday, Fourth Week of Lent!

    We thank God for the  gift of life and for the gift of the month of April. May this month bring renewal in faith, deepening our journey through Lent and drawing us closer to Christ. May God’s grace guide and strengthen us every day and may His grace and mercy be with us all during this season of our Lenten journey. 🙏🏽

    Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary on EWTN” | “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/2025/04/03/catholic-daily-mass-30/

    “Watch Holy Mass on the 20th Anniversary of the death of Saint John Paul II | Presided over by Cardinal Pietro Parolin | Live from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican | April 2, 2025” | Life of St. John Paul II | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/02/watch-holy-mass-on-the-20th-anniversary-of-the-death-of-saint-john-paul-ii-presided-over-by-cardinal-pietro-parolin-live-from-st-peters-basilica-in-the-vatican-april-2-2025/

    DAY 26: LENTEN PRAYERS AND REFLECTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/03/day-26-lenten-prayers-and-reflections/

    DAILY REFLECTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

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

    LENT: | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/03/03/lent/

    STATIONS OF THE CROSS | A JOURNEY WITH CHRIST | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/03/03/stations-of-the-cross/

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

    WORLD PRAYERS FOR POPE FRANCIS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/02/26/world-prayers-for-pope-francis/

    PRAYER FOR POPE FRANCIS

    “Loving God, we thank you for the unwavering faith and leadership of Pope Francis. As he recovers from his hospitalization, we humbly ask for your healing touch upon his body, your peace upon his mind, and your comfort for his spirit. Grant him strength, renewed energy, and a continued ability to serve your flock with compassion and wisdom. We entrust him to your loving care, and we pray that he may soon be restored to good health, if it be your will. Through Christ our Lord, Amen”🙏🏽

    On this special feast day, as we continue our Lenten journey, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, particularly Saint Joseph, Patron of the dying, we pray for the sick and dying and all those who mourn the loss of their loved ones and celebrate their memorial anniversary today. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, and we continue to pray for the repose of the gentle souls of 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 🙏🏽

    THE HOLY FATHER, POPE FRANCIS’ MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL: For the use of the new technologies ~ Let us pray that the use of the new technologies will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times.

    PRAYER OF THE MONTH ~ POPE FRANCIS: Lord, Good Father, as I look at the world and see men and women working in it and beautifying it, a great “Thank You!” springs from my heart. The action of Your Spirit among us encourages us to grow in the progress of science and technology in the service of human dignity for integral and inclusive human development. Because we know You desire the good of all, from the heart of Your Church, Your Son calls us to ensure that technology does not replace “person-to-person” contact, that the virtual does not replace the real, and that social networks do not replace social settings. Help us develop the ability to live wisely, to think deeply, to love generously, without losing heart, promoting scientific and technological growth that increasingly aligns with human development in responsibility, values, and awareness.
    Amen 🙏🏽

    (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/

    A PRAYER TO WALK HUMBLY THROUGH LENT: Father, In Micah 6:8, You say, “O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Today we choose to walk humbly with You. We choose to live by Your Holy Spirit and to follow Your lead. Help us to hear You clearly, for we do not want to walk by pride or self-sufficiency, we want to walk with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen 🙏🏽

    God of goodness and mercy, hear my prayer as I begin this Lenten journey with you. Let me be honest with myself as I look into my heart and soul, noticing the times I turn away from you. Guide me as I humbly seek to repent and return to your love. May humility guide my efforts to be reconciled with you and live forever in your abundant grace. Transform me this Lent, heavenly Father. Give me the strength to commit myself to grow closer to you each day. Amen 🙏🏽

    LENTEN FAST AND ABSTINENCE (Lenten Fast and Abstinence regulations from the USCCB): Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics. In addition, Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence.

    For members of the Latin Catholic Church, the norms on fasting are obligatory from age 18 until age 59. When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal. The norms concerning abstinence from meat are binding upon members of the Latin Catholic Church from age 14 onwards

    Members of the Eastern Catholic Churches are to observe the particular law of their own sui iuris Church. If possible, the fast on Good Friday is continued until the Easter Vigil (on Holy Saturday night) as the “paschal fast” to honor the suffering and death of the Lord Jesus, and to prepare ourselves to share more fully and to celebrate more readily His Resurrection. 🙏🏽

    SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: MEMORIAL OF SAINT RICHARD OF CHICHESTER, BISHOP – FEAST DAY: APRIL 3RD Today, as we continue our Lenten journey,, we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Richard of Chichester, Bishop, a model of holiness, charity, and unwavering faith. (He is the Patron Saint of Coachmen, the Diocese of Chichester, and Sussex, England).

    Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint Richard of Chichester, we pray for all bishops and clergy, that they may lead the Church with wisdom and holiness. We also pray for the sick, especially those suffering from terminal illnesses, that they may receive God’s healing grace. May we, like Saint Richard, strive for righteousness, defend the faith, and grow in deeper love for God.

    Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | April 3rd | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

    (Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Richard of Chichester | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day/)

    SAINT RICHARD OF CHICHESTER, BISHOP (1197–1253): Saint Richard of Chichester, also known as Saint Richard de Wyche, was born in Worcestershire, England, in 1197. Orphaned at a young age, he and his brother suffered financial hardship. Richard took on the responsibility of restoring their family estate, but despite his brother’s gratitude and offer of inheritance, he chose a higher calling—to study for the priesthood.

    He pursued theological studies at Oxford, Paris, and Bologna, excelling in academics despite extreme poverty, even sharing a single set of clothes with his companions. His brilliance and piety earned him the position of Chancellor of Oxford University in 1235. He later became Chancellor to Saint Edmund Rich, Archbishop of Canterbury, and remained his devoted friend even through exile.

    Richard’s deep commitment to justice and holiness led him to be elected Bishop of Chichester. However, his appointment was opposed by King Henry III, who withheld church revenues and denied him access to the cathedral. Undeterred, Richard remained faithful to his calling, ministering as a simple priest while enduring hardships. Eventually, Pope Innocent IV upheld his rightful position and consecrated him as bishop.

    As Bishop of Chichester, Saint Richard reformed the diocese, upheld church laws, defended the rights of the clergy, and cared deeply for the poor and sick. He was known for his strict discipline, humility, and unwavering faith. He once refused a king’s plea to reinstate a sinful priest and upheld the dignity of the Church by ensuring justice was served against those who desecrated sacred places.

