MEMORIAL OF SAINT BRIGID OF IRELAND, ABBESS AND VIRGIN: FEAST DAY ~ FEBRUARY 1ST 2026

FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

SAINTS OF THE DAY | FEBRUARY 1, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-february-1st/

MEMORIAL OF SAINT BRIGID OF IRELAND, ABBESS AND VIRGIN

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

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | February 1, 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-february-1-2026/

Greetings and blessings, beloved family!

In today’s Scripture readings on this Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time, we are called to humility, mercy, and righteousness: the prophet Zephaniah invites the lowly to seek refuge in the Lord, St. Paul reminds us that God chooses the weak and humble to shame the proud, and Jesus proclaims the Beatitudes as the path to true blessedness. Together, these readings remind us that authentic faith is lived not in power or prestige but in humility, mercy, and trust in God’s providence. Today, the Church commemorates the Memorial of Saint Brigid of Ireland, Abbess and Virgin (Patroness of Ireland, nuns, scholars, poets, and dairy workers), a woman of deep faith and generous heart who dedicated her life to prayer, service, and the Christian formation of communities. Through her leadership, humility, and courageous devotion, Saint Brigid recognized that the renewal of society begins with lives wholly surrendered to God and marked by charity toward the poor and vulnerable. As we reflect on God’s Word today, may the example of Saint Brigid inspire us to serve generously, embrace humility, and seek the Lord with hearts open to His guidance. 🙏🏽

Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day and for His faithful presence as we begin the month of February, we come before Him with hearts open to His continual guidance and grace. This month, traditionally dedicated to the Passion of Our Lord, invites us to turn our gaze toward the mystery of Christ’s suffering and self-giving love, offered for the redemption of mankind. As we begin to meditate on His Passion in anticipation of the sacred season of Lent, may the witness of the saints who held a deep devotion to Christ’s suffering, such as Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint John of the Cross, Saint Bridget of Sweden, and Saint Catherine of Siena inspire us to embrace each day with holiness, humility, and love. Through this devotion, may our hearts grow more attentive to the depth of Christ’s sacrifice and more responsive to His call to follow Him faithfully in our daily lives. 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.

BIBLE READINGS FOR TODAY’S HOLY MASS:

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

Today’s Bible Readings: Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time | February 1, 2026
Reading 1: Zephaniah 2:3; 3:12-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 146:6–7, 8–9, 9–10
Reading 2: 1 Corinthians 1:26–31
Gospel: Matthew 5:1–12a

Gospel Reading ~ Matthew 5:1–12a

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.”

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

In today’s Gospel, Jesus ascends the mountain, the traditional place of encounter with God not to issue a new set of impossible rules, but to reveal a new way of being. The Beatitudes are often called the “autobiography of Christ.” They describe the heart of Jesus Himself, and they serve as a roadmap for those who wish to follow Him. At first glance, the list seems paradoxical: How can those who mourn be “blessed”? How can the persecuted rejoice? Jesus is teaching us that true fulfillment (the “blessedness” or makarios) is found not in what we possess, but in our utter dependence on God.

The foundation of this life is being “poor in spirit.” This isn’t about material poverty alone, but an interior posture of humility, acknowledging that we are not self-sufficient and that every breath and grace comes from the Father. This echoes the First Reading from Zephaniah, where the prophet speaks of a “remnant” a people humble and lowly who take refuge in the name of the Lord. In a world that prizes self-promotion and power, God chooses to dwell with those who make room for Him through their humility.

The Responsorial Psalm reinforces this by showing God’s “active” preference. He is the God who secures justice for the oppressed, feeds the hungry, and protects the stranger. He is not a distant deity but a King who reigns forever by uplifting those whom the world has cast down.

The Second Reading provides a sharp reality check for our human pride. Paul reminds the Corinthians and us that God often bypasses the “wise” and “powerful” by human standards. Why? So that no one can boast in their own strength. Our worth is not found in our resumes, our status, or our intellect, but in our “calling” in Christ Jesus. When we realize that our righteousness and sanctification are gifts from Him, we stop trying to build our own little kingdoms and start seeking the Kingdom of Heaven.

