SECOND SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS – SOLEMNITY OF THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD
SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: JANUARY 4, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day
MEMORIAL OF SAINT ELIZABETH ANN SETON, RELIGIOUS | JANUARY 4TH| Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Religious | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-january-4th/
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | January 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-january-4-2026/
THE LITURGICAL YEAR IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/the-liturgical-year-in-the-catholic-church/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family!
Today, Sunday, January 4th, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord and commemorates the Memorial of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Religious. In today’s liturgy, Christ is revealed as the Light of the nations, drawing all peoples to Himself and inviting the world to worship and adore Him. At the same time, the life of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton bears witness to how this divine light continues to shine through faith, perseverance, and loving service, especially in times of trial. As we reflect on the Sacred Scriptures and the example of this holy woman, we are invited to seek Christ sincerely, follow His light faithfully, and allow our lives to become a reflection of His glory in the world. 🙏🏽
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. 🙏🏽
SOLEMNITY OF THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD: Today, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord. Depending upon the practice of the local diocese or territory, the Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord is widely celebrated on January 6, or on the first Sunday after January 1 in countries where this feast is not a Holy Day of Obligation. Roman Catholic dioceses in many countries celebrates the Feast of the Epiphany on January 6th, some countries including the dioceses of the United States celebrate this feast on Sunday, January 4, 2026.
THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD: The Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord is one of the oldest Christian feasts and one of the most important. The feast of the Epiphany also known as Theophany or the Feast of Manifestation which is traditionally celebrated on the 12th day after Christmas, on January 6th. However, in the Roman Catholic dioceses in many countries including the dioceses of the United States where the solemnity of the Epiphany is not observed as a holy day of obligation, this feast has been moved and assigned to a Sunday, which is then considered a proper day on the calendar, falling on the Sunday between January 2nd and January 8th. This year, others may celebrate the feast of Epiphany on Sunday, January 4, 2026 (from General Norms for the Liturgical Year and the Calendar).
The celebration of the Epiphany is one of the oldest Christian festivals on the Church’s calendar, celebrated since the end of the second century, it predates even the celebration of Christmas. It is commonly known as Twelfth Night, Twelfth Day, or the Feast of Epiphany. The word “epiphany” comes from the Greek word epiphaneia – a verb that means “to shine upon,” “to manifest,” “to reveal” or “to make known.” It means “manifestation” or “showing forth”. It is also called Theophany (“manifestation of God”), especially by Eastern Christians who remember the time when God ‘Theos’ manifested Himself before His people, a term known as ‘Epiphaneia’, that has the meaning of revelation, as He came forth bringing the Light and Hope to the nations, just as He has promised through His prophets and messengers. It refers to the great manifestations of our Lord’s incarnate nature as truly God and truly man, “God in flesh made manifest. Thus, the feast of the Epiphany celebrates the many ways that Christ has made Himself known to the world. Historically, Epiphany celebrated four events that manifested the mission and divinity of Christ: Jesus’ nativity; the visit of the Magi to the Holy Family to adore Him (Matthew 2:1-12); the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River where the Father revealed Him as His beloved Son (Mark 1:9-11); and Jesus’ first miracle at the wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11). Each biblical event is a theophany, or epiphany, a special manifestation of Jesus Christ to mankind. The relationship between these events is beautifully described in this antiphon from the Divine Office: “This day the Church is joined unto the Heavenly Bridegroom, since Christ hath washed away her sins in Jordan; the wise men hasten with gifts to the marriage supper of the King; and they that sit at meat together make merry with water turned into wine. Alleluia.” At one point in Church history all of these events were celebrated on the Epiphany, but now the liturgical calendar assigns particular feasts or proper days for each. The visit of the Magi is emphasized on Epiphany Day, and Christ’s baptism is celebrated the first Sunday that follows. In our day, the great Solemnity of the Epiphany primarily celebrates the visit of the Magi representing our Lord’s manifestation to all the Gentiles (the non-Jewish people of the world) and the corresponding call of the Gentiles to faith in Jesus Christ.