    In his later years, he was entrusted by the Pope to preach a crusade against the Saracens, but his rigorous mission took a toll on his health. He fell gravely ill and died on April 3, 1253, at the age of 56. His remains were enshrined at Chichester Cathedral, becoming a revered pilgrimage site until it was destroyed during the English Reformation.

    Saint Richard was canonized in 1262 by Pope Urban IV. His legacy as a model of faith, perseverance, and pastoral care continues to inspire Christians today.

    “O Dear Lord, three things I pray: to see you more clearly, to love you more dearly, and to follow you more nearly, day by day.”

    “Satisfaction consists in the cutting off of the causes of sin. Thus, fasting is the proper antidote to lust; prayer to pride, envy, anger, and sloth; alms to covetousness.” ~ St. Richard of Chichester

    PRAYER: Lord Jesus Christ, you called Saint Richard of Chichester to serve Your Church with unwavering faith and charity. Grant that through his intercession, we may grow in holiness, remain steadfast in faith, and love You above all things. May we, like him, uphold justice, care for the poor, and remain faithful to Your divine will.

    Saint Richard of Chichester, pray for us. Amen 🙏🏽

    SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

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

    Today’s Bible Readings: Thursday of the Fourth Week of Lent | Thursday, April 3, 2025
    Reading 1, Exodus 32:7-14
    Responsorial Psalm, Psalms 106:19-20, 21-22, 23
    Gospel, John 5:31-47

    Gospel Reading ~ John 5:31-47

    “The works that the Father gave me to accomplish, these works that I perform testify on my behalf that the Father has sent me.”

    “Jesus said to the Jews: “If I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is not true. But there is another who testifies on my behalf, and I know that the testimony he gives on my behalf is true. You sent emissaries to John, and he testified to the truth. I do not accept human testimony, but I say this so that you may be saved. He was a burning and shining lamp, and for a while you were content to rejoice in his light. But I have testimony greater than John’s. The works that the Father gave me to accomplish, these works that I perform testify on my behalf that the Father has sent me. Moreover, the Father who sent me has testified on my behalf. But you have never heard his voice nor seen his form, and you do not have his word remaining in you, because you do not believe in the one whom he has sent. You search the Scriptures, because you think you have eternal life through them; even they testify on my behalf. But you do not want to come to me to have life. “I do not accept human praise; moreover, I know that you do not have the love of God in you. I came in the name of my Father, but you do not accept me; yet if another comes in his own name, you will accept him. How can you believe, when you accept praise from one another and do not seek the praise that comes from the only God? Do not think that I will accuse you before the Father: the one who will accuse you is Moses, in whom you have placed your hope. For if you had believed Moses, you would have believed me, because he wrote about me. But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe my words?”

    In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus refers to John the Baptist as a lamp alight and shining and declares that for a time people were content to enjoy the light that he gave. Jesus will go on to say in this Gospel of John, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life’. John the Baptist may be a lamp who gives off some light, but only Jesus is the true light. Jesus is declared to be the light of the world. Jesus does not only reflect the light of God; He is the light of God. People like John the Baptist have brought something of God’s light to others but Jesus alone is the light of God. We all need lamps as we go through life, people like John the Baptist reveal the light of God’s presence to us in some way. We are all called to be a lamp in that sense. If we are to be a lamp for others, we need to keep turning towards Jesus the true light. This activity of turning to Jesus the true light lasts a life-time. In various ways we can turn away from this light of God that shines so brilliantly through the person of Jesus. We can turn towards the darkness, in some form or other, as we face trials and tribulations in the world. When that happens, we need to keep turning back towards Jesus, the true light who is always turned towards us. Only then can we live out our calling to be a lamp alight and shining. When we keep turning towards the light, we can become a light for others. In another of the Gospels, Jesus speaks of God who ‘makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good’. God has given Jesus, His Son, to all people, without distinction or discrimination. Our calling is to open our lives to God’s light shining through God’s Son and, like John the Baptist, to reflect something of this light to others, especially to those who live in darkness and the shadow of death.

    Reflecting on the Gospel reading, Jesus confronts the unbelief of the religious leaders, emphasizing that the testimony of John the Baptist, the works He performs, and the Scriptures all point to Him as the fulfillment of God’s promise. Yet, their hearts remain hardened because they seek human approval rather than divine truth. This passage challenges us to examine where we seek validation—do we prioritize God’s truth over worldly recognition? Jesus reminds us that faith is not merely about knowing Scripture but about encountering Him personally. True belief requires openness to Christ’s presence in our lives, allowing His words and works to transform our hearts.

    In our first reading today from the Book of Exodus, the Lord speaks to Moses at the time after He has revealed His Law and the Ten Commandments to Moses at Mount Sinai. At that time, Moses spent forty days with the Lord atop the mountain, listening to Him and receiving from Him the extensive set of laws and guidance meant to be passed to the people of Israel, as a guide and help for all of them to remain true to the path of righteousness. But the people thinking that Moses had perished on the mountain quickly lost their trust and faith in the Lord, and forced Aaron to craft for them a great golden calf idol to worship as god over them. This is the fundamental sin of idolatry and  they committed other grievous sins against the Lord, when God had been so patient in loving them and caring for them. Yet, Moses does not give up on the people, but stepped in and pleads with God on behalf of God’s people when He wanted to destroy all the people as was just and right for Him to do, and Moses asked the Lord to withhold His anger and judgment, reasoning with Him and reminding Him of the constant love that He has shown to the people. God hears Moses’ prayer of pardon; God responds to Moses’ plea. Because of Moses’ prayer there is reconciliation between God and His people. If Moses worked to reconcile God’s people to God, Jesus did so to an even fuller degree. Saint Paul declares, ‘God reconciled us to Himself through Christ… in Christ God was reconciling the world to Himself’. The work of Moses pointed ahead to the even greater work of Jesus. That is why Jesus can say in the Gospel reading, ‘if you really believed Moses, you would believe me too’. There is continuity between Moses and Jesus, but, according to John’s Gospel, Jesus brings Moses’ work to completion. As the Prologue to that Gospel states, ‘the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ’. Jesus is the fullest revelation of God’s gracious and reconciling love possible in human form.

    Reflecting on the first reading, the story of the golden calf reveals how quickly the Israelites turned away from God, despite witnessing His mighty works. Their impatience and lack of faith led them to idolatry, provoking God’s righteous anger. However, Moses intercedes on their behalf, pleading for God’s mercy. This moment highlights both the justice and the mercy of God—He is angered by sin, yet He is also willing to relent when approached with sincere intercession. Moses’ role foreshadows Christ, our true mediator, who continuously intercedes for us before the Father. It is a reminder that even in our failures, God is always ready to extend His mercy when we turn back to Him with contrite hearts.

    Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, the Psalmist recalls Israel’s sin and God’s great mercy. They exchanged the glory of God for a lifeless idol, forgetting the One who had rescued them. Yet, Moses’ intercession saved them from destruction. This psalm invites us to reflect on our own lives—what “golden calves” do we turn to instead of trusting in God? It also reassures us that God’s mercy is always available. When we falter, we can call upon Him with repentance, trusting that He will remember us in His favor.

    Have I placed my faith in Christ, or do I rely more on my own understanding and human approval? Do I approach Scripture with an open heart, allowing it to transform me, or do I merely read it without truly seeking God? Like the Israelites, are there things in my life that I prioritize over God? Am I quick to forget His blessings and turn to my own ways? Today, how can I shift my focus from seeking human validation to seeking God’s truth?

    As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we are all called to listen to the Lord and to follow Him, cease our rebellion and disobedience against Him. He has given us many opportunities to return to Him and to be reconciled to Him. Let us all make good use of the remaining time of Lent to prepare ourselves, not just physically but also spiritually and mentally, so that we may be more attuned to the Lord, be more ready and prepared to live in accordance with God’s path. May the Lord hence guide and help us in our journey of faith through life, particularly during this blessed season and time of Lent. May He empower each and every one of us in our path, so that we may always adhere faithfully to His Law and commandments. May He inspire us to follow in the footsteps of His Saints, holy men and women, particularly the Saints we celebrate today and many others, such that we may ourselves be sources of inspiration and strength for our fellow brethren, and be the beacons of God’s light, truth and love. May the Lord our loving God and Master continue to love and guide us all in our journey in life, and may He empower so that we may continue to remain faithful to the calling, mission and vocations which He has entrusted to us. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us the grace to remain faithful and seek the Lord with ever greater faith and commitment, and may He bless us all with His guidance and strength, and bless our every good efforts, deeds and works, in all circumstances and things, now and always. Amen 🙏🏽

    Heavenly Father, You have revealed Your truth through Christ, yet so often we fail to recognize and accept Him fully in our lives. Forgive us for the times we seek the approval of others instead of seeking You. Help us to turn away from the idols of this world and trust in Your divine mercy. Strengthen our faith so that we may hear and believe Your words, allowing them to shape our hearts and guide our actions. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen. Faith is not just about knowing Scripture but about encountering Christ personally. Today, let us reflect on the ways we seek human approval rather than God’s truth, and let us recommit ourselves to following Him wholeheartedly. Through prayer and repentance, we can always return to the Lord, who is ready to show us His mercy and love. Amen 🙏🏽

    DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF APRIL | MONTH OF HOLY EUCHARIST: April is dedicated to the Holy Eucharist, the greatest gift of Christ to His Church. In the Eucharist, Jesus is truly present Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity offering Himself as the Bread of Life. This month invites us to deepen our love and reverence for the Eucharist, especially as we approach Holy Week and Easter, celebrating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord. The Eucharist was instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper when He said, “Take and eat; this is My Body… Drink from it, all of you, for this is My Blood of the Covenant” (Matthew 26:26-28). In receiving the Eucharist, we are united with Christ and His Church. It is the source of our strength and the culmination of our salvation, as Christ Himself said in John 6:51, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.” As we journey through Lent, we are called to renew our reverence for the Eucharist. During Holy Week, we remember that Christ instituted this sacrament on Holy Thursday, offering us a way to remain in union with Him. Let us take this opportunity to attend Mass regularly, spend time in Eucharistic adoration, and reflect on the mystery of Christ’s presence in the Blessed Sacrament.

    In this season of penance and reflection, may our devotion to the Eucharist strengthen our commitment to living as true disciples of Christ, leading us to the joy of Easter and the Resurrection.

    O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Lord Jesus, You have given Yourself to us in the Eucharist. May we receive You with reverence and love, and let Your grace transform us this Lenten season and always. Amen 🙏🏽

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

    PRAYER INTENTIONS: As we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Richard of Chichester, Bishop, we pray for the clergy, that they may follow his example of humility, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel. We ask for God’s healing grace upon the sick, especially those facing terminal illness, and for strength and peace for their families. We pray for the poor, the oppressed, and all who suffer from injustice, that they may experience God’s love and mercy in their lives. We also lift up the persecuted Christians around the world, asking God to protect them and give them the courage to stand firm in their faith. During this Easter season, we pray that all Christians may be filled with the joy and hope of the resurrection, allowing it to transform their lives and inspire them to live with greater devotion to God. Finally, we pray for those struggling with sin, that they may find healing and forgiveness through God’s grace and be renewed in their faith.

    Let Us Pray:

    My praiseworthy Lord, I do thank You and praise You for Your perfect goodness. I thank You for the way that You act in perfect union with the will of the Father. Help me to listen only to Your voice in this life and to reject all the misleading and confusing voices of the world. May my values and choices be guided by You and You alone. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽

    Lord Jesus, Through the intercession of Saint Richard of Chichester, we humbly bring our prayers before You. Strengthen our faith, that we may live with the same fervor and dedication to Your will as Saint Richard did. Help us to trust in Your providence, just as he trusted in You, and to seek Your justice with courage and humility. May we continue to rejoice in the resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ, and live according to the call You have placed on our lives.

    We ask this in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen. 🙏🏽

    Save us Savior of the world. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Joseph and Saint Richard of Chichester, Bishop ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽

    Thanking God for the gift of this day and praying for us all during this season of Lent, let us be renewed by prayer, fasting, and giving to the poor. We pray for justice, peace, love and unity in our families and our world. May this Lenten season deepen our trust in God’s providence and open our hearts to His transforming grace. May God keep us all safe and well during these challenging times and may this season of Lent bring us all true salvation in Christ as we remain united in peace, love and faith. Have a blessed, safe and grace-filled and fruitful fourth Week of Lent ~ Amen 🙏🏽

    Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖

    DAILY REFLECTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

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

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

  • Catholic Daily Mass

    Catholic Daily Mass

    Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary on the Fourth Week of Lent | April 3, 2025 on EWTN” |

    Watch “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | April 3, 2025 |

    Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | April 3, 2025 |

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

  • DAY 26: LENTEN PRAYERS AND REFLECTIONS

    DAY 26: LENTEN PRAYERS AND REFLECTIONS

    Day Twenty-Six: Obedience in the Mystery of God’s Love
    Thursday, Fourth Week of Lent – April 3, 2025

    Scripture Passage:
    “Amen, amen, I say to you, the Son cannot do anything on his own, but only what he sees the Father doing; for what he does, the Son will do also.” (John 5:19)

    Opening Reflection:
    Obedience is often seen as a sacrifice, a yielding of one’s will to something greater. In today’s Gospel, we see Jesus, the Son of God, living in perfect obedience to the Father. This obedience is not out of obligation, but a reflection of the deep unity and love that exists within the Holy Trinity. Jesus’ perfect submission to the Father is the model for us—showing that obedience is not about control but about trust and communion. As we journey through Lent, we are invited to reflect on how we respond to God’s call to live in obedience to His will.

