MEMORIAL OF SAINT MARGARET OF SCOTLAND, AND SAINT GERTRUDE THE GREAT, VIRGIN | NOVEMBER 16TH

SUNDAY OF THE THIRTY-THIRD WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME (YEAR C)

NINTH WORLD DAY OF THE POOR | NOVEMBER 16, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/ninth-world-day-of-the-poor/

Theme: “You, Lord, are my hope” ~ Psalm 71:5

SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: NOVEMBER 16, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

MEMORIAL OF SAINT MARGARET OF SCOTLAND, AND SAINT GERTRUDE THE GREAT, VIRGIN | NOVEMBER 16TH | Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Margaret of Scotland, and Saint Gertrude the Great | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-november-16th/

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | November 16, 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-november-16-2025/

DAY 3: NOVENA TO CHRIST THE KING | NOVEMBER 14-22, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/novena-to-christ-the-king/

Novena to Christ the King starts November 14, 2025! The Novena is prayed any time of year, but traditionally prayed Nine Days Prior to the Solemnity of Christ the King on November 23, 2025

MOTHER OF THE FAITHFUL PEOPLE OF GOD (MATER POPULI FIDELIS) | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/mother-of-the-faithful-people-of-god-mater-populi-fidelis/

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/

PURGATORY: WHAT IS PURGATORY? | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/11/15/purgatory-and-limbo/

LITANY OF THE SAINTS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/litany-of-the-saints/

THE SAINTS: WHO ARE THEY AND HOW ARE THEY CANONISED? | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/the-saints-who-are-they-and-how-are-they-canonised/

KIND REMINDER: JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE 2025 HOLY DOOR SCHEDULE TIMELINES | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/jubilee-of-hope-2025/

DR. PHILOMENA IKOWE AND HER JOYFUL CATHOLIC WITNESS | LIGHTS, CATHOLIC, ACTION! | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/dr-philomena-ikowe-and-her-joyful-catholic-witness/

Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

Greetings and blessings, beloved family!

Today, the Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time is observed as the ninth World Day of the Poor. Pope Leo XIV’s message for today centers on hope. Addressed primarily to the world’s poor, it is a reminder to all of us. The poor cannot place their hope in power or possessions, for they have neither. Their hope—and ours—must be in God, “our first and only hope.” Sharing this hope with the poor demonstrates love of God and neighbor.

According to Pope Leo’s message for this year’s World Day of tge Poor, “The gravest form of poverty is not to know God.” In our prayers and service to those in material need, the vulnerable and those marginalized in our communities, may we not forget that the deepest poverty is spiritual – where there is loss of the true meaning of hope and faith. May we continue to strive and be bearers of God’s love to the world yearning for truth.

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven ~ Matthew 5:3

The Church invites us once again to pause, reflect, and remain attentive to the signs of God’s presence in our daily lives. We commemorate the Memorial of Saint Margaret of Scotland and Saint Gertrude the Great, Virgin, holy women whose lives radiated charity, humility, and profound love for God. As we enter into today’s Scripture readings, we are reminded of God’s coming justice, the call to perseverance in the midst of trials, and the dignity of faithful labor that reflects our Christian identity. May this reflection open our minds to God’s wisdom and strengthen our desire to follow Him with steadfast hearts.

We joyfully thank God for the gift of life and for leading us safely in this month of November. As we continue this sacred 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 who have gone before us inspire us to live each day in holiness, humility, and love. This month of November, dedicated to the Holy Souls in Purgatory, invites us to pray fervently for our departed loved ones and for all who await the fullness of heavenly joy. We especially remember those who mourn, that they may find comfort and peace in the promise of resurrection. Through the prayers of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of All Saints, may God grant eternal rest to the faithful departed, healing to the brokenhearted, and grace to all who seek His mercy. May this new 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 month. We entrust the days of November 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 Ordinary Time. Wishing us all and our loved ones a joyful, peaceful, and grace-filled month of October. 🙏🏽

NINTH WORLD DAY OF THE POOR | NOVEMBER 16, 2025] | Link for details – https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/ninth-world-day-of-the-poor/

Theme: “You, Lord, are my hope” ~ Psalm 71:5

Today, the Church celebrates the Ninth World Day of the Poor, established by Pope Francis in 2017 and continued under Pope Leo XIV. This day invites us to walk with the poor—not only through charity but by recognizing them as witnesses of faith who reveal God’s presence in hardship.