Through this important event of the Epiphany, God manifested Himself to the nations, represented by the Three Magi or the Three Wise Men, who came from very far lands to visit and pay homage to the One Whose coming they had predicted, and following the great Sign in the sky, the Star of Bethlehem, that appeared above the place where the Lord Jesus was born. All the Three Magi set off on a long journey from their lands, at a time when travel was arduous, difficult, lengthy and slow, traversing long distances so that they might come to and see the Holy One of God, the One Whose coming was proclaimed by the great Star. The Star of Bethlehem is a sign of the Messiah, and is also a symbol of faith or ‘Signum Fidei’ because the Three Wise Men went on that very long journey in seeking the One Whom they believed in, as a great Figure and Master, and although they did not yet know Who He truly was, but the Spirit of God present in all the peoples, even then, moved their hearts, and brought them on the journey of faith towards the Lord. The gifts which they brought to the Lord had made people to speculate the places of their origins, with the countries of Sheba and Seba in what is now Ethiopia and Yemen respectively as possible candidates. Those gifts echoed what the prophet Isaiah spoke about in the first reading today, of the caravan of camels from Sheba and Seba coming to the Lord, glorifying Him and praising Him.
The three gifts of the Three Magi are themselves very symbolic and a revelation of Who the Lord Jesus truly was, in the gift of the gold, frankincense and myrrh. Gold represents the kingship and the glory of Christ, while the Frankincense represents both His Divinity and also His role as our Eternal High Priest, and lastly the Myrrh represents the way how the Lord would accomplish His mission, through the suffering and death that He would have to endure during His Passion, for our sake and our salvation. Through all these three gifts therefore, we all come to know the full extent of Who the Lord our God is, and what He has done for us through His Son, Our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. This is the essence of what the Epiphany celebration is all about.
PRAYER: We thank the Lord, for the gift of revealing Himself to all nations, and ask that He continue to be revealed in the works of His children… Amen 🙏🏽
SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:
Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, The Epiphany of the Lord | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading
Today’s Bible Readings: The Epiphany of the Lord | January 4, 2026
Reading 1: Isaiah 60:1–6
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 72:1–2, 7–8, 10–11, 12–13
Reading 2: Ephesians 3:2–3a, 5–6
Gospel: Matthew 2:1–12
Gospel Reading ~ Matthew 2:1–12
“We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.”
When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.” When King Herod heard this, he was greatly troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Assembling all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, He inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it has been written through the prophet: And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; since from you shall come a ruler, who is to shepherd my people Israel.” Then Herod called the magi secretly and ascertained from them the time of the star’s appearance. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search diligently for the child. When you have found him, bring me word, that I too may go and do him homage.” After their audience with the king they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their country by another way.
In today’s Gospel reading, we celebrate the great mystery of the Epiphany, the manifestation of Christ to all nations. The Magi, foreigners and seekers from the East, are guided by a star to the Child Jesus. They represent all who search sincerely for truth and light. While King Herod and the religious leaders possess knowledge of the Scriptures, it is the Magi—outsiders—who recognize the signs and set out on a journey of faith. Their story reveals a powerful truth: God’s light is not reserved for a few but shines for the whole world.
The Magi’s journey was not easy or certain. They followed a star without knowing exactly where it would lead, trusting that God was guiding them step by step. Their perseverance teaches us that faith often requires movement, courage, and openness to God’s surprises. When they finally encounter the Child, they do not speak; instead, they fall down in worship. True encounter with Christ leads not to pride, but to humility and adoration. Their gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—symbolize Christ’s kingship, divinity, and saving sacrifice, reminding us that Jesus came not only to reign, but to redeem.
Reflecting deeper on the Gospel, the contrast between Herod and the Magi becomes striking. Herod is troubled by the birth of Jesus because he fears losing power, while the Magi rejoice because they have found the true King. One seeks to destroy the Light; the others are transformed by it. This contrast challenges us to examine our own hearts. Do we welcome Christ even when His presence demands change, or do we resist Him when He threatens our comfort and control? The Epiphany calls us to choose the path of the Magi, to seek, to adore, and to allow Christ to lead us by a new way.
In the First Reading, the prophet Isaiah proclaims, “Rise up in splendor, Jerusalem! Your light has come.” This prophecy finds its fulfillment in Christ, the true Light of the world. The vision of nations streaming toward the light, bearing gifts of gold and frankincense, directly echoes the Gospel scene of the Magi. Isaiah reminds us that God’s glory is meant to be visible, radiant, and shared. Even when darkness covers the earth, the Lord’s light shines more brightly. For those who trust in Him, despair never has the final word.
The Responsorial Psalm beautifully echoes today’s theme: “Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.” It portrays a king who rules with justice, defends the poor, and brings peace to the ends of the earth. This king is Christ Himself. His reign is not built on power or fear, but on compassion, justice, and mercy for the lowly. The Psalm reminds us that true worship of Christ must be reflected in how we care for the poor, the afflicted, and the forgotten.
