FRIDAY OF THE TWENTY-SECOND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME | YEAR A | SEPTEMBER 4, 2026

FRIDAY OF THE TWENTY-SECOND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME | YEAR A | SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/friday-of-the-twenty-second-week-in-ordinary-time-year-a-september-4-2026/

SAINTS OF THE DAY | SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-september-4th/

MEMORIAL OF SAINT ROSALIA, VIRGIN; SAINT ROSE OF VITERBO, RELIGIOUS; BLESSED DINA BELANGER, RELIGIOUS AND BLESSED MARY STELLA AND HER TEN COMPANIONS, MARTYRS (MARTYRS OF NOWOGRÓDEK)

HISTORY OF THE SAINTS SERIES ON YOUTUBE CHANNEL | https://www.youtube.com/@dailyreflectionswithphilomena

👉🏾 Watch the YouTube Video of Saint Rosalia, Saint Rose of Viterbo, Blessed Dina Bélanger, and Blessed Mary Stella and Her Ten Companions Here | https://youtu.be/jhozy5fpQyg?si=sY8vDbVP6VtbvU0K

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

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | September 4, 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-september-4-2026/

FIRST FRIDAYS AND FIRST SATURDAYS DEVOTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/02/01/first-fridays-and-first-saturdays-devotions/

FIRST FRIDAYS DEVOTION: https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/03/first-friday-devotion-to-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus/

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Greetings and blessings, beloved family!

Today, on Friday of the Twenty-Second Week in Ordinary Time, we also mark the First Friday of the month, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, we are invited to contemplate Christ’s boundless love poured out for humanity, to make reparation for sins, and to grow in trust and fidelity. The Gospel reminds us that the grace of Christ is like “new wine” requiring “fresh wineskins” hearts that are open, humble, and renewed by the Holy Spirit. In the First Reading, Saint Paul reminds us that we are “stewards of the mysteries of God,” called to remain faithful and leave all judgment to the Lord. Today, we honor Saint Rosalia, who fled worldly vanity for a life of prayer in the solitude of Mount Pellegrino; Saint Rose of Viterbo, a fearless teenage Franciscan tertiary who preached repentance with miraculous zeal; Blessed Dina Bélanger, a gifted pianist and religious sister who transformed her physical suffering into a continuous song of praise; and Blessed Mary Stella and Her Ten Companions, the Martyrs of Nowogródek, who offered their lives to save innocent townspeople during World War II. Inspired by their holiness, courage, and self-sacrificing love, let us allow God to renew our minds and make us trustworthy stewards of His grace.

BIBLE READINGS FOR TODAY’S HOLY MASS:

Twenty-second Week in Ordinary Time | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading

Today’s Bible Readings for Friday, September 4, 2026 | Friday of the Twenty-Second Week in Ordinary Time
Reading 1: 1 Corinthians 4:1-5
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 37:3-4, 5-6, 27-28, 39-40
Gospel: Luke 5:33-39

Gospel Reading ~ Luke 5:33-39

“New wine must be poured into fresh wineskins.”

“The scribes and Pharisees said to Jesus, ‘The disciples of John the Baptist fast often and offer prayers, and the disciples of the Pharisees do the same; but yours eat and drink.’ Jesus answered them, ‘Can you make the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, and when the bridegroom is taken away from them, then they will fast in those days.’ And he also told them a parable. ‘No one tears a piece from a new cloak to patch an old one. Otherwise, he will tear the new and the piece from it will not match the old cloak. Likewise, no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the new wine will burst the skins, and it will be spilled, and the skins will be ruined. Rather, new wine must be poured into fresh wineskins. And no one who has been drinking old wine desires new, for he says, “The old is good.”‘ “

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS

In today’s Gospel, the scribes and Pharisees question Jesus on why His disciples feast and celebrate while the disciples of John the Baptist and the Pharisees observe strict fasting and prayer rituals. Jesus responds by revealing His identity as the Divine Bridegroom. The presence of Christ brings joy, grace, and fulfillment; while the Bridegroom is with them, it is a time of wedding celebration rather than mourning. Jesus then uses the parables of the new cloak and the new wine to explain that the Kingdom of God cannot simply be patched onto rigid, legalistic traditions or old mindsets. The grace and transformation offered by the Gospel are like “new wine” vibrant, expanding, and dynamic, which requires “fresh wineskins”: open, humble, and renewed hearts capable of receiving Christ’s truth.

In the First Reading, Saint Paul instructs the Corinthians on how Christians should view ministers and leaders, not as celebrities or human authorities to be judged, but as “servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.” Paul stresses that the primary requirement of a steward is to be found trustworthy. He warns against passing harsh judgment on others or engaging in human tribunals, reminding us that ultimate judgment belongs solely to the Lord, who “will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will manifest the motives of our hearts.” The Responsorial Psalm echoes this deep reliance on divine justice, assuring us that “The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.” When we commit our ways to God, turn away from evil, and take refuge in Him, He acts as our defense and grants peace to our souls.

