MEMORIAL OF SAINT HILARY OF POITIERS, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH; SAINT VERONICA OF MILAN, VIRGIN AND SAINT KENTIGERN, BISHOP | JANUARY 13TH 2026

TUESDAY OF THE FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: JANUARY 13, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

MEMORIAL OF SAINT HILARY OF POITIERS, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH; SAINT VERONICA OF MILAN, VIRGIN AND SAINT KENTIGERN, BISHOP | JANUARY 13TH | Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Hilary, Saint Veronica, and Saint Kentigern | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-january-13th/

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | January 13, 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-13-2026/

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

Greetings and blessings, beloved family!

Today, as we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Hilary of Poitiers, Bishop and Doctor of the Church; Saint Veronica of Milan, Virgin; and Saint Kentigern, Bishop, we are invited to reflect on the ways faith, humility, and service shape our lives. Each of these saints exemplified dedication to God—through defending truth, educating the needy, and spreading the Gospel with compassion and zeal. Their lives remind us that holiness is lived in both courage and gentleness, in teaching and in caring for others, and in steadfast trust in God’s providence. As we begin today’s reflection, let us open our hearts to the lessons of Scripture and the inspiration of these holy men and women, seeking to grow in faith, love, and devotion.

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: Tuesday of the First Week in Ordinary Time | January 13, 2026
Reading 1: 1 Samuel 1:9–20
Responsorial Psalm: 1 Samuel 2:1, 4–5, 6–7, 8abcd
Gospel: Mark 1:21–28

Gospel Reading ~ Mark 1:21–28

“Come out of him, unclean spirit, and be silent!”

In today’s Gospel, we witness Jesus teaching in the synagogue at Capernaum and confronting a man possessed by an unclean spirit. The people were astonished because Jesus spoke with authority, not as the scribes did. When the unclean spirit recognized Jesus as “the Holy One of God,” He rebuked it, and it immediately obeyed. This encounter reveals the profound authority of Christ—not only in His teaching but also over all spiritual powers. His words and actions demonstrate that the Kingdom of God is active and present, and that true freedom and wholeness come only through Him.

The unclean spirit’s recognition of Jesus reminds us that even forces opposed to God must acknowledge His sovereignty. For us, this serves as a call to recognize Christ’s authority in our own lives, surrendering areas of fear, doubt, or sin to His power. Like those in the synagogue, we are invited to marvel at His wisdom and allow His teaching to transform our hearts, rather than merely admire it from a distance.

In the First Reading, we continue Hannah’s story of deep faith and persistent prayer. In her sorrow, she turns to God with complete honesty, making a heartfelt vow and pouring out her desire for a child before the Lord. Even when misunderstood by Eli the priest, Hannah remains steadfast, trusting that God hears and answers prayers in His own time. Her faith is rewarded, as she conceives Samuel, fulfilling her promise to dedicate him to God. Hannah’s example teaches us patience, trust, and the power of sincere prayer. God invites us to bring our deepest needs and longings before Him without fear of judgment, trusting that He works through our lives in ways beyond our understanding.

The psalm echoes Hannah’s gratitude and joy, exalting the Lord who raises the lowly and humbles the proud. It reminds us that God alone is the source of life, strength, and justice. Like Hannah, we are called to respond with praise, offering ourselves wholly to God and acknowledging His care in every circumstance.

As we reflect on today’s Sacred Scriptures, we are invited to examine ouselves. Do we, like Hannah, approach God with honesty about our struggles, trusting His timing and providence? Are we willing to surrender our lives, plans, and desires to His authority, as the unclean spirit recognized Christ’s power? How does Christ’s teaching challenge the way we live each day, and how can we let His words shape our thoughts, actions, and relationships?

