MEMORIAL OF SAINT ADRIAN OF CANTERBURY, ABBOT AND SAINTS JULIAN AND BASILISSA, MARTYRS | JANUARY 9TH 2026

FRIDAY AFTER EPIPHANY

SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: JANUARY 9, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

MEMORIAL OF SAINT ADRIAN OF CANTERBURY, ABBOT AND SAINTS JULIAN AND BASILISSA, MARTYRS | JANUARY 9TH | Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Adrian of Canterbury, and Saints Julian and Basilissa | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-january-9th/

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | January 9, 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-9-2026/

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

Greetings and blessings, beloved family!

Today, the Church celebrates the Friday after Epiphany and commemorates the Memorial of Saint Adrian of Canterbury, Abbot (Patron of Scholars and Teachers), and Saints Julian and Basilissa, Martyrs (Patrons of Charity and Hospitals). In today’s readings, we are reminded that faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, brings victory over the world and grants eternal life. The Gospel recounts Jesus’ compassionate healing of the leper, showing His power to restore both body and soul. Like Saint Adrian, we are called to grow in wisdom and knowledge rooted in God’s love, while Saints Julian and Basilissa inspire us to serve the poor and suffering with generous hearts. As we reflect on these readings and holy witnesses, we are invited to deepen our faith, live in obedience to God’s commandments, and share His mercy with all those we encounter.

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, Friday after Epiphany | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading

Today’s Bible Readings: Friday after Epiphany | January 9, 2026
Reading 1: 1 John 5:5–13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 147:12–13, 14–15, 19–20
Gospel: Luke 5:12–16

Gospel Reading ~ Luke 5:12–16

“Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean.”

A man full of leprosy approaches Jesus, falls prostrate before Him, and makes a humble yet profound act of faith. He does not question Jesus’ power; instead, he entrusts himself completely to the Lord’s will. In response, Jesus does something extraordinary. He stretches out His hand and touches the man—an action forbidden by social and religious norms—and declares, “I do will it. Be made clean.” Immediately, the man is healed.

In today’s Gospel reading, we encounter a powerful revelation of Christ’s compassion and authority. Jesus does not recoil from human suffering or impurity; rather, He draws near, touches, and restores. The healing of the leper shows us that no condition is too broken, no wound too deep, and no person too unworthy of God’s mercy. Jesus’ touch does not make Him unclean; instead, His holiness brings healing and renewal. This encounter reminds us that Christ meets us not at a distance, but personally, right where our need is greatest.

The leper’s posture teaches us an important lesson about faith. He kneels in humility and speaks with trust: “If you wish.” True faith does not demand or control; it surrenders. It recognizes that God’s will flows from love and mercy. The man’s confidence in Jesus challenges us to approach the Lord with the same trust, bringing our weaknesses and struggles honestly before Him, believing that His will for us is always life-giving. After the healing, Jesus instructs the man to present himself to the priest, honoring the law of Moses, and to remain silent about the miracle. Yet the news spreads, and crowds gather in great numbers to hear Him and to be healed. Even amid growing fame and demand, Jesus withdraws to deserted places to pray. This detail reveals the heart of His ministry: intimate communion with the Father. It teaches us that effective service and authentic compassion must be rooted in prayer. Without prayer, even good works lose their grounding and strength.

In the First Reading, Saint John proclaims that victory over the world comes through faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God. He reminds believers that eternal life is not something distant or uncertain—it is already given to those who possess the Son. The Spirit, the water, and the Blood testify to this truth, affirming that salvation flows from Christ’s self-giving love. Faith, therefore, is not merely intellectual assent; it is a living relationship that transforms how we see ourselves and the world.

The Responsorial Psalm echoes this message of gratitude and praise. It celebrates the Lord who strengthens His people, grants peace, and makes His word known. God’s closeness and care are not abstract; they are concrete and personal. He speaks His word into our lives, bringing order, nourishment, and peace. Like the healed leper, we are invited to respond with praise and trust, acknowledging the Lord as the source of our healing and hope.

