MEMORIAL OF SAINT BENEDICT BISCOP, ABBOT AND SAINT MARGUERITE, BOURGEOYS, RELIGIOUS AND FOUNDRESS | JANUARY 12TH 2026

MONDAY OF THE FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: JANUARY 12, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

MEMORIAL OF SAINT BENEDICT BISCOP, ABBOT AND SAINT MARGUERITE, BOURGEOYS, RELIGIOUS AND FOUNDRESS | JANUARY 12TH | Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Benedict Biscop, and Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-january-12th/

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | January 12, 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-12-2026/

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 invites us to reflect on the call to faith, trust, and discipleship. In the First Reading, we witness Hannah’s heartfelt longing and prayer, a testament to steadfast faith amid trials and disappointment. The Responsorial Psalm reminds us that offering ourselves to the Lord in gratitude and devotion is a sacred act of love. In the Gospel, we see Jesus calling His first disciples by the Sea of Galilee, inviting ordinary fishermen to leave their nets and follow Him, becoming “fishers of men.” Their immediate response challenges us to consider our own openness to God’s call and our willingness to trust Him fully. As we honor the Memorial of Saint Benedict Biscop and Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys today, we are encouraged to imitate their dedication to learning, service, and holiness, allowing God to guide our hearts and hands in faithful discipleship.

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: Monday of the First Week in Ordinary Time | January 12, 2026
Reading 1: 1 Samuel 1:1–8
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 116:12–13, 14–17, 18–19
Gospel: Mark 1:14–20

Gospel Reading ~ Mark 1:14–20

“Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

In today’s Gospel, we witness the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry in Galilee following John’s arrest. He proclaims the nearness of God’s Kingdom: “Repent, and believe in the Gospel.” This call is not abstract or distant; it reaches into the ordinary lives of Simon, Andrew, James, and John. These fishermen, absorbed in their daily work, respond immediately to Christ’s invitation, leaving nets, family, and livelihood behind to follow Him. Their prompt and radical response models the obedience and trust that God desires from each of us.

The Gospel reminds us that Jesus calls us personally, inviting us into a transformative relationship that reshapes our priorities and purpose. Following Christ is not always comfortable or convenient; it asks for trust, surrender, and courage to step beyond what is familiar. Yet, in doing so, we are drawn into His mission of bringing light, hope, and salvation to others—becoming, as He promised, “fishers of men.”

In the First Reading, we encounter Hannah’s profound struggle. Childless and deeply grieved, she pours out her heart to God, refusing to let sorrow harden her faith. Her husband Elkanah’s love offers comfort, but ultimately, it is Hannah’s unwavering devotion and prayer that open the way for God’s blessing. This reading invites us to bring our deepest pains and longings honestly before the Lord, trusting that He hears and responds according to His will.

The Responsorial Psalm beautifully echoes this attitude of trust and gratitude. “To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.” Our lives, like Hannah’s, become offerings to God when we respond with faith, hope, and thanksgiving—even amid struggles or unmet desires. God values the sincerity of the heart, and our trust in Him becomes a channel for His grace to work wonders.

As we reflect on these readings, we are invited to examine our own openness to God’s call. Do we respond with immediate faith, like the first disciples, or hesitate because of comfort, fear, or attachment to worldly routines? Are we willing to bring our burdens and longings to God as Hannah did, confident in His listening presence? Today’s readings remind us that God meets us in the ordinary moments of life, calls us to follow Him with trust, and transforms our daily work and struggles into instruments of His Kingdom. May we courageously leave behind what hinders us and follow Christ with hearts open to His will and mercy. 🙏🏽

Lord Jesus, You call each of us by name to follow You and participate in Your mission. Help us to respond with the trust and generosity of Simon, Andrew, James, and John. Give us hearts like Hannah, who poured out her sorrow before You in faith, and teach us to offer our lives as a sacrifice of praise. Strengthen our faith, guide our steps, and make us instruments of Your love and light in the world. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

