WEDNESDAY OF THE FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: JANUARY 14, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

FEAST OF THE INFANT JESUS OF PRAGUE

MEMORIAL OF SAINT FELIX OF NOLA, RELIGIOUS AND SAINT NINA (NINO), VIRGIN | JANUARY 14TH | Direct link to the detailed history of the Infant Jesus of Prague, Saint Felix of Nola, and Saint Nina | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-january-14th/

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | January 14, 2026 | “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-daily-mass-january-14-2026/

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

Greetings and blessings, beloved family!

Wednesday of the First Week in Ordinary Time finds us reflecting on God’s call and our response to His will. Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Infant Jesus of Prague, a powerful reminder of Christ’s humility and His tender care for all, especially the vulnerable and suffering. We also honor the Memorial of Saint Felix of Nola, Religious, whose life was marked by generosity, courage, and devotion to the poor, and Saint Nina (Nino), Virgin, the Apostle of Georgia, who faithfully spread the light of the Gospel through patience, prayer, and holiness. Their lives, together with today’s Scripture, invite us to listen attentively to God’s voice, respond with trust, and serve others with love and humility.

We joyfully thank God for the gift of life and for bringing us safely into the new year. As we embark on this fresh journey of faith, we give thanks for God’s boundless mercy and the hope of eternal life promised to those who believe in Him. May the witness of the Saints and the faith of our loved ones inspire us to live each day in holiness, humility, and love. This month of January, dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus, invites us to grow in grace and devotion, following His example of love, obedience, and trust in God’s plan. Through the prayers of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Holy Name of Jesus, may God fill our hearts with hope, strengthen our faith, and guide us in holiness throughout this new year. May this month bring light to our minds, peace to our hearts, and strength to our souls. Amen 🙏🏽

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” ~ Matthew 5:4

We join our Holy Father Pope Leo XIV to pray for the gentle repose of the souls of our dear beloved late Pope Francis, the Cardinals, Bishops, Priests and Religious who have gone to be with the Lord. We also remember in prayer all who began this journey of life with us but are no longer here. We pray for the gentle repose of the souls of our loved ones who recently passed away, and we continue to pray for the souls in Purgatory; lost souls. For the repose of the souls of all the faithful departed, may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom.

“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His Saints.” ~ Psalm 116:15

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon them. May their gentle souls through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ… Amen 🙏🏽

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🙏🏽✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯

Lord Almighty, we lift our hearts in gratitude for Your unfailing love, protection, and mercy that carried us through the past months. We entrust the days of January into Your hands, asking for Your blessings, guidance, and peace upon our lives and families. May this month be for us a time of renewed faith, deeper hope, and overflowing joy. We pray especially for all families, for children, parents, and teachers, that they may be strengthened and protected. Bless those who will celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, new opportunities, and milestones this month, and comfort those who enter it with heavy hearts or struggles. Lord, go before us, walk beside us, and remain with us always, now and forever. Amen. 🙏🏽

Today, we humbly pray for the poor, abandoned, and those in need, for all those who are marginalized in our society. For those who are imprisoned, especially those who are unjustly imprisoned. We pray for charitable organizations, asking God’s blessing upon their mission and we lift our prayers for peace, love, justice and unity in our families, marriages and our world. May God protect us all and keep us safe and united in peace, love and faith. Amen 🙏🏽

Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary on this special Feast day, we lift our prayers for the protection, safety and well-being of healthcare professionals, educators, missionaries, pilots, and all travelers. We ask for healing for the sick and dying, especially those who are suffering from cancers and other terminal diseases, strength for the weary, peace in troubled homes, and provision for all in need. Guide our steps in righteousness, protect us from harm, and fill our hearts with faith, joy, and gratitude. May this month draw us closer to Your will, and may every day be a testimony of Your goodness and mercy in our lives. We begin this month with trust in Your unfailing love, Lord, and we surrender all that lies ahead into Your hands. Amen 🙏🏾

We continue to pray for the Church, the Clergy, our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, the Cardinals, Bishops, all Priests, that they be sanctified in their ministry to God’s people. We pray for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and Christians all over the world suffering from political and religious unrest.

Through the intercession of St. Joseph, we pray for all fathers, mothers, workers, and all those who labor in this world. May the Lord bless the work of their hands, and may God’s grace and mercy be with us all during this season of Advent. Wishing us all and our loved ones a joyful, peaceful, and grace-filled month of January. 🙏🏽

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

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

Today’s Bible Readings: Wednesday of the First Week in Ordinary Time | January 14, 2026
Reading 1: 1 Samuel 3:1–10, 19–20
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 40:2 and 5, 7–8a, 8b–9, 10
Gospel: Mark 1:29–39

Gospel Reading ~ Mark 1:29–39

“Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.”