    Meditative Reflection:
    Obedience to God is not simply about following rules or fulfilling duties. It is about entering into the mystery of divine relationship. Just as Jesus lives in perfect unity with the Father, we are invited into that same relationship. The Gospel today reveals that everything Jesus does is in alignment with the Father’s will. There is a profound trust in this obedience—a trust that the Father knows what is best and that His love will always guide and sustain.

    Reflecting on this in light of our own lives, we see that it is not always easy to surrender our will. There are times when we feel distant from God, when we struggle with doubt or fear. Yet, like the loving mother in the first reflection, who never forgets her child, God’s love for us is unwavering. He is always there, inviting us to return to Him, to trust in His perfect plan, and to align our lives with His will. This is the obedience that brings us closer to God and transforms us.

    Reflection Questions:
    How can I grow in my obedience to God’s will? Are there areas of my life where I struggle to trust God completely? How can I reflect the love and unity of the Holy Trinity in my relationships today?

    Lenten Question:
    Q: How can obedience deepen our relationship with God?
    A: Obedience is a response to God’s love, a way of aligning our hearts with His divine will. It allows us to experience His presence more fully and strengthens our union with Him. Through obedience, we grow in trust and intimacy with God.

    Lenten Action:
    Take time today to reflect on an area of your life where you are struggling to obey God’s will. Offer a prayer of surrender, asking the Holy Spirit to help you trust and follow God’s guidance more deeply.

    Concluding Prayer:
    Heavenly Father, Your love for us is beyond comprehension. You invite us into perfect union with You, just as Jesus is united with You in perfect obedience. Help me to grow in trust and to surrender my will to You, knowing that Your plans for me are filled with love and hope. May this Lenten season deepen my obedience and strengthen my relationship with You. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

    Resources for Lenten Prayers and Reflections:

    Daily Saints and Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

    Lenten Reflections | EWTN | https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/reflections/lent

    Lenten Prayers and Daily Reflections | My Catholic Life | https://mycatholic.life/lent-prayers-reflections/

  • SAINTS OF THE DAY: APRIL 2ND

    SAINTS OF THE DAY: APRIL 2ND

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT FRANCIS OF PAOLA, HERMIT AND SAINT MARY OF EGYPT, HERMITESS – FEAST DAY: APRIL 2ND : Today we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Francis of Paola, Hermit, who was named Patron of Italian seamen in 1943 by Pope Pius XII because many of the miracles attributed to him were related to the sea. (He’s the Patron Saint of Calabria; Amato; La Chorrera, Panama; boatmen, mariners, and naval officers) and Saint Mary of Egypt, Hermitess, known for her conversion and dedication of her life to God, she is seen as a model of repentance. She’s the Patron Saint of Chastity (warfare against the flesh; deliverance from carnal passions); Demons (deliverance from); Fever; Skin diseases; Temptations of the flesh. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints on this feast day, as we begin Holy Week, we humbly pray for the Church and the Clergy, we pray for their protection, safety and well-being, especially during these incredibly challenging times. May the Lord preserve the members of the Navy, Marines and all sailors from all harm and dangers of the sea, and from the violence of the enemy and we pray for the conversion of sinners and deliverance from evil … Amen🙏

    Saint Francis of Paola, you lived an integrated life deeply united to God, nature, and your fellow man. Intercede before the Trinity in heaven on our behalf, assisting us to grow closer to God through death to self, through prayer and through a deep attachment to Christ. Amen🙏

    “Fix your minds on the passion of our Lord Jesus Christ. Inflamed with love for us, He came down from heaven to redeem us.
    For our sake He endured every torment of body and soul and shrank from no bodily pain. He Himself gave us an example of perfect patience and love. We, then, are to be patient in adversity.” ~ St. Francis of Paola, Hermit.

    SAINT FRANCIS OF PAOLA, HERMIT: St. Francis of Paola (1416-1507) was born about the year 1416, at Paola, a small city Calabria Italy. His parents were very poor, but virtuous and known for their holiness. After suffering childlessness for many years, his parents had recourse to prayer, especially the intercession of St. Francis of Assisi. They eventually had three children, and the eldest, Francis, was named after St. Francis in thanksgiving for his birth. Francis of Paola grew in sanctity, and after having a vision of St. Francis he spent a year in a Franciscan convent to fulfill a vow his parents had made to the saint. After his time there, he returned to his parents and accompanied them on a pilgrimage to Assisi. Upon returning home, Francis retired to a private spot on his parents’ estate to live as a hermit. He later moved his dwelling to a lonely cave by the seashore, living there in prayer, solitude, and mortification for six years. Disciples gradually came to him to imitate his manner of life, so many that St. Francis of Paola, with the permission of his bishop, built a monastery and church to accommodate them. He later obtained permission from the Holy See to found a new religious order called the Minims, or “The Least,” as they were to live hidden lives of poverty, abstinence, and humility. The Minim Order, is a branch of the Franciscans (1454). These “Hermits of St. Francis of Assisi” dwelt in small houses, and as “least” brethren, endeavored to live a more austere and humble life than the “Fratres Minores.”  Pope Sixtus IV sent him to France to help Louis XI on his deathbed. St. Francis traveled to France taking with him his nephew Nicholas, whom he had raised from the dead. There, the notoriously power-hungry King Louis XI was approaching the point of death himself, and hoped that St. Francis would perform a miracle and restore his health. St. Francis told the king bluntly that he should not fear the end of his earthly life, but the loss of eternal life. From that time, the hermit became a close spiritual adviser to the king. He discussed the reality of death and eternity with him, and urged him to surrender his heart and soul to God before it was too late. St. Francis of Paola stood high in the esteem of the French king, Louis XI, whom he helped prepare for death. The king died in Francis’ arms in 1483. King Louis XI’s son and successor, Charles VIII, maintained the monk, St. Francis as a close adviser, in spiritual and even political affairs. Nonetheless, Francis persisted in following the monastic rule he had developed while living in his hermitage outside of Paola. He continued as superior general of the Minim order, he remained there and founded new monasteries, house of his Minims at Tours in France.

