THURSDAY OF THE SEVENTEENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: JULY 31, 2025
MEMORIAL OF SAINT IGNATIUS OF LOYOLA, PRIEST AND SAINT GERMANUS, BISHOP OF AUXERRE | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day
(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, and Saint Germanus of Auxerre| https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-july-31st/ )
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | July 31, 2025 | “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-145/
Watch “Jubilee of Youth | Welcome Holy Mass Presided by PopeLeo XIV | LIVE from the Vatican | July 29, 2025” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/live-from-the-vatican-welcome-mass-jubilee-of-youth-july-29-2025/
JUBILEE OF HOPE 2025: JUBILEE PRAYER
Link to the prayer of the Jubilee of Hope 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/08/the-jubilee-prayer/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family!
Today is Thursday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time! We give thanks to God for the gift of life and for bringing us safely and successfully to the end of the month of July. We pray for those who started the month with us, but unfortunatlely couldn’t make it to the end. May God rest their gentle souls. Amen 🙏🏽
As we come to the end of the month of July, may the Precious Blood of Jesus cover and protect us, heal our wounds, and strengthen our faith. We pray for all those celebrating their birthdays, anniversaries, new beginnings, and special moments in this month of July. May God’s blessings overflow in their lives. May this month bring peace to troubled hearts, direction to the lost, comfort to the grieving, and strength to the weary. We pray for God’s grace and mercy as we prepare to shower in a new month. In all things, may His will be done and His name be glorified. Amen🙏🏽
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” ~ Matthew 5:4
We pray for the sick and dying. We especially pray for our loved ones who have recently died and we continue to pray for the repose of their gentle souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, may the Lord receive them into the light of Eternal Kingdom. 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 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His Saints” ~ Psalm 116:15
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 & the Holy Spirit forever & ever. Amen 🙏🏽
On this special feast day, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, we continue to humbly pray for the well-being and safety of all parents, grandparents and the elderly. We pray for justice, peace, love and unity in our families and our divided and conflicted world today. We continue to pray for all families and for the safety and well-being of our children and children all over the world. We pray for all those who are marginalized in our society, the poor and the needy. We 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. May God protect us all and keep united in peace, love and faith. Amen 🙏🏽
Through the intercession of St. Joseph, we pray for all fathers, workers and all those who labour 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 the Ordinary Time. Wishing us all and our loved ones a joyful, peaceful, and grace-filled month of July.🙏🏽
LIST OF ALL NOVENAS | Month of July | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/list-of-all-novenas-july/
COMMON CATHOLIC PRAYERS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/common-catholic-prayers/
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:
Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Thursday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading
Today’s Bible Readings: Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, Priest | Thursday, July 31, 2025
Reading 1: Exodus 40:16–21, 34–38
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 84:3, 4, 5-6a and 8a, 11
Gospel: Matthew 13:47–53
Gospel Reading: Matthew 13:47–53
“They put what is good into buckets, what is bad they throw away”
“Jesus said to the disciples: “The Kingdom of heaven is like a net thrown into the sea, which collects fish of every kind. When it is full they haul it ashore and sit down to put what is good into buckets. What is bad they throw away. Thus it will be at the end of the age. The angels will go out and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.” “Do you understand all these things?” They answered, “Yes.” And he replied, “Then every scribe who has been instructed in the Kingdom of heaven is like the head of a household who brings from his storeroom both the new and the old.” When Jesus finished these parables, he went away from there.”
In today’s Gospel reading, the parable is based on one of the standard ways of fishing in the Sea of Galilee at the time of Jesus. Two boats pull a very large dragnet between them. As a result, all sorts of fish are caught. Some of the fish would not be suitable for selling at the local fish market, and, so, when the catch is brought to land, these fish would have to be separated out from the fish that could be sold. In what way is the kingdom of heaven like that everyday reality by the Sea of Galilee? Perhaps Jesus is suggesting that as He goes about His ministry, He casts the net of God’s loving presence very broadly. The Gospel is preached to all and sundry; Jesus does not discriminate. Everyone needs to hear the Gospel of God’s unconditional love for all. No one is considered unworthy of the Gospel. As Jesus says elsewhere in Matthew’s Gospel, using a different image, God makes His sun to shine and His rain to fall on good and bad alike. However, Jesus is aware that not everyone will respond to His proclamation of the reign of God’s merciful and faithful love. Just as the fishermen have to separate out fish which can be sold from fish that can’t, so there will come a moment, at the end of time, when God will separate out those who tried to respond to Jesus’ proclamation of God’s loving presence and those who refused to do so. In the meantime, the Lord continues to throw the net of God’s love over our lives and His grace at work within us continues to move us to respond. The Lord does not give up on us, even if our initial response leaves a lot to be desired. He is like the potter in the first reading who keeps shaping our lives, taking even what is wrong in our lives and making something new and good from it. We, of course, are not passive clay in the Lord’s hands. We can help the efforts of the potter by continuing to open ourselves to His loving work in our lives, or we can hinder His work.