MEMORIAL OF SAINT BENEDICT BISCOP, ABBOT; SAINT MARGUERITE BOURGEOYS, RELIGIOUS AND FOUNDRESS – FEAST DAY: JANUARY 12TH: Today, the Church commemorates the Memorial of Saint Benedict Biscop, Abbot (Patron of Monastic Learning and Liturgical Arts), and Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys, Religious and Foundress (Patron of Teachers, Education, and Service to the Poor). Though their vocations and eras differed, both saints bore witness to Christ through devotion to God, zeal for learning, and service to others. Their lives remind us that holiness is expressed both in cultivating wisdom and in compassionate action. As we honor their memory today, we are invited to imitate their dedication to God, their pursuit of knowledge, and their love for all in need.

Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections | January 12th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com

(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Benedict Biscop and Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-january-12th/)

SAINT BENEDICT BISCOP, ABBOT: Saint Benedict Biscop (628–690), sometimes called Bennet or Biscop Baducing, came from a noble family in Northumbria. At age 25, he made his first pilgrimage to Rome, returning inspired to deepen his knowledge of Scripture and monastic life. He made multiple trips to Rome, each time bringing back books, relics, and liturgical expertise to enrich the Church in England. Benedict founded the monastery of Monkwearmouth, later establishing another at Jarrow, introducing stone architecture, glasswork, and Roman liturgical practices to England. He educated monks, preserved sacred texts, and ensured the monastery became a center of learning and prayer. St. Benedict’s devotion to God and zeal for knowledge transformed the English Church, and after a period of severe illness, he died on January 12, 690.

PRAYER: Lord, in imitation of Saint Benedict Biscop, may we devote ourselves to learning, prayer, and the service of Your Church. Grant us zeal for holiness, love for sacred wisdom, and the courage to cultivate faith in all we do. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT MARGUERITE BOURGEOYS, RELIGIOUS AND FOUNDRESS: Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys (1620–1700) was a French nun and the founder of the Congregation of Notre Dame in Montreal, Canada. Devoted to the education of the poor and the needs of the marginalized, she crossed the Atlantic three times to establish schools and recruit teachers for her mission. In harsh conditions, she taught children of French and Indigenous communities, set up schools for immigrants, and ensured her sisters remained free to travel and educate beyond convent walls. Marguerite’s faith, resilience, and unwavering trust in God’s Providence helped build Montreal’s first educational and charitable institutions. She died on January 12, 1700, after decades of service and was canonized in 1982, becoming Canada’s first female saint.

PRAYER: O Mother Bourgeoys, you who devoted your life to teaching, service, and the care of the poor, guide us in faith, hope, and charity. May we follow your example of humility, generosity, and trust in God’s will, bringing light and love to all we encounter. Amen. 🙏🏾

Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Benedict Biscop, and Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys — 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 our prayers of gratitude and supplication, inspired by the witness of Saint Benedict Biscop and Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys. We pray for the grace to cultivate wisdom, faith, and devotion in our daily lives, following their example of steadfast love for God and zeal for learning and service. We ask for the courage to persevere in prayer and discipleship, like Hannah in the First Reading, trusting God’s timing and providence. May we, like the first disciples in the Gospel, hear Christ’s call and respond without hesitation, leaving behind what hinders us from serving Him fully. We pray for the needs of the Church and its leaders, for teachers and educators, for the poor and marginalized, and for all who strive to live lives of faith, hope, and charity.

LET US PRAY:

Lord Jesus, You call us to follow You with hearts open to Your word and hands ready to serve. Strengthen our faith, that we may trust Your plan as Hannah trusted Yours and answer Your call as the disciples did by the Sea of Galilee. Through the intercession of Saint Benedict Biscop and Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys, inspire us to seek wisdom, live in holiness, and serve those in need with generosity and love. May our lives reflect Your mercy, Your guidance, and Your joy, so that we may grow daily in faith, hope, and charity. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Benedict Biscop, and Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys ~ 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/