The Holy Father emphasizes that true hope is found in God alone. The poor, who often have nothing else to rely on, show the world what authentic hope looks like. This day calls all Christians to solidarity, justice, and genuine friendship with those who suffer, addressing both material and spiritual needs.

Communities worldwide observe this day through outreach, prayer, and acts of service, reflecting Christ’s call to walk with the marginalized. We are reminded that the Gospel is most fully lived when we stand beside the poor, choosing compassion, solidarity, justice, and generosity in our daily lives.

Prayer: May God inspire us to be true friends of the poor, offering hope, love, and justice, recognizing Christ in their lives. Amen 🙏🏽

DAY 3: NOVENA TO CHRIST THE KING | NOVEMBER 14-22, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/novena-to-christ-the-king/

Novena to Christ the King starts 14th November, 2025! The Novena is prayed any time of year, but traditionally prayed Nine Days Prior to the Solemnity of Christ the King on November 23, 2025

From November 14–22, 2025, we join the universal Church in praying this novena with devotion and trust, asking Christ the King to reign in our hearts and strengthen us in faith.

PRAYER: Almighty and merciful God, you break the power of evil and make all things new in your Son Jesus Christ, the King of the universe. May all in heaven and earth acclaim your glory and never cease to praise you. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.🙏🏾

Recite One Our Father, One Hail Mary and One Glory Be per day followed by the Novena Prayer:

O Lord our God, You alone are the Most Holy King and Ruler of all nations. We pray to You, Lord, in the great expectation of receiving from You, O Divine King, mercy, peace, justice and all good things. Protect, O Lord our King, our families and the land of our birth. Guard us we pray, Most Faithful One. Protect us from our enemies and from Your Just Judgment. Forgive us, O Sovereign King, our sins against You. Jesus, You are a King of Mercy. We have deserved Your Just Judgment. Have mercy on us, Lord, and forgive us. We trust in Your Great Mercy. O most awe-inspiring King, we bow before You and pray; May Your Reign, Your Kingdom, be recognized on earth. Amen. 🙏🏾

NOVENA TO CHRIST THE KING | NOVEMBER 14-22, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/novena-to-christ-the-king/

Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

KIND REMINDER: JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE 2025 HOLY DOOR SCHEDULE TIMELINES | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/jubilee-of-hope-2025/

The Jubilee began with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024, and will conclude with the closing of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica on January 6, 2026. The Holy Doors at the other major basilicas (St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls) will be closed on Sunday, December 28, 2025

Individuals who cannot travel to Rome can participate in the Jubilee by making a pilgrimage to a local designated site. For a complete list of local pilgrimage sites, check with your local diocese.

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/

PURGATORY: WHAT IS PURGATORY? | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/11/15/purgatory-and-limbo/

PURGATORY: The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines purgatory as a “purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven,” which is experienced by those “who die in God’s grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified” (CCC 1030). It notes that “this final purification of the elect . . . is entirely different from the punishment of the damned” (CCC 1031). The purification is necessary because, as Scripture teaches, nothing unclean will enter the presence of God in heaven (Rev. 21:27) and, while we may die with our mortal sins forgiven, there can still be many impurities in us, specifically venial sins and the temporal punishment due to sins already forgiven.

What Happens in Purgatory?: When we die, we undergo what is called the particular, or individual, judgment. Scripture says that “it is appointed for men to die once, and after that comes judgment” (Heb. 9:27). We are judged instantly and receive our reward, for good or ill. We know at once what our final destiny will be. At the end of time, when Jesus returns, there will come the general judgment to which the Bible refers, for example, in Matthew 25:31-32: “When the Son of man comes in His glory, and all the angels with him, then He will sit on His glorious throne. Before Him will be gathered all the nations, and He will separate them one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. In this general judgment all our sins will be publicly revealed (Luke 12:2–5).