    St. Francis of Paola became famous and was sought out by others for his prophecies and miracles. The saint worked numerous miracles. He had a favorite ejaculation, one that welled up from the depths of his physical and spiritual being: “Out of love.” This was an all-powerful ejaculation for him and for his companions. “Out of love” the heaviest stone was light; “Out of love” he admonished and punished; “Out of love” he once crossed the sea without a boat. For on a certain occasion the saint wanted to go from the Italian mainland to Sicily. A boat was lying in the harbor. St. Francis asked the owner if he would take him and his companion along on the boat. “If you pay, monk,” the sailor answered sulkily, “I will take you along.” “Out of love,” the saint humbly pleaded; “for I have no money with me.” “Then I have no ship for you,” came the mocking reply. “Out of love,” was St. Francis’ answer, “forgive me if I go away.” He walked about a stone’s throw to the shore, knelt down, and blessed the sea. Then, to the sailor’s great surprise, the saint suddenly stood up, stepped out on the tossing waves, and with firm foot trod over the surging sea. St. Francis sensed that his death was approaching at the age of 91, and returned to living in complete solitude for three months to prepare himself. When he emerged, he gathered a group of the Minim brothers and gave them final instructions for the future of the order. He fell sick on Palm Sunday, 1507 and after receiving Last Rites, received Holy Communion and died while the Passion of Christ was read to him aloud. St. Francis of Paola died on April 2, Good Friday of 1507. Pope Leo X canonized St. Francis of Paola 12 years after his death, in 1519. Although the Minim order lost many of its monasteries in the 18th century during the French Revolution, it continues to exist, primarily in Italy. His feast day is April 2 and he’s the Saint Patron against fire; boatmen; Calabria, Italy (named by Pope John XXIII in 1963); mariners; naval officers; plague epidemics; sailors; sterility; travellers; watermen, Amato; La Chorrera, Panama.

    PRAYER: God, the exultation of the humble, You raised St. Francis to the glory of Your Saints. Through his merits and example, grant that we may happily obtain the rewards promised to the humble. Amen. Saint Francis of Paola … pray for us🙏
     
    SAINT MARY OF EGYPT, HERMITESS: Saint Mary of Egypt (344-421) story demonstrates the power of the Church as the home of forgiveness, redemption and mercy. St. Mary of Egypt is known for her conversion and dedication of her life to God, she is seen as a model of repentance. St. Mary of Egypt was a prostitute for 17 years before she received the Eucharist and chose the life of a hermit. Born in 344 A.D., St. Mary of Egypt moved to the city of Alexandria at the tender age of twelve, she left her father’s house that she might be without restraint in her life of debauchery, which she pursued for seventeen years at Alexandria. With the intention of continuing her trade of prostitution, she joined a large group that was making a pilgrimage to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. On the feast day itself, she joined the crowd as it was headed to the church in order to venerate the relic of the True Cross, again with the intention of luring others into sin. When she got to the door of the church, she was unable to enter. A miraculous force propelled her away from the door each time she approached. After trying to get in three or four times, St. Mary of Egypt moved to a corner of the churchyard and began to cry tears of remorse. Then she saw a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. She prayed to the Holy Mother for permission to enter the church for the purposes of venerating the relic. She promised the Virgin Mother that if she were allowed to enter the church, she would renounce the world and its ways. St. Mary of Egypt entered the church, venerated the relic and returned to the statue outside to pray for guidance. She heard a voice telling her to cross the Jordan River and find rest. She set out and in the evening, she arrived at the Jordan and received communion in a church dedicated to St. John the Baptist.

    The next day, she crossed the river and went into the desert east of Palestine, where she lived alone for 47 years, not seeing a single human being and beset by all kinds of temptations, which were mitigated by her prayers to the Blessed Virgin. Then, while making his Lenten retreat, a priest named Zosimus found the hermitess and was impressed by her spiritual knowledge and wisdom. She told him that for seventeen years she was a singer and actress who had sinned and was doing penance in the desert. She said the old songs and scenes had haunted her; but since then she had had perfect peace. At her request, she asked the Holy Man of God to return to the banks of the Jordan on Holy Thursday of the following year and to bring her Communion. The priest was true to his word and returned bearing the Eucharist. St. Mary told him to come back again the next year, but to the place where he had originally met her. When the Priest, Zosimus returned in a year’s time, he found Mary’s corpse upon the sand. On the ground beside it was a written request with an inscription saying, Bury here the body of Mary the sinner. She requested that she be buried accompanied by a statement that she had died one year ago, in 421 A.D., on the very night she had received Holy Communion. Amazed, Zosimus began to dig and was later joined by a lion who helped him finish digging. After burying St. Mary of Egypt, Zosimus returned to his monastery near the Jordan, he told the brethren what he had witnessed and improved the faults of the monks there and the story spread. Her feast day is April 2nd and she’s the Patron Saint of Chastity (warfare against the flesh; deliverance from carnal passions); Demons (deliverance from); Fever; Skin diseases; Temptations of the flesh.

    PRAYER: Saint Mary of Egypt, we beseech you to accept our prayer, in the Name of God, for we turn to you in veneration of your holiness and in supplication of your intercession. We also wish to dedicate our lives to the Virgin Mother and to go wherever she directs us. In this way, we shall be blessed with true happiness and inherit the Kingdom of Heaven. For this we pray, and for this we thank you and all the saints in Heaven. Amen. Saint Mary of Egypt ~ Pray for us🙏

  • MEMORIAL OF SAINT FRANCIS OF PAOLA, HERMIT AND SAINT MARY OF EGYPT, HERMITESS

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT FRANCIS OF PAOLA, HERMIT AND SAINT MARY OF EGYPT, HERMITESS

    FOURTH WEEK OF LENT

    SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: FEAST DAY ~ APRIL 2, 2025

    MEMORIAL OF SAINT FRANCIS OF PAOLA, HERMIT AND SAINT MARY OF EGYPT, HERMITESS | Lives of the Saints | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day/

    Greetings and blessings, beloved family! Happy Wednesday, Fourth Week of Lent, and welcome to a new month!