Together, these scriptures call us to examine the state of our hearts. Are we clinging to rigid habits, self-righteous judgments, or old ways of thinking that prevent us from experiencing the freshness of Christ’s grace? As stewards of God’s mysteries, we are called to serve faithfully without fear of human opinion, trusting that the Lord sees our true motives. By allowing the Holy Spirit to expand and renew our minds into “fresh wineskins,” we become ready to receive the rich, new wine of His divine life and joy.

Are there “old wineskins” in your life, such as stubborn habits, rigid attitudes, or past grudges, that you need to surrender so God can pour in His new grace? How can you live more faithfully as a trustworthy steward of God’s gifts today?

Heavenly Father, Lord of heaven and earth, we thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, as our Divine Bridegroom. Forgive us for the times we cling to old habits, self-righteous judgments, and human traditions that block the movement of Your Holy Spirit. Create in us clean and supple hearts, capable of receiving the dynamic grace and truth of the Gospel. Help us to live as faithful and trustworthy stewards of Your mysteries, seeking only Your approval and not the praise or judgment of the world. Reveal and purify the motives of our hearts, and grant us grace to take refuge in You at all times. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINTS OF THE DAY | SEPTEMBER 4TH:

Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Rosalia, Saint Rose of Viterbo, Blessed Dina Bélanger, and Blessed Mary Stella and Her Ten Companions | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-september-4th/

SAINT ROSALIA, VIRGIN (1130–1166): Saint Rosalia was born into a noble Norman family in Palermo, Sicily, and was a descendant of Charlemagne. From a young age, she turned away from worldly vanities and desired only Christ. Seeking solitude, she lived as a hermitess in caves on Mount Pellegrino, practicing severe penance and deep prayer. On the cave wall, she inscribed her resolution: “I, Rosalia, daughter of Sinibald, Lord of Roses and Quisquina, have taken the resolution to live in this cave for the love of my Lord, Jesus Christ.” After her death in obscurity, her relics were miraculously discovered in 1625 during a plague in Palermo. Carried in procession through the city, her relics became the instrument of healing, and the plague ceased. To this day, Palermo honors her as its patroness, with Mount Pellegrino remaining a place of pilgrimage. She is also invoked against plagues and epidemics.

PRAYER: Lord God, You inspired Saint Rosalia to seek You alone in prayer and penance. Through her intercession, grant us the grace to turn away from vanity and to find our joy in You alone. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT ROSE OF VITERBO, RELIGIOUS (1233–1251): Saint Rose was born in Viterbo, Italy, and from childhood was marked by extraordinary holiness and spiritual gifts. At just nine, she became a Third Order Franciscan and soon began preaching repentance, urging her city to remain faithful to the Pope in the face of Emperor Frederick II’s opposition to the Church. Though only a child, she drew crowds with her fiery words, miracles, and unwavering courage. Exiled for her preaching, Rose continued her mission wherever she went. She once stood unharmed in a burning pyre for three hours, leading many to conversion. At fifteen, she sought admission to the Poor Clares but was rejected for lack of a dowry — yet she humbly accepted God’s will. She died shortly after at only eighteen, her body remaining incorrupt to this day. Canonized in 1457, she is the patron saint of florists, flower growers, those rejected by religious orders, and the city of Viterbo.

PRAYER: Almighty Father, You raised Saint Rose as a fearless witness to the truth of the Gospel. Grant that we may follow her example in courage, humility, and zeal for Your Church. Amen. 🙏🏾

BLESSED DINA BÉLANGER, RELIGIOUS (1897–1929): Blessed Dina Bélanger, also known by her religious name Marie of Saint Cecilia of Rome, was born in Quebec, Canada. A gifted pianist, she dedicated her talent to glorifying God and became a Sister of Jesus and Mary. Despite fragile health and her battle with tuberculosis, she radiated joy, serenity, and holiness. Dina’s autobiography recounts mystical visions and her deep union with Christ, marked by simplicity and trust. She offered her life as a sacrifice of love, embracing suffering with peace. Beatified in 1993 by Pope John Paul II, she is honored as the patron of musicians and a model of youthful holiness.