November is a month when we remember our dead in a special way. It is a month when we are prone to reflecting on death, not in a morbid way but in the hopeful way that is rooted in our faith. On this special Feast day, as we continue to remember the faithful departed, please let us remember to pray for the Poor Souls in Purgatory this month of November and always. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and all the Saints, we humbly pray for the souls of our faithful departed loved ones, for the souls in Purgatory and the repose of the souls of all the faithful departed.🙏🏽

Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:

Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Sunday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading

Today’s Bible Readings: Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time | November 16, 2025
Reading 1: Malachi 3:19–20a
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 98:5–6, 7–8, 9
Reading 2: 2 Thessalonians 3:7–12
Gospel: Luke 21:5–19

Gospel Reading ~ Luke 21:5–19

“By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

“While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, “All that you see here– the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.” Then they asked him, “Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?” He answered, “See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and ‘The time has come.’ Do not follow them! When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end.” Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky. “Before all this happens, however, they will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name. It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

As the liturgical year draws closer to its end, the Church gives us readings that turn our hearts toward the ultimate destiny of the world and the final victory of God. Today’s Gospel is one of Jesus’ most sobering teachings, inviting us to face the realities of suffering, confusion, upheaval, and persecution, but with unshakeable trust. Jesus shifts the focus from earthly grandeur to eternal truth. While the people admired the beauty and magnificence of the Temple, Jesus reminded them that even the most glorious structures of this world will eventually fall. His words are not meant to frighten but to refocus. He teaches us that our foundation should never rest on what is temporary, no matter how beautiful or secure it appears. The Temple, once the pride of Israel, would not last forever. This sobering revelation invites us to examine where we place our security. Are our hearts attached to what is passing, or rooted in what endures?

Jesus warns His disciples not to be deceived by false saviors or frightened by the turbulence of the world. Wars, disasters, and trials will occur, but these events do not signal God’s absence. Rather, they reveal that His plans stretch far beyond human understanding. Jesus warns against deception, fear, and panic, three spiritual dangers that can weaken faith. Many false voices will claim authority. Many alarming events will unfold. But Jesus says clearly: “Do not be terrified.” Fear is not the language of God; trust is. He then speaks of persecution, not as a tragedy, but as an opportunity: “It will lead to your giving testimony.” Difficult moments, trials, and misunderstandings become places where the light of Christ can shine through us. And in all this, Jesus makes a stunning promise: “I Myself shall give you wisdom.” We are never alone. Grace will be supplied exactly at the moment it is needed. Finally, Jesus gives us the heart of today’s message: “By your perseverance you will secure your lives.” In a world shaken by instability, faithfulness, not brilliance, strength, or influence, is what keeps us anchored. Perseverance is the mark of a true disciple: steady trust, unwavering commitment, and fidelity in both the calm and the storm.

In the First Reading, the prophet Malachi speaks of “the day that is coming,” a day of divine justice in which the proud and wicked will be humbled. Yet for those who fear the Lord, a different promise is given: “the sun of justice with its healing rays.” This is not a day to dread, but a day to hope for a dawn of renewal, vindication, and restoration. The imagery of fire and healing light reminds us that God’s justice is both purifying and life-giving. For the faithful, God is not a consuming fire that destroys, but a radiant sun whose light brings healing, strength, and freedom. This reading challenges us to remain faithful even when evil seems to prevail, trusting that God’s justice always prevails, even if delayed in human eyes.

“The Lord comes to rule the earth with justice.” The Psalm bursts with joy as all creation, rivers, seas, mountains, joins in praise. This cosmic symphony reminds us that God’s reign is one of righteousness, mercy, and fairness. While the Gospel warns of turmoil, the Psalm assures us of the final outcome: God will judge the world with equity. This mixture of hope and anticipation invites us to live with confidence. God is not distant; He is coming. And His coming brings peace, order, and justice to all things.

In the Second Reading Saint Paul urges believers to lead disciplined, responsible, and meaningful lives. His words address a community tempted by idleness and distraction, reminding them that discipleship is not passive. Work, diligence, and integrity are not merely social expectations, they are spiritual virtues. Paul reminds us that the Christian life is lived in imitation of Christ and His apostles: steadfast, humble, committed, and mindful of others. His instruction to “work quietly and eat your own food” encourages us to avoid idleness, gossip, and disorder. A faithful life is one built on responsibility, contribution, and quiet perseverance, virtues that sustain the wider community and glorify God.