In today’s Gospel, we witness Jesus’ compassionate and tireless ministry. He heals Simon’s mother-in-law, cures the sick, and drives out demons, responding to human suffering with mercy and authority. Yet, despite the crowds seeking Him, He rises early to pray in solitude, showing us that His mission is rooted in intimate communion with the Father. Jesus’ example teaches us that authentic service must be nourished by prayer, and that true ministry balances action with contemplative closeness to God.

The healings and exorcisms reveal the transformative power of Christ’s presence. Those who were weak, oppressed, or sick are restored, demonstrating that no obstacle or suffering is beyond the reach of His love. His authority over sickness and evil confirms that God’s kingdom is breaking into the world, offering hope, renewal, and liberation to all who trust in Him.

The First Reading presents young Samuel’s call, a model of attentive and obedient listening. Initially unsure and inexperienced, Samuel responds to God’s repeated call with humility and openness: “Speak, for your servant is listening.” His example reminds us that God often calls us quietly, repeatedly, and unexpectedly. Responding requires patience, discernment, and a willingness to serve, even before we fully understand our mission.

The Responsorial Psalm echoes this readiness to obey God. It celebrates a heart attuned to divine will, a willingness to act according to God’s law, and the joy of living in trust and service. Both Samuel and Jesus model this openness—listening carefully, responding faithfully, and acting in accordance with God’s call.

As we reflect on today’s readings, we are invited to consider our own responsiveness to God. Are we listening attentively to His voice in the silence of prayer and the events of daily life? Do we trust Him enough to say, “Here am I, Lord,” even when the path is uncertain or demanding? Today’s Scriptures encourage us to cultivate faith, attentiveness, and courage, allowing God’s word to guide our actions and transform our hearts. 🙏🏽

Lord Jesus Christ, You call us to listen and to serve with faith and humility. Teach us to recognize Your voice amid the busyness and noise of life. Strengthen our hearts to respond with obedience, courage, and generosity, trusting in Your guidance. May we follow Your example by reaching out to the suffering, sharing Your love, and dedicating ourselves to Your will. Let our lives bear witness to Your healing, mercy, and the power of Your presence. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

FEAST OF THE INFANT JESUS OF PRAGUE | MEMORIAL OF SAINT FELIX OF NOLA, RELIGIOUS AND SAINT NINA (NINO), VIRGIN – FEAST DAY: JANUARY 14TH: Today, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Infant Jesus of Prague, a devotion that honors the mystery of the Incarnation, and commemorates the Memorial of Saint Felix of Nola, Religious, and Saint Nina (Nino), Virgin. Each of these holy figures invites us to encounter Christ through humility, compassion, and faithful service. Their lives remind us that holiness is expressed in devotion to God, care for the suffering, and courageous witness to the Faith. As we honor them today, we are encouraged to cultivate trust in God, generosity toward others, and fidelity to His call.

Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections | January 14th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com

(Direct link to the detailed history of the Infant Jesus of Prague, Saint Felix of Nola, and Saint Nina | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-january-14th/)

FEAST OF THE INFANT JESUS OF PRAGUE: The Feast of the Infant Jesus of Prague celebrates God’s wondrous love made visible in the child Jesus. The original statue, a gift from Spanish royalty to the Carmelites in Prague, depicts the Infant holding a globe and blessing the world, symbolizing His kingship and divine-human nature. Through centuries, countless miracles and acts of protection have been attributed to devotion to this statue. The Infant Jesus of Prague invites us to approach God with childlike humility, trust, and simplicity, recognizing that we are held tenderly in His care. He is the Patron of children, family life, missions, and those facing financial concerns.

PRAYER: O most dear and sweet Infant Jesus, behold me, a poor and needy soul. Strengthen my faith, guide my steps, and grant me peace and protection. Through Your loving gaze, may I grow in humility, trust, and devotion, seeking always to do Your holy will. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT FELIX OF NOLA, RELIGIOUS: Saint Felix of Nola (d. 260) was a compassionate and courageous servant of God. Son of a Roman soldier, he distributed his inheritance to the poor and assisted Bishop Maximus of Nola. During persecutions, he risked his life to protect others, was miraculously freed from imprisonment, and continued a life of humble service. Though chosen to be bishop, he declined in favor of another, dedicating himself to the care of the poor and vulnerable. St. Felix is remembered for his charity, courage, and steadfast faith. Patron Saint against eye diseases, lies, false witness, and for helpers of the poor.

PRAYER: Saint Felix of Nola, you who devoted your life to the service of the needy and protected others in peril, pray for us. May we imitate your generosity, courage, and love for God and neighbor. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT NINA (NINO), VIRGIN: Saint Nina (3rd–4th Century), known as the Apostle of Georgia, brought Christianity to the people of Iberia through her prayers, preaching, and miraculous deeds. Born in Cappadocia and related to Saint George, she healed the sick, converted the royal family, and guided countless others to the Faith. Her perseverance, patience, and holiness enabled the light of Christ to shine across a nation. Saint Nina reminds us that faithful witness, even in challenging circumstances, can transform lives and communities.

