FEAST OF SAINT JAMES, APOSTLE, AND SAINT CHRISTOPHER, MARTYR |

FRIDAY OF THE SIXTEENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

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

FEAST OF SAINT JAMES, APOSTLE, AND SAINT CHRISTOPHER, MARTYR | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint James and Saint Christopher| https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-july-25th/ )

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | July 25, 2025 | “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-daily-mass-139/

Greetings and blessings, beloved family!

Today is Friday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time! We give thanks to God for the gift of life and the grace to see this month. During this month of July, may the Precious Blood of Jesus cover and protect us, heal our wounds, and strengthen our faith. We pray for all those celebrating their birthdays, anniversaries, new beginnings, and special moments in this month of July. May God’s blessings overflow in their lives. May this month bring peace to troubled hearts, direction to the lost, comfort to the grieving, and strength to the weary. In all things, may His will be done and His name be glorified. Amen🙏🏽

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

We pray for the sick and dying. We especially pray for our loved ones who have recently died and we continue to pray for the repose of their gentle souls and the 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 through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ… Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯

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

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 & the Holy Spirit forever & ever. Amen 🙏🏽

On this special feast day, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, we humbly pray for justice, peace, love and unity in our families and our divided and conflicted world today. We continue to pray for all families and for the safety and well-being of our children and children all over the world. We pray for all those who are marginalized in our society, the poor and the needy. We pray for the Church, the Clergy, our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, the Cardinals, Bishops, all Priests, that they be sanctified in their ministry to God’s people. We pray for persecuted Christians, for the conversion of sinners, and Christians all over the world suffering from political and religious unrest. May God protect us all and keep united in peace, love and faith. Amen 🙏🏽

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

LIST OF ALL NOVENAS | Month of July | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/list-of-all-novenas-july/

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

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

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

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

Today’s Bible Readings:
Feast of Saint James, Apostle | July 25, 2025
Reading 1: 2 Corinthians 4:7–15
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 126:1bc-2ab, 2cd-3, 4-5, 6
Gospel: Matthew 20:20–28

Gospel Reading: Matthew 20:20–28

“Whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant.”

“The mother of the sons of Zebedee approached Jesus with her sons and did him homage, wishing to ask him for something. He said to her, “What do you wish?” She answered him, “Command that these two sons of mine sit, one at your right and the other at your left, in your Kingdom.” Jesus said in reply, “You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?” They said to him, “We can.” He replied, “My chalice you will indeed drink, but to sit at my right and at my left, this is not mine to give but is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” When the ten heard this, they became indignant at the two brothers. But Jesus summoned them and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and the great ones make their authority over them felt. But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave. Just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

In today’s Gospel, as we celebrate the feast of Saint James the Apostle, the mother of James and John approaches Jesus with an ambitious request that her sons may sit beside Him in His kingdom. It’s a deeply human plea: to be close to power, to be rewarded for loyalty. But Jesus gently redirects her and them to a deeper truth. Greatness in His Kingdom is not measured by status or proximity to a throne, but by humility, service, and sacrifice. Jesus asks, “Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?” It’s a piercing question that echoes to us today. The chalice He refers to is His Passion His suffering, surrender, and death for the sake of others. James and John reply, “We can.” They do not yet fully grasp the weight of their answer, but in time, especially Saint James whose feast we celebrate today will indeed drink of this cup, giving his life in witness to the Gospel. According to the Gospels, James and his brother John, along with Peter and his brother Andrew, were the first to be called by Jesus to follow him. All four were fishermen, and the father of James and John, Zebedee, seems to have had a thriving fishing business because the Gospels refer to him as having hired men working for him. James and John were among the twelve that Jesus chose from His wider group of disciples. According to the Gospels, Jesus took Peter, James and John up the Mount of Transfiguration and He brought the same three with him into the garden of Gethsemane. So, James was one of three disciples who had privileged access to Jesus. Yet, according to today’s Gospel reading, working through their mother, James and his brother John approach Jesus looking for the best seats in the kingdom! For all their special access to Jesus, neither of them seemed to have grasped that following Jesus had nothing to do with seats of honour and everything to do with being ready to drink the cup that Jesus had to drink, the cup of suffering. James went on to drink that cup of suffering. In Acts of the Apostles, King Herod Agrippa persecuted the church in Judea and had James killed with a sword. He was the first member of the twelve to die for his faith in the Lord. According to an ancient tradition his bones were brought from Jerusalem to Compostella in North West Spain, as a result of which Compostela has been a place of pilgrimage for the past thousand years or more. The Gospel reading today suggests that James initially struggled to grasp what was at the heart of Jesus’ message and life; his request of Jesus for the best seats in Jesus’ kingdom was full of self. Yet, James went on to empty himself for Jesus and to bear powerful witness to the values of the Gospel by his life and his death. He is an encouragement to us all; he shows us that even if we do not get it right initially, we can come good in the end.