As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we are invited to ask ourselves, Do I place my trust in things that are passing, possessions, achievements, recognition, or in the unshakable truth of God? How do I respond when life becomes turbulent or frightening? With fear, anger, or faith-filled perseverance? Am I attentive to false voices and distractions that pull my heart away from Christ? Do I see moments of suffering or misunderstanding as opportunities to witness to God’s love? Does my daily life, my work, my relationships, my discipline reflect the faith I profess?

As we enter the last weeks of Ordinary Time, the readings remind us that everything earthly fades, but God’s word and His promises endure forever. In a world marked by conflict and uncertainty, we are called not to fear but to stand firm, anchored in Christ, guided by His wisdom, strengthened by His grace.
May we persevere with unwavering faith, becoming living witnesses of hope, justice, and love. And may every trial we face lead us closer to the eternal life Christ promises to all who remain steadfast in Him. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace as we continue to

Lord Jesus, You are our refuge in every storm and our strength in every trial. Grant us the grace to persevere with courage, trusting that You are always by our side. Cleanse our hearts of fear, distraction, and attachment to what does not last. Fill us with wisdom from Your Spirit, that we may witness with clarity and charity even in moments of difficulty. May Your healing light rise within us like the sun of justice, restoring our hope, renewing our strength, and guiding our steps in truth. Help us to live responsibly, joyfully, and faithfully, as members of Your Church and bearers of Your light in the world.
Amen. 🙏🏽

MEMORIAL OF SAINT MARGARET OF SCOTLAND; AND SAINT GERTRUDE THE GREAT, VIRGIN – FEAST DAY: NOVEMBER 16TH: Today, the Church joyfully commemorates the Memorial of Saint Margaret of Scotland (Patron of Widows, Mothers of Large Families, and Learning) and Saint Gertrude the Great, Virgin (Patron of Nuns, Travelers, and the West Indies). These holy women, though different in vocation, radiated extraordinary love for God and neighbor. Saint Margaret embodied Christian charity through her life as a queen, wife, and mother, lifting the poor, reforming the Church, and sanctifying family life. Saint Gertrude, a mystical theologian, revealed the depths of Christ’s Sacred Heart through her visions, writings, and contemplative union with God. Through their intercession, we pray today for all nuns and religious, for widows and widowers, for parents and children, and for the unity of families. We commend the sick, the dying, and all who suffer from chronic, mental, or terminal illnesses to God’s healing mercy. We remember the souls in Purgatory and the faithful departed, asking the Lord to grant them eternal rest. May these saints inspire us to live generously, think holily, and love deeply in all we do. 🙏🏾

Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections | November 16th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com

(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Margaret of Scotland, and Saint Gertrude the Great | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-november-16th/)

SAINT MARGARET OF SCOTLAND (1045–1093): Saint Margaret of Scotland, born into English royalty during a time of exile in Hungary, was raised in a home of deep faith and noble virtue. A descendant of the English royal line and grand-niece of Saint Edward the Confessor, she returned to England as a child, only for her family to flee once more during the Norman Conquest. Providence led them to Scotland, where Margaret’s path crossed with King Malcolm III. In 1070, at age twenty-five, she became Queen of Scotland. Margaret’s holiness transformed the royal household. Her gentle strength softened King Malcolm’s temper, her wisdom guided his governance, and her prayerful example uplifted the entire court. Their marriage bore eight children, each carefully raised in the fear and love of God.

Her charity was legendary. Every day she fed the poor—sometimes three hundred at once—serving them with her own hands, washing their feet, and tending to their wounds. She built monasteries, churches, and hospices, reformed abuses in the Church, and encouraged reverence in worship. Her influence helped shape Scotland’s spiritual and cultural identity, uniting the people in renewed devotion and justice. Margaret also convened important synods to restore proper observance of Lent, Easter duties, and sacramental life. Her personal piety was profound: she fasted, prayed, and gave alms tirelessly. In 1093, she died shortly after receiving news of the death of her husband and son in battle—a holy queen whose heart had been poured out for God and for her people.

She was canonized in 1250 and later declared Patroness of Scotland.
Patron Saint of: widows, parents who have lost children, large families, learning, and Scotland.