As we reflect on today’s Sacred Scriptures, we are invited to examine our own faith. Do we approach Jesus with humility and trust, confident in His mercy? Are we willing to allow Him to touch the areas of our lives that need healing? Do we make space for prayer, even amid busyness and responsibility? Today’s readings assure us that whoever believes in the Son has life. May we live in that confidence, drawing near to Christ, surrendering to His will, and allowing His healing love to renew us each day. 🙏🏽

Lord Jesus Christ, You are the Son of God who brings healing, forgiveness, and eternal life. With humble trust, we come before You as the leper did, confident not in our own strength but in Your mercy and will. Stretch out Your hand upon our lives and cleanse us of all that wounds us in body, mind, and spirit. Strengthen our faith, that we may overcome fear, doubt, and sin, and live in the victory You have won for us. Teach us to remain close to the Father in prayer, even as we serve others with compassion and love. May our lives bear witness to the life we possess in You, today and always. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

MEMORIAL OF SAINT ADRIAN OF CANTERBURY, ABBOT; SAINTS JULIAN AND BASILISSA, MARTYRS – FEAST DAY: JANUARY 9TH: Today, the Church commemorates the Memorial of Saint Adrian of Canterbury, Abbot (Patron of Scholars and Teachers); and Saints Julian and Basilissa, Martyrs (Patrons of Charity and Hospitals). Though their vocations and eras differed, each of these saints bore witness to Christ through learning, humility, and acts of mercy. Their lives remind us that sanctity is expressed both in the diligent cultivation of the mind and in loving service to those in need. As we honor their memory today, we are invited to emulate their dedication to God, faithfulness to His call, and compassionate care for others.

Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections | January 9th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com

(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Adrian of Canterbury, and Saints Julian and Basilissa | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-january-9th/)

SAINT ADRIAN OF CANTERBURY, ABBOT: Saint Adrian of Canterbury (d. 710 A.D.) was a North African scholar and holy man who accompanied his friend Theodore of Tarsus to England, where Theodore became Archbishop of Canterbury. Recognized for his wisdom, learning, and humility, Adrian was appointed Abbot of St. Augustine’s Abbey, Canterbury, where he oversaw a thriving monastic school that became a center for Latin, Greek, Scripture, theology, and the liberal arts. His teaching formed many future scholars, bishops, and abbots, and his guidance strengthened the Church in a time of growth and learning. Saint Adrian’s life exemplifies the harmony of intellect and faith, showing that holiness flourishes when knowledge is rooted in God’s love and service.

PRAYER: O God, who raised Saint Adrian to illuminate minds and hearts in Your service, grant that we may pursue learning with humility, teach with wisdom, and follow Your will with fidelity. Through his intercession, may we grow in faith, knowledge, and love. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINTS JULIAN AND BASILISSA, MARTYRS: Saint Julian and his wife Basilissa lived lives of extraordinary charity and devotion. Though married, they embraced a life of perpetual chastity and transformed their home into a hospital, caring for the sick and poor and sheltering hundreds in need. Their faithfulness inspired conversions and drew the ire of persecutors, yet they endured trials with courage and trust in God. Julian ultimately suffered martyrdom in 313, while Basilissa died peacefully after witnessing his sacrifice. Their example reminds us that holiness is found in generous service and selfless love, and that God honors faithful works with grace and blessing.

PRAYER: Lord, You glorified Saints Julian and Basilissa through their charity and martyrdom. May their intercession inspire us to love sacrificially, serve the needy faithfully, and persevere in holiness through trials. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏾

Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Adrian of Canterbury, and Saints Julian and Basilissa — 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: Let us pray for the Church and the world: for the grace to remain steadfast in faith, trusting in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior; for those who are sick, marginalized, or suffering, that God’s healing touch may restore them and strengthen their hope; for scholars, teachers, and all who labor in the pursuit of knowledge, that they may use their gifts for the glory of God and the good of others; and for hearts open to charity and mercy, inspired by the example of Saints Julian and Basilissa, that we may generously care for those in need and bear witness to God’s love in our families, communities, and workplaces.

LET US PRAY:

Lord Jesus, You are the Son of God who brings life, healing, and victory over the world. Strengthen our faith, that we may always rely on Your Word and obey Your commandments with love. Help us, like Saint Adrian, to grow in wisdom and humility, and guide us, like Saints Julian and Basilissa, to serve the poor and the suffering with generous hearts. May we seek You in prayer, recognize Your presence in every trial, and reflect Your mercy and compassion in all that we do. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Adrian of Canterbury, and Saints Julian and Basilissa ~ 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 completed, we begin this new year in the joy of the of Christmas season, with hearts open to the wondrous mystery of Christ’s birth. As a new year dawns, we pause to reflect with gratitude on all that has been, 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, born for us in humble love, bringing light, hope, and salvation to 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, joy, and hope that flow from the presence of Emmanuel, God-with-us, guide our steps, shape our decisions, and strengthen our resolve to live each day in love and holiness. Alleluia! May God bless all families and loved ones as we welcome the year ahead, and may His light shine brightly in every home. May these last days of the Christmas season be grace-filled and joyful, drawing us ever deeper into the mystery of the Lord’s Incarnation 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/