In our Gospel today, the question the two disciples, James and John, ask Jesus through their mother focuses on glory, honour, status. The question that Jesus asks James and John focuses on the experience of rejection and suffering that he is about to face into, ‘Can you drink the cup that I must drink, or be baptized with the baptism with which I must be baptized?’ Jesus was referring to the cup of suffering and the baptism of fire. The question of James and John showed their interest in self-promotion. The question of Jesus showed that His priority was self-giving. At the heart of being His disciple is self-giving love, becoming the servant of others, and this will often mean taking the way of the cross, as Jesus knew from his own experience. James and John, and all of us, are being called to follow the one who did not come to be served but to serve, whose purpose in life was not to promote Himself but to empty Himself for others. It is only in following this way that we will receive that share in Jesus’ glory that was the focus of James and John’s request. In the end, James drank the cup of suffering that Jesus had to drink. Reflecting on the Gospel, Jesus redefines leadership and authority not as domination, but as self-giving love: “The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” This call to servanthood is not optional for Christians, it is the path of discipleship. We are called to step away from ambition and ego, and instead embrace the humility of Christ, finding greatness in pouring ourselves out for others.

In our first reading, Saint Paul reminds us that we carry the treasure of the Gospel in fragile vessels our human weakness. Afflicted but not crushed, struck down but not destroyed we are sustained not by our strength, but by the surpassing power of God. This passage speaks powerfully to anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by the weight of discipleship. Like Saint James, we too are called to live with courageous faith, even in suffering. Our wounds become channels of grace when united with the dying and rising of Jesus. St. Paul assures us: “The one who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus.” This is our hope. Our trials are not the end; they are part of a greater story of resurrection.

Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, “Those who sow in tears shall reap rejoicing.” The psalmist’s words beautifully capture the spiritual truth of Christian suffering: sorrow is not the final word. Those who walk through the valley of tears with faith will one day return carrying sheaves of joy. Like Saint James, and so many witnesses before us, we are sowing seeds in the soil of sacrifice, and God promises a harvest of grace.

As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we are challenged to ask: Are we ready to drink the cup of Christ embracing sacrifice, humility, and service without seeking recognition? Do we still strive for status, or have we learned to lead by serving others? In times of weakness or trial, do we allow God’s power to shine through us as “earthen vessels”? And when faced with sorrow or setbacks, do we still believe that those who sow in tears will reap with joy? Today’s readings call us to a radical redefinition of greatness, one rooted in humility, service, and faithful endurance. In Saint James, we see someone who journeyed from ambition to martyrdom, from misunderstanding to total surrender. His life encourages us to say “yes” to Christ’s invitation even when the cup we are handed is difficult to bear. As disciples, may we embrace our vocation to serve, not to be served. May we live with courage in the face of affliction, trusting that God is working through our weakness. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace and may we fix our eyes on the joy of the resurrection, knowing that those who sow in tears will indeed reap rejoicing. 🙏🏾

Lord Jesus, You came not to be served but to serve, and to give Your life for the salvation of the world. Teach us to follow in Your footsteps with humility and love. Like Saint James, help us to embrace the chalice You offer with faith and courage. When we are weak, remind us that Your strength is enough. May we be faithful stewards of the treasure You have placed within us, and live our days in service to Your Kingdom. Amen. 🙏🏾

FEAST OF SAINT JAMES, APOSTLE, AND SAINT CHRISTOPHER, MARTYR ~ FEAST DAY: JULY 25TH: Today, we honor two great saints of the Church Saint James (Patron of Spain, pilgrims, laborers, and arthritis sufferers), one of the Twelve Apostles and the first to be martyred, and Saint Christopher (Patron of travelers, motorists, bachelors, and those with epilepsy or toothaches), the beloved martyr and legendary Christ-bearer. On this feast day, we ask for their intercession, especially for travelers, the sick, and those burdened with suffering. May they pray for those with terminal illnesses, epilepsy, arthritis, and dental conditions; for all children and those in danger; for peace in our world and unity in our families; and for the Church, her clergy, and the conversion of sinners.