Lord Jesus, You are the Holy One of God, whose authority restores and liberates. Teach us to surrender our fears, doubts, and burdens to You. May our prayers be honest and persistent, like Hannah’s, trusting that You hear and answer according to Your perfect will. Help us to marvel at Your wisdom, follow Your teaching with faith, and allow Your power to bring healing and transformation to our lives. Strengthen us to live in Your presence each day, glorifying Your name in all that we do. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

MEMORIAL OF SAINT HILARY OF POITIERS, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH; SAINT VERONICA OF MILAN, VIRGIN; SAINT KENTIGERN, BISHOP – FEAST DAY: JANUARY 13TH: Today, the Church commemorates the Memorial of Saint Hilary of Poitiers, Bishop and Doctor of the Church (Patron of Lawyers, Sick People, and Defense of Orthodoxy); Saint Veronica of Milan, Virgin (Patron of Humble Service and Devotion); and Saint Kentigern, Bishop (Patron of Glasgow and Missionary Zeal). Though their vocations and historical contexts differed, each of these saints bore witness to Christ through steadfast faith, teaching, and service to others. Their lives remind us that holiness is expressed through courage, humility, and devotion in every circumstance. As we honor their memory today, we are invited to imitate their zeal for truth, dedication to God, and compassion for humanity.

Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections | January 13th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com

(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Hilary, Saint Veronica, and Saint Kentigern | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-january-13th/)

SAINT HILARY OF POITIERS, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH: Saint Hilary (c. 310–367) was a Gallo-Roman bishop and Doctor of the Church, renowned for defending the Divinity of Christ against Arianism. Born into a noble pagan family in Poitiers, France, he converted to Christianity through study and prayer, bringing his life into full alignment with the Gospel. As Bishop of Poitiers, he courageously defended orthodoxy, attending councils such as Seleucia in 360, and was known as the “Hammer of the Arians.” Despite political pressure and personal challenges, he remained gentle, wise, and steadfast in faith. His writings and leadership helped shape Western Christianity.

PRAYER: Almighty God, grant that, like Saint Hilary, we may defend the truth of Your Word, remain steadfast in faith, and share Your wisdom with gentleness and courage. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT VERONICA OF MILAN, VIRGIN: Saint Veronica of Milan (1445–1497) was an Italian nun in the Augustinian Order who, despite being unable to read or write, pursued holiness through prayer, humility, and obedience. Guided by visions of the Virgin Mary, she lived her life devoted to service, helping her community and following God’s will faithfully. Her example teaches that holiness comes not from status or learning but from a humble heart that seeks God in every action.

PRAYER: O Saint Veronica, help us to serve God with humility, devotion, and love, trusting that sincere faith and daily acts of kindness bring glory to His name. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT KENTIGERN, BISHOP: Saint Kentigern, also known as Saint Mungo (c. 518–603), was the founder and first bishop of Glasgow. Born under challenging circumstances, he was raised in faith and became a hermit, missionary, and miracle-worker. He established monasteries, spread the Gospel in Strathclyde and Wales, and guided his people with pastoral care, wisdom, and compassion. Saint Kentigern’s life exemplifies missionary zeal and pastoral dedication.

PRAYER: Lord, through the intercession of Saint Kentigern, may we serve others with compassion, proclaim Your truth with courage, and lead lives rooted in faith and charity. Amen. 🙏🏾

Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Hilary, Saint Veronica, and Saint Kentigern — 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 heartfelt prayers for faith, courage, and humility. Inspired by Saint Hilary, we pray for steadfastness in defending truth and holiness in our daily lives. Following the example of Saint Veronica, we ask for the grace to serve others with humility, devotion, and unwavering trust in God’s providence. Through the life of Saint Kentigern, we pray for zeal in spreading the Gospel, compassion for the needy, and wisdom in guiding those entrusted to our care. We also present our personal intentions, especially for those struggling with doubt, fear, or affliction, asking that God’s mercy and healing touch bring them comfort, strength, and peace. May we, like Hannah in the first reading, approach God with persistent prayer, trusting in His loving care and divine plan.

LET US PRAY:

Lord, You are the source of all wisdom, faith, and love. Grant us the courage to stand firm in Your truth, the humility to serve others selflessly, and the zeal to follow Your call faithfully. May the examples of Saint Hilary, Saint Veronica, and Saint Kentigern guide our hearts, and may we, in our own lives, bear witness to Your mercy, compassion, and grace. Hear our prayers, strengthen our faith, and draw us ever closer to You, through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏾

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Hilary, Saint Veronica, and Saint Kentigern ~ 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/