FEAST OF THE BLACK CHRIST OF ESQUIPULAS AND FEAST OF OUR LADY OF PROMPT SUCCOR | MEMORIAL OF SAINT PAUL OF THEBES, THE FIRST HERMIT; SAINT MAURUS OF SUBIACO, ABBOT; SAINT ARNOLD JANSSEN, PRIEST AND SAINT ITA (IDA), VIRGIN – FEAST DAY ~ JANUARY 15TH 2026

THURSDAY OF THE FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: JANUARY 15, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

FEAST OF THE BLACK CHRIST OF ESQUIPULAS AND FEAST OF OUR LADY OF PROMPT SUCCOR |

MEMORIAL OF SAINT PAUL OF THEBES, THE FIRST HERMIT; SAINT MAURUS OF SUBIACO, ABBOT; SAINT ARNOLD JANSSEN, PRIEST AND SAINT ITA (IDA), VIRGIN | JANUARY 15TH | Direct link to the detailed history of the Black Christ of Esquipulas, Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Saint Paul of Thebes, Saint Maurus of Subiaco, Saint Arnold Janssen, and Saint Ita | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-january-15th/

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | January 15, 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-15-2026/

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

Greetings and blessings, beloved family!

Today, Thursday of the First Week in Ordinary Time, the Church invites us to reflect on the mercy, obedience, and trust that shape an authentic relationship with God. In the Sacred Scriptures, we see a contrast between outward reliance on religious symbols and the inner faith that truly pleases the Lord, as well as the compassionate touch of Christ who restores the outcast and heals the broken. Alongside today’s readings, we commemorate the Feast of the Black Christ of Esquipulas, a powerful sign of Christ’s suffering love, and Our Lady of Prompt Succor, who reminds us of Mary’s swift and tender intercession. We also honor Saint Paul of Thebes, the first hermit; Saint Maurus of Subiaco, abbot and disciple of Saint Benedict; Saint Arnold Janssen, priest and missionary founder; and Saint Ita (Ida), virgin and spiritual mother of saints. United by faith and witness, today’s celebrations call us to a deeper trust in God’s mercy, a more obedient faith, and a compassionate heart shaped by Christ Himself. 🙏🏾

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: Thursday of the First Week in Ordinary Time | January 15, 2026
Reading 1: 1 Samuel 4:1–11
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 44:10–11, 14–15, 24–25
Gospel: Mark 1:40–45

Gospel Reading ~ Mark 1:40–45

“I do will it. Be made clean.”

A leper came to him and kneeling down begged him and said, “If you wish, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand, touched the leper, and said to him, “I do will it. Be made clean.” The leprosy left him immediately, and he was made clean. Then, warning him sternly, he dismissed him at once. Then he said to him, “See that you tell no one anything, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer for your cleansing what Moses prescribed; that will be proof for them.” The man went away and began to publicize the whole matter. He spread the report abroad so that it was impossible for Jesus to enter a town openly. He remained outside in deserted places, and people kept coming to him from everywhere.

A leper came to Jesus, kneeling before Him with a humble yet daring request: “If you wish, you can make me clean.” In the time of Jesus, leprosy was more than a physical illness; it was a social and religious isolation. Lepers were cut off from community, worship, and human touch. Yet this man approaches Jesus with faith, trusting not only in His power, but in His compassion. Moved with pity, Jesus does the unthinkable. He stretches out His hand and touches him. With a single word, healing takes place, and the man is restored.

This Gospel reveals the heart of Christ. Jesus does not heal from a distance; He draws near. He enters the woundedness of the man and restores his dignity before restoring his health. In doing so, Jesus shows us that God is not repelled by our brokenness. On the contrary, He is drawn to it. When we come to Him honestly, aware of our need and confident in His mercy, He responds with love that heals and renews.

However, after receiving this great gift, the healed man disobeys Jesus’ instruction to remain silent. Though his joy is understandable, his disobedience creates obstacles for Jesus’ ministry. This reminds us that gratitude must be accompanied by obedience. True faith listens as well as rejoices. Our encounters with Christ should not only excite us, but also shape our actions according to His will.

In the First Reading from the Book of Samuel, we encounter Israel’s defeat at the hands of the Philistines. Instead of examining their relationship with God, the people treat the Ark of the Covenant as a magical object meant to guarantee victory. Their reliance on symbols rather than sincere repentance leads to devastating loss. The Ark is captured, and Israel suffers greatly. This reading warns us against reducing faith to rituals without conversion. God cannot be manipulated; He desires obedience, humility, and trust.