Jesus continues to unveil the mystery of the Kingdom of heaven through vivid parables. Today, He likens it to a net cast into the sea, gathering all kinds of fish. This powerful image shows the inclusive nature of God’s call inviting all, regardless of background. Yet, it also speaks of judgment: at the end of time, a sorting will take place, separating the righteous from the wicked. It’s a sobering reminder that discipleship is not only about being caught by the net of grace but also about being transformed into someone who belongs to the Kingdom. Jesus ends this teaching by emphasizing the value of both old and new treasures in the storeroom of a wise scribe a lesson in embracing both tradition and the newness of Christ’s message. True disciples are those who can draw from both the wisdom of the past and the promptings of the Holy Spirit in the present.
Reflecting on the first reading, in Exodus, we witness the completion of the Tabernacle the Dwelling place of God among His people. Moses, obeying the Lord’s commands with precision, sets up the sacred space where the Ark of the Covenant would be housed. The cloud covering the tent and the fire by night symbolize God’s presence and guidance. Israel’s journey was governed not by human plans but by the movements of God’s glory. This scene powerfully mirrors the spiritual life: when God is at the center, our journey becomes one of purpose and direction. The Dwelling is not only a physical structure but a representation of our hearts places that must be prepared, ordered, and opened for God to reside and lead.
Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, the psalmist echoes a deep yearning for God’s presence: “How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord, mighty God!” This longing is not abstract it’s emotional and physical, a desire that consumes the soul and flesh alike. Even birds find a home near God’s altar, suggesting that every creature, no matter how small, has a place in God’s house. The psalm reminds us that one day in God’s courts is better than a thousand elsewhere an invitation to prioritize His presence above all else.
As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we are challenged to ask: Am I living in such a way that reflects belonging to the Kingdom of heaven? Do I allow God’s Word both old truths and new inspirations to shape my decisions? Like Moses, do I follow God’s instructions carefully and trust in His timing? Is my heart a Dwelling prepared for God’s glory, or have I cluttered it with distractions? Let our hearts be like the Tabernacle ordered, obedient, and open to God’s indwelling glory. Today, listen for God’s prompting and follow where He leads, for the true journey of life begins and ends with His presence. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace as we continue to strive to serve Him in spirit and in truth. 🙏🏽
Lord God, You call all people into Your Kingdom and gather us in Your mercy. Purify our hearts and transform our lives so that, at the end of the age, we may be counted among the righteous. Fill our lives with Your presence as You filled the Dwelling in the wilderness. Let our souls yearn for You always, and may we find our joy in Your courts. Teach us to cherish both the old wisdom of faith and the new movements of Your Spirit. Amen.🙏🏾
MEMORIAL OF SAINT IGNATIUS OF LOYOLA, PRIEST AND SAINT GERMANUS, BISHOP OF AUXERRE ~ FEAST DAY – JULY 31ST: Today, the Church joyfully honors Saint Ignatius of Loyola (Patron of spiritual retreats, soldiers, and educators), founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and master of Ignatian spirituality, whose conversion and deep love for Christ transformed the Church and the world; and Saint Germanus of Auxerre (Patron of Auxerre, France), a noble Roman official turned holy bishop, missionary, and defender of the faith in both Gaul and Britain. Through the intercession of these great saints and of Our Blessed Mother Mary, we lift our prayers today for those in military service, for peace and unity in our homes and nations, for the poor and suffering especially those enduring terminal illnesses and for all who feel lost or burdened in these trying times. May persecuted Christians be strengthened, the sick consoled, and the Church renewed in holiness and mission. 🙏🏾
Saint (s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | July 31st | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, and Saint Germanus of Auxerre| https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-july-31st/)
SAINT IGNATIUS OF LOYOLA, PRIEST (1491–1556): Saint Ignatius of Loyola was born into Spanish nobility in the Basque region. Initially a soldier and courtier seeking glory, he was wounded in battle and underwent a life-changing conversion during his long recovery. Reading the Lives of the Saints and the Life of Christ, he surrendered his ambition for worldly fame and offered himself entirely to God. Renouncing his former life, he dedicated himself to asceticism, prayer, and penance. During a spiritual retreat in Manresa, he composed the Spiritual Exercises, a powerful guide for discernment and deep communion with God. Ignatius later studied theology and, with a group of companions including St. Francis Xavier and St. Peter Faber, founded the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) a religious order grounded in obedience, education, and evangelization.
Ignatius was ordained and appointed the first Superior General of the Jesuits in 1541. Under his leadership, the Society flourished, sending missionaries across the globe and establishing schools, colleges, and seminaries that continue to shape minds and hearts today. His Spiritual Exercises remain a foundational tool for retreats and personal spiritual growth. Saint Ignatius died in Rome on July 31, 1556. He was canonized in 1622 and declared the Patron of all Spiritual Retreats by Pope Pius XI. His legacy endures in the Jesuit order’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence, justice, and discernment in service of Christ.