Together, these readings invite us to a “holy shift” in perspective. We are called to stop measuring our success by the world’s yardstick of “strength” and start measuring it by our capacity to be merciful, to be peacemakers, and to hunger for what is right. The Beatitudes are not a burden; they are a promise that when we are at our emptiest, God is most ready to fill us.

As we reflect today, let us ask ourselves: Where am I still trying to “boast” in my own strength? Do I view my weaknesses as obstacles, or as the very places where God can manifest His power? Am I willing to be “lowly” enough to let the Lord be my refuge?

Let us pray: Lord Jesus, You sat upon the mountaintop to teach us the way to true happiness. Grant us the grace to be poor in spirit, that we may be filled with Your riches. Soften our hearts to be merciful, strengthen our wills to be peacemakers, and give us the courage to seek Your justice even when it is difficult. May we never boast in ourselves, but only in the Cross and the victory of Your love. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINTS OF THE DAY | FEBRUARY 1ST:

Link to Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections | February 1st https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com

Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Brigid of Ireland | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-february-1st/

SAINT BRIGID OF IRELAND, ABBESS AND VIRGIN: Saint Brigid of Ireland, also known as Brigid of Kildare, was a fifth-century virgin and abbess whose life of prayer, charity, and leadership played a vital role in the Christianization of Ireland. Born into humble and difficult circumstances, she grew in holiness through deep faith, generosity to the poor, and unwavering trust in God. From a young age, Brigid showed a remarkable compassion for the needy and a strong desire to consecrate her life entirely to Christ, choosing service and simplicity over comfort and status.

As a religious leader, Saint Brigid founded the monastery of Kildare, which became a great center of prayer, learning, and charity. Through her leadership, many religious communities flourished, forming both women and men in a life rooted in prayer and work. Known for her humility, hospitality, and love for creation, Saint Brigid embodied the Gospel values of meekness, mercy, and purity of heart. Her life reflected the Beatitudes proclaimed by Christ, showing that true strength is found in humility and true greatness in loving service. Her witness continues to inspire the Church to live the Gospel with generosity, courage, and joyful faith.

PRAYER: Lord God, You raised up Saint Brigid of Ireland as a faithful servant and spiritual mother to Your people. Through her intercession, grant that we may grow in humility, charity, and love for the poor and vulnerable. Kindle in our hearts a deeper love for prayer and a generous spirit of service, that we may faithfully reflect Your light in the world. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

Our Blessed Mother Mary and Saint Brigid of Ireland — pray for us. 🙏🏽

PRAYER INTENTION FOR THE DAY: FOR THE POOR, THE HUMBLE, AND THOSE SEEKING GOD’S REFUGE

Through the intercession of Saint Brigid of Ireland, let us pray for the poor, the lowly, and all who seek refuge in the name of the Lord. As we celebrate her memorial, we lift up those who feel overlooked, burdened, or powerless in society, that they may experience God’s justice, protection, and sustaining love. May the Lord strengthen those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, comfort those who mourn, and raise up all who trust in Him with humble hearts. Inspired by Saint Brigid’s life of generosity and service, may we become instruments of mercy, hospitality, and peace in our communities. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

PRAYER FOR PEACE | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/a-prayer-for-peace/

THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2026: FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY: For children with incurable diseases. Let us pray that children suffering from incurable diseases and their families receive the necessary medical care and support, never losing strength and hope.

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

DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY: MONTH OF THE PASSION OF OUR LORD: The month of February is traditionally dedicated to the Passion of Our Lord in anticipation of the liturgical season of Lent. In this month, we begin to meditate on the mystery of Jesus’ sufferings which culminated in his death on the Cross for the redemption of mankind. Saints who had a special devotion to Christ’s passion include St. Francis of Assisi, who was the first known saint to receive the stigmata; St. John of the Cross; St. Bridget of Sweden; and St. Catherine of Siena.

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12538

PRAYER FOR THE DEAD
We pray for the repose of the gentle souls of our loved ones and souls of all the faithful departed. 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 🙏🏽

As we step forward into this new month, may this Ordinary Time 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 onward, may God bless our families and loved ones, and may His light continue to shine brightly in every home. May the days of this new month 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 always. 🙏🏽

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, and Saint Brigid of Ireland ~ Pray for us 🙏🏾

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/