    We thank God for the  gift of life and for the gift of the new month of April. May this month bring renewal in faith, deepening our journey through Lent and drawing us closer to Christ. May God’s grace guide and strengthen us every day and may His grace and mercy be with us all during this season of our Lenten journey. 🙏🏽

    “Watch Holy Mass on the 20th Anniversary of the death of Saint John Paul II | Presided over by Cardinal Pietro Parolin | Live from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican | April 2, 2025” | Life of St. John Paul II | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/02/watch-holy-mass-on-the-20th-anniversary-of-the-death-of-saint-john-paul-ii-presided-over-by-cardinal-pietro-parolin-live-from-st-peters-basilica-in-the-vatican-april-2-2025/

    LIVE | Holy Mass commemorating the 20th anniversary of the death of Saint John Paul II, presided over by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.

    Gracious God, source of all light and joy, we come to you in thanksgiving for the life of Pope John Paul II. Throughout his life, he tirelessly preached the Gospel of your Son, Jesus. May the fire of love that consumed the Holy Father burn also within us so that the world will know the joy of your reign. Amen 🙏🏽

    Saint John Paul II, Pope ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽

    Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary on EWTN” | “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/2025/04/02/catholic-daily-mass-29/

    DAY 25: LENTEN PRAYERS AND REFLECTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/02/day-25-lenten-prayers-and-reflections/

    DAILY REFLECTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

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

    LENT: | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/03/03/lent/

    STATIONS OF THE CROSS | A JOURNEY WITH CHRIST | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/03/03/stations-of-the-cross/

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

    WORLD PRAYERS FOR POPE FRANCIS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/02/26/world-prayers-for-pope-francis/

    PRAYER FOR POPE FRANCIS

    “Loving God, we thank you for the unwavering faith and leadership of Pope Francis. As he recovers from his hospitalization, we humbly ask for your healing touch upon his body, your peace upon his mind, and your comfort for his spirit. Grant him strength, renewed energy, and a continued ability to serve your flock with compassion and wisdom. We entrust him to your loving care, and we pray that he may soon be restored to good health, if it be your will. Through Christ our Lord, Amen”🙏🏽

    On this special feast day, as we continue our Lenten journey, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, particularly Saint Joseph, Patron of the dying, we pray for the sick and dying and all those who mourn the loss of their loved ones and celebrate their memorial anniversary today. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, and we continue to pray for the repose of the gentle souls of 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 🙏🏽

    THE HOLY FATHER, POPE FRANCIS’ MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL: For the use of the new technologies ~ Let us pray that the use of the new technologies will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times.

    PRAYER OF THE MONTH ~ POPE FRANCIS: Lord, Good Father, as I look at the world and see men and women working in it and beautifying it, a great “Thank You!” springs from my heart. The action of Your Spirit among us encourages us to grow in the progress of science and technology in the service of human dignity for integral and inclusive human development. Because we know You desire the good of all, from the heart of Your Church, Your Son calls us to ensure that technology does not replace “person-to-person” contact, that the virtual does not replace the real, and that social networks do not replace social settings. Help us develop the ability to live wisely, to think deeply, to love generously, without losing heart, promoting scientific and technological growth that increasingly aligns with human development in responsibility, values, and awareness.
    Amen 🙏🏽

    (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/

    A PRAYER TO WALK HUMBLY THROUGH LENT: Father, In Micah 6:8, You say, “O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Today we choose to walk humbly with You. We choose to live by Your Holy Spirit and to follow Your lead. Help us to hear You clearly, for we do not want to walk by pride or self-sufficiency, we want to walk with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen 🙏🏽

    God of goodness and mercy, hear my prayer as I begin this Lenten journey with you. Let me be honest with myself as I look into my heart and soul, noticing the times I turn away from you. Guide me as I humbly seek to repent and return to your love. May humility guide my efforts to be reconciled with you and live forever in your abundant grace. Transform me this Lent, heavenly Father. Give me the strength to commit myself to grow closer to you each day. Amen 🙏🏽

    LENTEN FAST AND ABSTINENCE (Lenten Fast and Abstinence regulations from the USCCB): Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics. In addition, Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence.

    For members of the Latin Catholic Church, the norms on fasting are obligatory from age 18 until age 59. When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal. The norms concerning abstinence from meat are binding upon members of the Latin Catholic Church from age 14 onwards

    Members of the Eastern Catholic Churches are to observe the particular law of their own sui iuris Church. If possible, the fast on Good Friday is continued until the Easter Vigil (on Holy Saturday night) as the “paschal fast” to honor the suffering and death of the Lord Jesus, and to prepare ourselves to share more fully and to celebrate more readily His Resurrection. 🙏🏽

    SAINT(S) OF THE DAY: MEMORIAL OF SAINT FRANCIS OF PAOLA, HERMIT AND SAINT MARY OF EGYPT, HERMITESS – FEAST DAY: APRIL 2ND Today, as we continue our Lenten journey, we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Francis of Paola, Hermit, who was named Patron of Italian seamen in 1943 by Pope Pius XII because many of the miracles attributed to him were related to the sea. (He is the Patron Saint of Calabria, Amato, La Chorrera, Panama, boatmen, mariners, and naval officers). We also celebrate Saint Mary of Egypt, Hermitess, known for her conversion and dedication of her life to God, and she is seen as a model of repentance. (She is the Patron Saint of Chastity, warfare against the flesh, deliverance from carnal passions, demons, fever, skin diseases, and temptations of the flesh).

    Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and these two remarkable saints, we pray for all those who are seeking to follow God’s call through lives of prayer and penance. May we grow in holiness as we imitate their dedication and their profound connection to God.

    Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | April 2nd | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

    (Direct link to detailed history of the lives of the Saints | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day/)

    SAINT FRANCIS OF PAOLA, HERMIT (1416–1507): Saint Francis of Paola was born in Calabria, Italy, in 1416. Coming from a deeply devout family, he was drawn to the spiritual life early. After a vision of Saint Francis of Assisi, he chose to live a life of solitude, prayer, and penance. He eventually founded the Minim Order, a community of hermits dedicated to poverty, humility, and mortification.Known for his humility and austerity, Saint Francis was also a man of miracles. One of his most famous miracles occurred when, rejected by a sailor, he stepped out onto the sea, walking across the water to reach his destination. His deep faith and reliance on God’s providence were evident throughout his life.