The Second Reading deepens this message as Saint Paul reveals the mystery that was once hidden but is now made known: the Gentiles are coheirs, members of the same body, and copartners in the promise in Christ Jesus. The Epiphany is not only about the Magi’s visit; it is about the universal reach of salvation. No one is excluded from God’s plan. In Christ, divisions are broken down, and all are invited into the same family of faith. This truth calls us to reject every form of exclusion, prejudice, or spiritual superiority, and to live as witnesses of God’s inclusive love.
As we reflect on the Sacred Scriptures today, let us ask ourselves: What star is God using to guide me closer to Him? Am I willing to set out in faith, even when the path is unclear? Do I recognize Christ’s presence in unexpected places and people? The Epiphany invites us not only to adore Christ but also to become light for others. Having encountered Him, we are called, like the Magi, to return “by another way,” transformed by grace. May our lives proclaim the praises of the Lord, drawing others to the Light that never fades. May God, in His mercy, grant us the grace to seek Christ sincerely, worship Him humbly, and follow Him faithfully, now and always. 🙏🏽
O God of light and glory, You revealed Your Son to all nations as the Savior of the world. Guide us by the light of faith, that we may always seek Christ with sincere hearts. Teach us to offer You the treasures of our lives, our love, obedience, and trust. Make us reflections of Your light in a world often shadowed by fear and division. May our encounter with Christ transform us, and lead us to walk in Your ways all our days. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
MEMORIAL OF SAINT ELIZABETH ANN SETON, RELIGIOUS – FEAST DAY: JANUARY 4TH: Today, the Church joyfully commemorates the Memorial of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Religious (Patron of Catholic schools, widows, seafarers, and those who have lost children or parents). The first native-born citizen of the United States to be canonized a saint, Elizabeth Ann Seton stands as a radiant witness to faith refined through suffering, motherhood sanctified by sacrifice, and education transformed into a powerful instrument of evangelization. Her life reveals how God can bring profound holiness from loss, uncertainty, and courageous obedience to His will. 🙏🏾
Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections | January 4th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com
(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-january-4th/)
SAINT ELIZABETH ANN SETON, RELIGIOUS: Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton (1774–1821) was born in New York City into a prominent Episcopalian family and was raised in a home marked by prayer, charity, and moral discipline. Widowed at a young age and left with five children, she encountered the Catholic faith during a difficult period of loss and conversion. Drawn especially to the Eucharist and sustained by Sacred Scripture and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, she courageously entered the Catholic Church despite social rejection and financial hardship.
Responding generously to God’s call, Elizabeth devoted her life to the education of the young and the service of the poor. She founded the first Catholic school in the United States and later established the Sisters of Charity of Saint Joseph’s, the first religious congregation founded on American soil. As “Mother Seton,” she guided her community with wisdom, humility, and deep trust in God. Though she endured continued suffering and ill health, her legacy shaped Catholic education in America and continues to inspire families, educators, and all who seek to serve God faithfully.
PRAYER: Lord God, You blessed Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton with steadfast faith, maternal love, and a heart devoted to the education and care of Your people. Through her intercession, strengthen families, guide educators, and comfort all who suffer loss. Help us, like her, to trust You in every season of life and to serve with generous and faithful hearts. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏾
Our Blessed Mother Mary, and Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton ~ 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/
KIND REMINDER: JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE 2025 HOLY DOOR SCHEDULE TIMELINES | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/jubilee-of-hope-2025/
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: On this Feast of the Epiphany and the Memorial of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, we lift our hearts to God in gratitude and trust. We pray that the light of Christ, revealed to all nations, may guide the Church in proclaiming the Gospel with courage and unity. May families, especially widows, parents, and those who have lost loved ones, find comfort and strength in God’s faithful love. Through the intercession of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, we pray for educators, students, and all who serve in Catholic schools, that they may be instruments of truth, charity, and wisdom. We also remember the poor, the marginalized, and those searching for meaning and hope, that they may encounter Christ, the true Light, and be welcomed into His saving embrace.
LET US PRAY:
Lord God of light and mercy, You revealed Your Son to the nations as the Savior of the world and called Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton to reflect light through faith, sacrifice, and service. As we journey through life, lead us by the light of Christ, strengthen us in times of trial, and help us to offer our lives generously in love for others. May we, like the Magi, seek You with sincere hearts, and like Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, trust You completely in every season. We make this prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, and Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Religious ~ 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/