PRAYER: Loving Lord, You filled Blessed Dina with a spirit of joy and devotion in the midst of suffering. Grant that, through her intercession, we may use our gifts to glorify You and live with unwavering faith. Amen. 🙏🏾

BLESSED MARY STELLA AND HER TEN COMPANIONS, MARTYRS (d. 1943): The Martyrs of Nowogródek were eleven Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth who lived in Nowogródek (present-day Belarus). During World War II, they served faithfully by teaching, praying, and caring for their community. In July 1943, when the Gestapo arrested over 120 townspeople, the Sisters prayed that their lives might be offered in exchange for those of the prisoners. Their prayer was answered the men were spared, but on August 1, 1943, the Sisters were taken into the woods, executed, and buried in a shallow grave. Their sacrifice became a powerful testimony of love, courage, and faith. Beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2000, they remind us that true discipleship sometimes calls for the ultimate gift of life itself.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, You strengthened Blessed Mary Stella and her Companions to lay down their lives for others. Grant us the courage to bear witness to Your love, even in times of trial. Amen. 🙏🏾

Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Rosalia, Saint Rose of Viterbo, Blessed Dina Bélanger, and Blessed Mary Stella and Her Ten Companions ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏾

HONORING THE SAINTS OF THE DAY:
Alongside Saint Rosalia, Saint Rose of Viterbo, Blessed Dina Bélanger, and Blessed Mary Stella and Her Ten Companions, we also honor: SAINT CALETRICUS, SAINT CANDIDA THE ELDER, SAINT HERMIONE, SAINT MAGNUS, SAINT MARINUS, SAINT MONESSA, SAINT RHUDDLAD, SAINTS RUFINUS, SILVANUS, AND VICTALICUS, SAINT SALVINUS, SAINTS THAMEL & COMPANIONS, SAINT THEODORE, AND SAINT ULTAN OF ARDBRACCAN. May their faithful lives inspire our own journey today.

PRAYER INTENTION: FOR RENEWAL OF HEART, PERSEVERANCE IN SUFFERING, SPIRITUAL ZEAL, AND SELFLESS LOVE

Heavenly Father, as we continue our journey through this week, we draw near to You with open and humble hearts. Through the intercession of Saint Rosalia, deliver us from worldly vanity and grant us the grace to seek our ultimate joy in You alone. Through the prayers of Saint Rose of Viterbo, grant our youth and all believers fearless zeal, humility, and unwavering loyalty to the truth of the Gospel. Through the intercession of Blessed Dina Bélanger, comfort the sick, strengthen those suffering from terminal illness, and inspire artists and musicians to use their talents for Your glory. Through the courage of Blessed Mary Stella and her Ten Companions, grant us a spirit of selfless love and sacrifice, so that we may lay down our pride for the good of others. Lord, pour Your new wine into our hearts, make us trustworthy stewards of Your mysteries, and keep us steadfast under Your divine protection. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Rosalia, Saint Rose of Viterbo, Blessed Dina Bélanger, Blessed Mary Stella and Her Ten Companions, and all the Saints we celebrate today ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽

THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2026: FOR THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER: For the care of water. Let us pray for a just and sustainable management of water, a vital resource, so that everyone may have equal access to it.

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

DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER | MONTH OF OUR LADY OF SORROWS: September is dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows, inviting us to unite our hearts with Mary in her profound sharing of Christ’s Passion. As Simeon foretold, “a sword will pierce your own soul too” (Luke 2:35), and throughout her life Mary endured deep sorrows that culminated at Calvary. In her silent strength and unwavering faith, she became the compassionate Mother of all Christians, offering her suffering with Christ for the salvation of the world.

This month, the Church calls us to meditate on the Seven Sorrows of Mary: Simeon’s prophecy, the Flight into Egypt, the loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple, meeting Jesus on the way to Calvary, standing at the foot of the Cross, receiving His lifeless Body, and placing Him in the tomb. By reflecting on these sorrows, we learn patience in trials, compassion for the suffering, and a deeper love for Jesus who suffered for us.

Prayers such as the Chaplet of the Seven Sorrows, the Rosary of Our Lady of Sorrows, and the Litany of Our Lady of Sorrows help us to walk with Mary in her suffering and to discover hope and consolation in her maternal heart.

“Most Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, teach us to stand with you at the Cross, sharing in Christ’s love and redemptive sacrifice.”

Our Lady of Sorrows, pray for us. Amen 🙏🏾

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/month.cfm?y=2026&m=9

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

Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖

DEVOTIONAL RESOURCES

A Guide to Catholic Prayer & Faith Resources: Prayers, Devotions, Teachings, and the Liturgical Year | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-prayer-faith-resources/

Catholic Mission & Witness: Foundations, Media Features, Global Outreach and Podcast Interview | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-mission-witness-foundations-media-features-and-global-outreach/

DAILY PRAYERS: St. Michael the Archangel Prayer; Angelus Prayer; and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy Prayer | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/st-michael-the-archangel-prayer-angelus-prayer-and-the-chaplet-of-divine-mercy-prayer-2/

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

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

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