PRAYER: O God, who raised up Saint Ignatius of Loyola in Your Church for the greater glory of Your Name, grant that we may labor as he did with a heart wholly given to You. May we discern Your will in all things, trust Your guidance, and serve with generous love. Amen. 🙏🏾
SAINT GERMANUS, BISHOP OF AUXERRE (C. 378–448): Saint Germanus was born to a wealthy and noble Gallo-Roman family in present-day France. Trained in law, he became a prominent lawyer and imperial governor in Gaul. Though initially worldly in ambition, God had a greater plan: the local bishop tonsured him against his will, and Germanus accepted this call with humility and faith. He was unanimously elected Bishop of Auxerre in 418. Known for his ascetic life, personal charity, and deep spirituality, he founded a monastery and served the poor with compassion. Germanus was not only a reformer in his own diocese but also a missionary traveling to Britain to combat the heresy of Pelagianism and defend orthodox doctrine.
He boldly faced political powers, ministered to the people during turbulent times, and promoted devotion to the saints, especially Saint Alban, whose martyrdom he helped preserve in writing. His sanctity, courage, and miracles made him revered across both Roman and Celtic lands. Germanus died peacefully in Ravenna, Italy, on July 31, 448.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, you called Saint Germanus from worldly prestige to shepherd Your Church in holiness. Help us to detach from earthly pride and cling to the eternal truth of Christ. Through his intercession, renew our faith and make us bold defenders of the Gospel. Amen. 🙏🏾
Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Ignatius of Loyola, and Saint Germanus of Auxerre ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏾
GENERAL PRAYERS AND INTENTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/general-prayers-and-intentions/
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 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF JULY: For formation in discernment. Let us pray that we might again learn how to discern, to know how to choose paths of life and reject everything that leads us away from Christ and the Gospel.
(https://popesprayerusa.net/popes-intentions/)
DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF JULY | MONTH OF THE MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD OF JESUS: July is dedicated to the Most Precious Blood of Ours Lord Jesus Christ a profound devotion that honors the redeeming power of Christ’s Blood shed for our salvation. Flowing from His Sacred Heart, this Blood is the price of our redemption, the source of grace in the sacraments, and the seal of the New Covenant. It reminds us that salvation was not won lightly, but through the ultimate sacrifice of love. This month, the Church invites us to meditate on the infinite value of Christ’s Blood poured out during His Passion from Gethsemane to Calvary and in every celebration of the Holy Eucharist. We are called to offer acts of reparation for the sins of the world and to intercede for the conversion of souls. Devotions such as the Litany of the Precious Blood, the Chaplet of the Precious Blood, and daily consecration to the Precious Blood help deepen our union with Christ crucified.
As Saint John Chrysostom once said, “The Precious Blood is the salvation of souls; it purifies, sanctifies, and strengthens.” In our trials, let us take refuge beneath the cross, trusting in the Blood that speaks of mercy, victory, and eternal life.
“Precious Blood of Jesus, save us and the whole world.”
O Most Precious Blood of Jesus, fountain of salvation, we adore You. Wash us clean of sin, protect us from evil, and draw us into deeper love and union with You. Amen. 🙏🏽
https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12540
PRAYER INTENTIONS: On this memorial of Saint Ignatius of Loyola and Saint Germanus of Auxerre, we bring our hearts before God in trust and surrender. We pray for the grace to discern God’s will with clarity and to follow it with courage, as Ignatius did. May all who seek direction in their lives find guidance in Christ. We lift up all those serving in the military and those in leadership, that they may act with justice, integrity, and peace. We remember those suffering from terminal illnesses, especially cancer, and ask for God’s healing mercy and strength for them and their caregivers. We pray for unity and reconciliation within families and communities, for peace in conflict zones, and for the poor, the displaced, and all who suffer silently. May persecuted Christians around the world be strengthened in faith. We entrust to God the Church and her shepherds, especially those discerning vocations, that the fire of missionary zeal and humble service may be rekindled through the intercession of Saint Ignatius and Saint Germanus.
LET US PRAY
My revealing Lord, You speak to me day and night, continuously revealing Your love and mercy to me. May I learn to become more attentive to Your voice speaking within the depths of my soul. As I hear You speak, please give me the gift of understanding to know Your will and to embrace it with all my heart. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽
Lord God, You are our dwelling place in every generation. As You guided the Israelites by cloud and fire, guide us today through the uncertainties of life. May we always remain under Your presence and walk only when You lead. Teach us, like Saint Ignatius, to seek Your greater glory in all things and to embrace both suffering and joy as paths to holiness. Grant us the boldness of Saint Germanus to defend the truth, serve the poor, and live the Gospel without fear. Fill us with the wisdom of Your Word, that we may discern rightly and love deeply. May our hearts become a sanctuary where Your glory dwells, and may our lives bring others into Your Kingdom. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏾
Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Ignatius of Loyola, and Saint Germanus of Auxerre ~ 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 as we now enter the gentle rhythm of Ordinary Time, may our hearts remain open to the quiet working of the Holy Spirit who continues to guide, renew, and strengthen us each day. May this new month be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ walks with us always. Alleluia! Have a blessed, safe, grace-filled Thursday and fruitful week🙏🏽
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 |
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