PRAYER: Lord, through Saint Nina, Your Virgin, You guided many from darkness to the light of truth. May her intercession strengthen our faith, inspire courage in proclaiming the Gospel, and deepen our love for You. Amen. 🙏🏾

Our Blessed Mother Mary, the Infant Jesus of Prague, Saint Felix of Nola, and Saint Nina — pray for us. 🙏🏾

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

LIST OF ALL NOVENAS | Month of January | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/list-of-all-novenas-january-2026/

COMMON CATHOLIC PRAYERS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/common-catholic-prayers/

THE HOLY ROSARY: WHAT IS THE HOLY ROSARY AND WHY DO WE PRAY THE HOLY ROSARY? | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/11/21/the-holy-rosary-what-is-the-holy-rosary-and-why-do-we-pray-the-holy-rosary/

Please find below links to the websites for Daily Reflections, Foundation, and interesting topics and articles about our Catholic faith and doctrines | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/30/daily-reflections-and-prayer-links/

THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2026: FOR THE MONTH OF JANUARY: For prayer with the Word of God. Let us pray that praying with the Word of God be nourishment for our lives and a source of hope in our communities, helping us to build a more fraternal and missionary Church.

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

MONTH OF THE HOLY NAME OF JESUS: The month of January is traditionally dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus. After the Blessed Virgin Mary conceived by the Holy Spirit, the Angel Gabriel appeared to St. Joseph told him that the Child’s name should be called Jesus, meaning “God Saves.” According to Jewish law, on the 8th day after his birth, a male child was to be circumcised, receive his name, and become a full member of God’s covenant people. According to the old Roman liturgical calendar, the Feast of the Circumcision of Jesus was celebrated on January 1st, eight days after Christmas, the same day that He was given His sacred name. Currently, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Mother of God on January 1st and honor the Holy Name of Jesus on January 3rd. For Catholics, Jesus’ sacred name is the object of a special devotion symbolized by the monogram “IHS,” (sometimes called a Christogram), which is the first three letters of the Greek spelling of His name.

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12538

PRAYER INTENTIONS: Today, we bring before the Lord the needs of all who seek His mercy and guidance. We pray for the sick and suffering, that through the intercession of the Infant Jesus of Prague, they may experience healing, comfort, and hope. We lift up those struggling to serve God faithfully, asking Saint Felix of Nola to inspire courage, generosity, and perseverance in their daily lives. We remember missionaries, evangelizers, and all who work to spread the light of Christ, invoking Saint Nina’s prayers for patience, holiness, and fruitful witness. We also pray for the grace to hear God’s voice as Samuel did, responding with openness and trust to His call, and for hearts ever ready to do God’s will in humility and love.

LET US PRAY:

Lord Jesus, You call us to listen, to serve, and to trust in Your love. Strengthen our faith, that we may answer Your call with courage like Samuel, serve others with charity like Saint Felix of Nola, and witness boldly to Your truth like Saint Nina. May the Infant Jesus of Prague inspire us to approach You with childlike trust and humility, knowing that You hold all creation in Your hands. Heal the sick, console the sorrowful, guide the faithful, and grant us hearts open to Your will. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, the Infant Jesus of Prague, Saint Felix of Nola, and Saint Nina ~ Pray for us 🙏🏾

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

Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day and for His faithful presence throughout the year now unfolding, we begin this Ordinary Time with hearts open to His continual guidance and grace. As each day dawns, we pause to reflect with gratitude on all that has been and all that is to come, entrusting our joys and sorrows, successes and shortcomings, into God’s merciful hands. We lift our hearts in thanksgiving for the greatest gift ever given: God Himself, present with us each day, bringing light, hope, and salvation into our lives and into the world.

As we step forward into this new year, may this sacred season invite us to begin again with renewed faith, deeper trust, and a greater openness to God’s grace. May the peace, hope, and steady guidance that flow from walking daily with Christ shape our steps, inform our decisions, and strengthen our resolve to live each day in love and holiness. As we journey through Ordinary Time, may God bless all families and loved ones as we embrace the year ahead, and may His light continue to shine brightly in every home. May this season of faithful discipleship be grace-filled and purposeful, drawing us ever deeper into a lived relationship with the Lord and the quiet assurance of His abiding presence with us throughout the year to come. 🙏🏽

Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖

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

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

Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation | Global Missions Now Awards |
https://youtu.be/gB31nuOFx0A?si=mSoZs-wiByhGs

North Texas Catholic Magazine | Dr. Philomena Ikowe – Life on Purpose (pages 44-45) | https://www.flipsnack.com/A9DFE877C6F/north-texas-catholic-magazine-mar-apr-issue-2025/full-view.html

Dr. Philomena Ikowe and Her Joyful Catholic Witness | Lights, Catholic, Action! | Podcast Interview | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/dr-philomena-ikowe-and-her-joyful-catholic-witness/


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