    Saint Francis of Paola is also remembered for his service to King Louis XI of France, whom he prepared for death. The king died in Francis’ arms, and the saint’s influence continued to guide French royalty and many others who sought his counsel.

    PRAYER: Saint Francis of Paola, you lived a life of humility and total reliance on God. Help us to embrace simplicity and live faithfully according to God’s will. Intercede for us, that we may grow closer to God in prayer, sacrifice, and love. Amen.

    SAINT MARY OF EGYPT, HERMITESS (344–421): Saint Mary of Egypt’s story is one of profound conversion. Born in Alexandria, she lived a sinful life for seventeen years, engaging in prostitution and a life of debauchery. However, her life changed dramatically when she tried to enter a church in Jerusalem to venerate the Holy Cross but was mysteriously repelled. This moment led her to repentance, and she chose to live the rest of her life in the desert as a hermit.

    For forty-seven years, Saint Mary of Egypt lived in isolation, enduring great temptations and growing in spiritual strength. Her deep commitment to penance and prayer became an inspiration to many, especially when she met the priest Zosimus, who brought her the Eucharist. After her death, Zosimus returned to find her body and buried her with reverence, deeply moved by the holiness of her life.

    PRAYER: Saint Mary of Egypt, you embraced a life of repentance and holiness, finding peace in God’s love after a life of sin. Help us to turn away from sin and live with pure hearts, dedicating ourselves to God in prayer and service. Pray for us, that we may grow in virtue and follow God’s will. Amen.

    As we reflect on the lives of Saint Francis of Paola and Saint Mary of Egypt, let us strive to live lives of humility, repentance, and prayer, especially during this Lenten season. May their examples inspire us to be more devoted to God and to live lives of simplicity, penance, and love for others.

    Saint Francis of Paola, Hermit, and Saint Mary of Egypt, Hermitess ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽

    SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

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

    Today’s Bible Readings: Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Lent | April 2, 2025
    Reading 1, Isaiah 49:8-15
    Responsorial Psalm, Psalms 145:8-9, 13-14, 17-18
    Gospel, John 5:17-30

    Gospel Reading ~ John 5:17-30

    “As the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also does the Son give life to those whom He chooses”

    “Jesus answered the Jews: “My Father is at work until now, so I am at work.” For this reason they tried all the more to kill him, because he not only broke the sabbath
    but he also called God his own father, making himself equal to God. Jesus answered and said to them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, the Son cannot do anything on his own, but only what he sees the Father doing; for what he does, the Son will do also. For the Father loves the Son and shows him everything that he himself does, and he will show him greater works than these, so that you may be amazed. For just as the Father raises the dead and gives life, so also does the Son give life to whomever he wishes. Nor does the Father judge anyone, but he has given all judgment to the Son, so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes in the one who sent me has eternal life and will not come to condemnation, but has passed from death to life. Amen, amen, I say to you, the hour is coming and is now here when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. For just as the Father has life in himself, so also he gave to the Son the possession of life in himself. And he gave him power to exercise judgment, because he is the Son of Man. Do not be amazed at this, because the hour is coming in which all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and will come out, those who have done good deeds to the resurrection of life, but those who have done wicked deeds to the resurrection of
    condemnation. “I cannot do anything on
    my own; I judge as I hear, and my judgment is just, because I do not seek my own will but the will of the one who sent me.”

    In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus answered the Jews: “My Father is at work until now, so I am at work.” This was in response to the religious leaders who were critical of Jesus for working on the Sabbath by healing a man who had been paralyzed for thirty eight years, at a pool near the Sheep Gate in Jerusalem (yesterday’s Gospel reading). The work that Jesus and His Father are always engaged in is that of giving life to others, ‘As the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so the Son gives life to anyone He chooses… For the Father, who is the source of life, has made the Son the source of life’. God goes on working through His Son in a life-giving way. It is reassuring to know that God and the risen Lord go on working to bring life to all. We may not be able to work, for one reason or another. When we do work, we may feel that our work is not bearing any good fruit. Yet, God and His Son never cease to work among us and through us. Just as the sun cannot but shine, so God our Lord cannot but work. The Lord does not rest from his labours on our behalf, no more than a mother rests from her labours on behalf of her child, in the imagery of today’s first reading. The Lord calls on each of us to become the instruments of His labour on behalf of others, to allow Him to work through us for the present and ultimate well-being of others. If we trust in the Lord, listening to His words, then He will be working through us, even at those times when we seem incapable of much work.

    Reflecting on today’s Gospel reading, Jesus asserts His unity with the Father, declaring that His work is a continuation of the Father’s work. This claim not only emphasizes His divine mission but also underscores His equality with the Father, something that caused great opposition from the Jews. Jesus reveals that the Son, just like the Father, has power over life and death, and He has been entrusted with the judgment of all humanity. This profound statement invites us to consider the depth of Jesus’ authority and the nature of His relationship with the Father. The passage challenges us to reflect on our own relationship with God and whether we fully honor both the Father and the Son. Just as Jesus has the power to give life, He also calls us to pass from death to life through Him. The choice is not just a future promise, but a present reality—one that can transform our lives today. The healing power of Jesus reaches into the deepest recesses of our lives, calling us to rise from our own spiritual paralysis. Are we willing to listen to His voice and be made whole?

    Our first reading today from the Book of the Prophet Isaiah is the words of comfort and assurances from God to His people in the kingdom of Judah, as He told them that He will always remember them and that He will always provide for them, and be reconciled with them, despite their past wickedness and sins. The Lord spoke to His people of His promised salvation to all of them. He would rescue them from their troubles and deliver them from the hands of the evil one, and all of the plots against them. This is significant given the context of what happened at that time, as the people of Israel, the descendant of the people of God had been going through a lot of challenges and trials, having been torn apart and lost their unity. Back then, during the time of the prophet Isaiah’s life and ministry, the people of God, the Israelites had been wrecked by a lot of hardships and tragedies, especially when the northern half of the land of Israel and most of the ten tribes of the twelve of the Israelites were crushed and conquered by the Assyrians. Those in the northern kingdom of Israel had long defied the Lord and refused to obey Him, and most of their kings were wicked and sinful, leading the people further and deeper into the path of sin. Thus, the terrible end eventually came upon them, as the Assyrians destroyed and laid waste their cities, and brought many of them into exile in far-off lands away from their homeland. Despite all of these, as God Himself has proclaimed, He still remembered His people and would not abandon them. Our first reading today portrays God like a woman feeding her child at her breast. The bond between the feeding mother and her baby becomes an image of the bond between God and the believing community. A mother’s love for the child of her womb is tender and life-giving. A mother loves her child as she loves herself because for nine months her child was an integral part of herself. Speaking through the prophet Isaiah, God declares that His love for His people is even stronger than a mother’s love for her child. We are reminded of this during this time of Lent so that hopefully we may change our ways and turn once again towards the Lord and His mercy.