The Responsorial Psalm gives voice to Israel’s pain and confusion. The people cry out, “Redeem us, Lord, because of your mercy.” Though they feel abandoned and disgraced, they do not lose hope in God’s compassion. This psalm reflects the cry of every human heart in moments of suffering, when prayers seem unanswered and God feels distant. Yet even in lament, there is faith. The psalm teaches us to bring our wounds honestly before God, trusting in His mercy even when we do not understand His ways.

Taken together, today’s readings invite us to examine the quality of our faith. Do we approach God with humility like the leper, trusting in His will? Or do we, like Israel, rely on outward signs while neglecting inner conversion? The Lord desires a faith that is living, obedient, and rooted in trust. He longs to touch our wounds, cleanse our hearts, and restore us not through rituals alone, but through a genuine relationship with Him.

As we reflect today, let us ask ourselves: Where do I need Christ’s healing touch in my life? Do I trust God’s mercy even in moments of defeat or silence? Am I willing to obey the Lord not only when it is easy, but also when it requires sacrifice? May today’s Scriptures lead us to deeper humility, sincere repentance, and unwavering trust in the God who heals, redeems, and restores.

Lord Jesus, You are moved with compassion when we come to You in our weakness. Touch our wounded hearts and cleanse us from all that separates us from You. Teach us to trust not in outward signs alone, but in a living and obedient faith. When we feel defeated or forgotten, remind us of Your mercy that never fails. Renew us by Your healing love and lead us to walk faithfully in Your will, today and always. Amen. 🙏🏽

FEAST OF THE BLACK CHRIST OF ESQUIPULAS AND OUR LADY OF PROMPT SUCCOR | MEMORIAL OF SAINT PAUL OF THEBES, THE FIRST HERMIT; SAINT MAURUS OF SUBIACO, ABBOT; SAINT ARNOLD JANSSEN, PRIEST; AND SAINT ITA (IDA), VIRGIN – FEAST DAY: JANUARY 15TH: Today, the Church commemorates a rich tapestry of faith and devotion: the Feast of the Black Christ of Esquipulas, a powerful symbol of Christ’s suffering love and mercy; Our Lady of Prompt Succor (Patroness of the City of New Orleans and the State of Louisiana), a title that proclaims Mary’s swift and motherly intercession; and the Memorial of Saint Paul of Thebes (Patron of the Clothing Industry and Weavers), the first hermit; Saint Maurus of Subiaco (Patron against Cold, Gout, and Hoarseness; Cobblers and Shoemakers), abbot and disciple of Saint Benedict; Saint Arnold Janssen (Founder of the Society of the Divine Word), missionary priest and founder; and Saint Ita (Ida) (Spiritual Mother of Saints; “Second Brigid” of Ireland), virgin and spiritual mother of saints. United across continents and centuries, these holy devotions and saints remind us that God’s grace reaches every culture, vocation, and generation, calling all people to repentance, trust, and faithful service. 🙏🏾

Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections | January 15th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com

(Direct link to the detailed history of the Black Christ of Esquipulas, Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Saint Paul of Thebes, Saint Maurus of Subiaco, Saint Arnold Janssen, and Saint Ita | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-january-15th/)

THE BLACK CHRIST OF ESQUIPULAS: The Black Christ of Esquipulas is a revered wooden crucifix carved from cedar wood in 1594 by Quirio Cataño and installed in Esquipulas, Guatemala, in 1595. Over time, the image darkened naturally, becoming a profound symbol of Christ’s solidarity with the suffering and oppressed. Countless miracles have been attributed to this image, drawing pilgrims from across Latin America and beyond. The devotion inspired the construction of the Cathedral Basilica of Esquipulas, inaugurated in 1758 and elevated to a basilica by the Vatican in 1968. Today, it remains one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Americas, second only to Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, through the Black Christ of Esquipulas, draw us closer to Your saving cross. Heal our wounds, strengthen our faith, and remind us that Your mercy knows no bounds. Amen. 🙏🏾

OUR LADY OF PROMPT SUCCOR: Devotion to Our Lady of Prompt Succor began in 1802 through the Ursuline Sisters in New Orleans, who entrusted their urgent needs to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Their prayers were swiftly answered, affirming Mary’s title as one who hastens to help her children. Her powerful intercession was later credited with saving New Orleans from destruction during the fire of 1788 and securing victory during the Battle of New Orleans in 1815. In 1928, the Holy See officially declared Our Lady of Prompt Succor the Patroness of New Orleans and Louisiana, where she continues to be lovingly honored.