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

(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint James and Saint Christopher | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-july-25th/ )

SAINT JAMES, APOSTLE: Saint James, known as the Greater to distinguish him from the other Apostle James, was the brother of Saint John the Evangelist and the son of Zebedee and Salome. He was a fisherman by trade until Jesus called him to become a fisher of men. Along with Peter and John, James formed part of Jesus’ inner circle, witnessing pivotal moments such as the Transfiguration and the Agony in the Garden. Christ gave James and John the nickname Boanerges“sons of thunder”for their zeal and fervent spirit.

After Pentecost, James is believed to have preached the Gospel in Spain. Upon returning to Jerusalem, he was arrested and became the first Apostle to be martyred, beheaded by the order of King Herod Agrippa around 44 AD. His relics are venerated in Santiago de Compostela in Spain, a major pilgrimage destination for centuries. His unwavering witness invites us to courageously live our faith, drink from the cup of Christ, and trust in the hope of eternal life.

PRAYER: O glorious Saint James, you left everything to follow Jesus and bore witness to Him even unto death. Pray for us, that we may be strong in our trials, firm in faith, and courageous in love. May your example help us walk the pilgrim path with joy and endurance. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT CHRISTOPHER, MARTYR: Saint Christopher is honored as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers, a group of saints invoked during times of great need. Though little is historically certain about his life, tradition tells us he was a man of great strength who devoted himself to serving others. He is most remembered for carrying travelers across a dangerous river until one day, he bore a small Child who grew increasingly heavy with every step. That Child revealed Himself as Christ, saying, “You have borne not only the world, but the One who created it.” Hence his name, Christopher meaning “Christ-bearer.”

Christopher suffered martyrdom under the Roman emperor Decius in the 3rd century. He became a symbol of strength, protection, and faithful service. Though his official status was later revised in the Church’s calendar, he remains a powerful figure of devotion and is widely honored around the world, especially by travelers and those facing perilous journeys.

PRAYER: Almighty God, You gave Saint Christopher the strength to carry Christ and the courage to die for His name. Grant us safe travels, enduring faith, and the grace to carry Christ in our hearts wherever we go. Amen. 🙏🏾

Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint James and Saint Christopher ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽

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

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

THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF JULY: For formation in discernment. Let us pray that we might again learn how to discern, to know how to choose paths of life and reject everything that leads us away from Christ and the Gospel.

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

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

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

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

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

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

PRAYER INTENTIONS: On this Feast of Saint James the Apostle and Saint Christopher the Martyr, we lift our hearts in prayer for all who journey through trials, carrying the weight of suffering, duty, or discipleship. May those who serve others with humility and courage especially caregivers, missionaries, and travelers be strengthened in faith. We pray for the sick and suffering, particularly those battling terminal illnesses, arthritis, epilepsy, and chronic pain, that they may find hope and healing. For children, motorists, laborers, and those constantly on the move, may Saint Christopher intercede for their safety and guidance. Through the witness of Saint James, may we have the courage to serve sacrificially and persevere in proclaiming the Gospel. We also remember persecuted Christians, the clergy, and all who walk the path of faith amid adversity. May our lives echo the joy and trust shown in today’s Psalm, as we sow seeds of hope and reap a harvest of grace.

LET US PRAY

My glorious King, You invite all people to share in Your glorious Kingdom to come. May I enter that Kingdom with all the saints and fully share in its glory. I choose that path that leads to that Kingdom and willingly offer my life in sacrifice to You and for others. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽

Almighty God, through the faithful witness of Saint James and the enduring strength of Saint Christopher, teach us to serve rather than to be served. Give us the grace to carry our daily burdens with love, just as Saint Christopher carried Christ across the waters, and to embrace the call to suffer for Christ as Saint James did. May our hearts remain steadfast in trials and generous in love, always finding joy in serving Your kingdom. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.🙏🏾

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint James and Saint Christopher ~ 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 as we now enter the gentle rhythm of Ordinary Time, may our hearts remain open to the quiet working of the Holy Spirit who continues to guide, renew, and strengthen us each day. May this new month be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ walks with us always. Alleluia! Have a blessed, safe, grace-filled Friday and relaxing weekend 🙏🏽

Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖

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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