    Reflecting on the first reading from Isaiah, the Lord speaks of His covenant with His people and His promise of restoration. He reassures His people, even in their affliction, that He will never forget them. This promise of comfort and mercy is a reminder that God’s love endures beyond the circumstances we face. No matter how desolate our situation may seem, God’s faithfulness remains. Just as a mother cannot forget her child, God cannot forget His people. This unbreakable bond is a source of hope for us all.

    Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, we are reminded of God’s graciousness and mercy. The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, offering comfort and strength. This psalm assures us that God’s compassion is available to all who seek it, reinforcing the theme of divine mercy present in both the first reading and the Gospel.

    In our spiritual journey, we often face challenges that make us feel abandoned or forgotten, like the people of Zion in Isaiah’s prophecy. Yet, God’s unchanging love and mercy are always present, calling us to trust in His promises. In the Gospel, Jesus shows us that even in the darkest moments, He is at work, bringing healing and life to all who believe. Do I trust in the healing power of Jesus? In what areas of my life do I need His restoration? How can I deepen my relationship with the Father and Son, embracing the eternal life they offer? Let us be mindful today of God’s faithfulness and mercy. As we walk through the trials of life, may we find comfort in the truth that God will never forget us. Let us respond to His call by turning to Him with open hearts, allowing His life-giving grace to renew and restore us. May our faith in His promises guide us through this Lenten season and beyond.

    Aa we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we are reminded of the great love of God, the many wonderful things that God had done for our sake. He has showed His love to us repeatedly, again and again, even when we have often betrayed and ignored Him, abandoned and left Him for other idols and distractions in life. He patiently extended to all of us the offer of His love and compassionate mercy, wanting to be reconciled with us sinners, and calling on all of us to return to Him. Let us all no longer be stubborn or difficult in our attitudes, allowing ourselves to be immersed in God’s love and grace. May the Lord, our most loving God and Father continue to love us and provide us each day, and may He empower us all with the strength and the desire to reach out to Him and His most generous love and mercy. May He instil in each one of us the strong desire to commit ourselves to Him and His path, and inspire us that we may be good role models and source of inspiration to all those whom we encounter in our lives, so that more people may come to believe in God through us. May the Lord continue to help and guide us in our respective journey of faith, and may He empower us all to live ever more worthily of His presence from now on, if we have not yet done so. Let us consciously reject the temptations to sin, and strive to live a good and worthy life at all times. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace and bless us all and our every actions, so that we may always strive to glorify Him by those same actions and deeds. Amen 🙏🏽

    Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unfailing love and mercy. Help us to trust in Your promises, even in our times of distress. May we always turn to You for healing and restoration, knowing that You will never forget us. Guide us in our journey of faith, and may we honor both You and Your Son, Jesus Christ, with our lives. Amen 🙏🏽

    DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF APRIL | MONTH OF HOLY EUCHARIST: April is dedicated to the Holy Eucharist, the greatest gift of Christ to His Church. In the Eucharist, Jesus is truly present Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity offering Himself as the Bread of Life. This month invites us to deepen our love and reverence for the Eucharist, especially as we approach Holy Week and Easter, celebrating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord. The Eucharist was instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper when He said, “Take and eat; this is My Body… Drink from it, all of you, for this is My Blood of the Covenant” (Matthew 26:26-28). In receiving the Eucharist, we are united with Christ and His Church. It is the source of our strength and the culmination of our salvation, as Christ Himself said in John 6:51, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.” As we journey through Lent, we are called to renew our reverence for the Eucharist. During Holy Week, we remember that Christ instituted this sacrament on Holy Thursday, offering us a way to remain in union with Him. Let us take this opportunity to attend Mass regularly, spend time in Eucharistic adoration, and reflect on the mystery of Christ’s presence in the Blessed Sacrament.

    In this season of penance and reflection, may our devotion to the Eucharist strengthen our commitment to living as true disciples of Christ, leading us to the joy of Easter and the Resurrection.

    O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Lord Jesus, You have given Yourself to us in the Eucharist. May we receive You with reverence and love, and let Your grace transform us this Lenten season and always. Amen 🙏🏽

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

    PRAYER INTENTIONS: We pray for all those who are in need of repentance, that through the intercession of Saint Mary of Egypt, they may find the grace to turn away from sin and live a life of holiness. We also pray for all sailors, boatmen, and mariners, especially those who face danger on the seas, that Saint Francis of Paola may watch over them and protect them from harm. May the Church continue to uphold and strengthen the clergy in their mission to shepherd God’s people, and may all Christians grow in their commitment to holiness, following the examples of these great saints.

    Let Us Pray:

    Most holy and triune God, the love You share within Your very being of Father, Son and Holy Spirit is beyond my comprehension. The mystery of Your triune life is a mystery of the greatest degree. Draw me in, dear Lord, to the life You share with Your Father and the Holy Spirit. Fill me with wonder and awe as You invite me to share in Your divine life. Most Holy Trinity, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽

    Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of Saint Francis of Paola and Saint Mary of Egypt, whose lives of repentance, humility, and devotion to You continue to inspire us. We ask for Your grace to live according to their example, turning away from sin and growing in holiness. Protect those who work on the seas and those who face great trials in their lives. May Your love and mercy surround them always. Through Christ our Lord, Amen. 🙏🏽

    Save us Savior of the world. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Joseph, Saint John Paul II, Pope, Saint Francis of Paola, Hermit, and Saint Mary of Egypt, Hermitess ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽

    Thanking God for the gift of this day and praying for us all during this season of Lent, let us be renewed by prayer, fasting, and giving to the poor. We pray for justice, peace, love and unity in our families and our world. May this Lenten season deepen our trust in God’s providence and open our hearts to His transforming grace. May God keep us all safe and well during these challenging times and may this season of Lent bring us all true salvation in Christ as we remain united in peace, love and faith. Have a blessed, safe and grace-filled and fruitful fourth Week of Lent ~ Amen 🙏🏽

    Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖

    DAILY REFLECTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

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

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