Prayer: Our Lady of Prompt Succor, loving Mother, hasten to help us in our needs and protect us in times of danger. Lead us always to your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT PAUL OF THEBES, THE FIRST HERMIT: Saint Paul of Thebes (c. 230–341) is honored as the first Christian hermit. Fleeing persecution during the reign of Emperor Decius, he sought refuge in the Egyptian desert, where he lived a life of solitude, prayer, and penance for over ninety years. Sustained by God’s providence, Paul lived in deep communion with the Lord until his death at the age of 113. His holy life became known through Saint Anthony the Great, who visited him shortly before his death. Saint Paul’s witness laid the foundation for Christian monasticism.

Prayer: Saint Paul of Thebes, you chose God alone as your treasure. Teach us to seek the Lord above all things and to live lives rooted in prayer and trust. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT MAURUS OF SUBIACO, ABBOT: Saint Maurus of Subiaco was one of the earliest and most faithful disciples of Saint Benedict of Nursia. Entrusted to Benedict at a young age, Maurus grew in holiness through obedience and humility. He is remembered especially for the miracle in which, at Benedict’s command, he walked upon water to rescue the young monk Placid. Saint Maurus’ life exemplifies the Benedictine virtues of obedience, discipline, and faith rooted in love.

Prayer: Saint Maurus, faithful disciple and obedient servant, help us to trust God’s will and walk faithfully in obedience and humility. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT ARNOLD JANSSEN, PRIEST: Saint Arnold Janssen (1837–1909) was a German priest filled with missionary zeal and devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In response to anti-Catholic persecution and the Church’s missionary needs, he founded the Society of the Divine Word, as well as two religious congregations of sisters. His vision led to the spread of the Gospel across the world, with thousands of missionaries serving today in dozens of countries. He was canonized in 2003 by Pope Saint John Paul II.

Prayer: Saint Arnold Janssen, missionary of Christ, ignite in us a love for the Gospel and a willingness to serve wherever God calls us. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT ITA (IDA), VIRGIN: Saint Ita of Killeedy (d. 570), often called the “Second Brigid,” was a virgin and abbess in Ireland renowned for her wisdom, charity, and holiness. Born into nobility, she chose a life of consecration and founded a community dedicated to prayer and education. She was a spiritual guide to many, including Saint Brendan the Navigator. Her teachings emphasized pure faith, simplicity of life, and generosity of heart—virtues that continue to inspire the Church today.

Prayer: Saint Ita, woman of wisdom and holiness, help us to live with pure hearts, generous hands, and steadfast faith. Lead us closer to Christ each day. Amen. 🙏🏾

Our Blessed Mother Mary, the Black Christ of Esquipulas, Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Saint Paul of Thebes, Saint Maurus of Subiaco, Saint Arnold Janssen, and Saint Ita — 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: In today’s prayer intentions, we lift our hearts to the Lord who heals, restores, and redeems. We pray for the Church, that she may never rely on outward signs or human strength alone, but remain faithful in obedience, humility, and trust in God’s mercy, especially in times of trial and apparent defeat. Through the intercession of the Black Christ of Esquipulas, may all who suffer in body, mind, or spirit experience Christ’s compassionate touch and healing love. We pray for those who feel isolated, rejected, or forgotten—like the leper in today’s Gospel—that they may encounter dignity, hope, and restoration through Christ and through the loving care of the Christian community. Through Our Lady of Prompt Succor, we entrust to God all urgent needs and difficult situations, asking for her swift maternal intercession for families, communities, and nations facing hardship, conflict, illness, or disaster. We also remember those called to lives of prayer, consecration, and missionary service, inspired by Saint Paul of Thebes, Saint Maurus, Saint Arnold Janssen, and Saint Ita, that they may remain faithful witnesses of the Gospel in every circumstance. Finally, we pray for ourselves, that our faith may be sincere and obedient, our gratitude deep and humble, and our trust rooted firmly in the mercy of God who alone redeems and saves.

LET US PRAY:

Gracious and merciful God, You reveal Your power not through symbols alone, but through hearts that trust and obey You. As You cleansed the leper and restored him to life and community, cleanse us from all that separates us from You. Guard us from empty reliance on outward practices, and draw us into a living faith shaped by humility, repentance, and love. Through the intercession of Our Lady of Prompt Succor, hasten to our aid in every need; through the witness of Your saints, strengthen us to follow You faithfully. May we never doubt Your mercy, even in times of weakness or loss, but always place our hope in You who heal, redeem, and restore all things. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏾

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, the Black Christ of Esquipulas, Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Saint Paul of Thebes, Saint Maurus of Subiaco, Saint Arnold Janssen, and Saint Ita ~ 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/