PRAYER: O God, You filled Saint Margaret with extraordinary charity and compassion for the poor. Through her intercession, make our hearts generous, our actions just, and our lives radiant with Your mercy. May we bring comfort to the suffering and hope to the weary, reflecting Your goodness in all we do. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT GERTRUDE THE GREAT, VIRGIN (1256–1302): Saint Gertrude the Great—one of the Church’s most beloved mystics—was born in Eisleben, Germany, and offered to the monastery of Helfta at the age of five. Under the spiritual guidance of the Abbess Gertrude of Hackeborn and alongside the mystic Saint Mechtilde, young Gertrude was immersed in a world of prayer, scholarship, and divine intimacy. Though brilliant and intellectually gifted, Gertrude initially became absorbed in secular learning, excelling in Latin, literature, music, and the arts. But at the age of twenty-five she experienced a profound spiritual crisis—followed by a transformative vision of Christ. From that moment, she abandoned all pursuits that did not lead to God, devoting herself entirely to Scripture, theology, and contemplation.

Her mystical experiences deepened her understanding of God’s love, particularly in the Sacred Heart of Jesus. She received revelations of divine mercy, wrote sublime theological works, and became a guide for countless souls seeking union with God. Her masterpiece, The Herald of Divine Love (Legatus Divinae Pietatis), remains one of the most important works of medieval mysticism—rich with poetic insight, theological depth, and spiritual beauty. Despite suffering from delicate health, Gertrude exemplified humility, obedience, and joyful service. Her profound devotion to the Eucharist and her tender love for the Blessed Virgin Mary shaped her spirituality and that of generations after her. She is the only female saint honored with the title “The Great,” a testament to her influence on the Church’s mystical and intellectual tradition.

Saint Gertrude died in 1302, consumed not by illness but by the fire of divine love.
Patron Saint of: nuns, travelers, the West Indies, and devotion to the Sacred Heart.

PRAYER: O God, You prepared a dwelling place for Yourself in the pure and loving heart of Saint Gertrude the Virgin. Through her intercession, dispel the darkness of our minds and renew our hearts with the light of Your presence. Grant that we may grow in wisdom, humility, and love, rejoicing always in the knowledge that You live and work within us. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏾

Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Margaret of Scotland, and Saint Gertrude the Great — Pray for us. 🙏🏾

GENERAL PRAYERS AND INTENTIONS | PRAYERS FOR PEACE | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/general-prayers-and-intentions/

PRAYER FOR VICTIMS OF NATURAL DISASTERS: We join our prayers to the prayers of others throughout the world, for the victims of natural disasters which have brought destruction and disaster to so many lives. We particularly pray for the victims of the recent Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean, for the people of Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and others who are facing the devastation caused by the hurricane. May God grant eternal rest to all those who lost their lives, restore what was lost, and console all those who are grieving, injured, or have lost loved ones. Amen 🙏🏽

WORLD MISSION SUNDAY (WMS) | OCTOBER 19, 2025 | Pope Leo XIV’s Message | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/world-mission-sunday-october-19-2025/

CANONIZATION OF SEVEN NEW SAINTS BY POPE LEO XIV | OCTOBER 19, 2025 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/pope-leo-xivs-canonization-of-seven-new-saints-october-19-2025/

LIST OF ALL NOVENAS | Month of November | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/list-of-all-novenas-november/

COMMON CATHOLIC PRAYERS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/common-catholic-prayers/

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 NOVEMBER: For the prevention of suicide. Let us pray that those who are struggling with suicidal thoughts might find the support, care and love they need in their community, and be open to the beauty of life.

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

DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER | MONTH OF THE HOLY SOULS: November is dedicated to the Holy Souls in Purgatory, a month of prayerful remembrance for all the faithful departed who await the joy of Heaven. The Church calls us to intercede for them through our prayers, sacrifices, and Masses, trusting in God’s mercy to purify their souls and welcome them into eternal light. These souls, known as the Church Suffering, are united with the Church Triumphant in Heaven and the Church Militant on earth, one communion of love bound together in Christ.

This devotion is beautifully expressed in the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls’ Day) on November 2, which follows the Solemnity of All Saints on November 1. As the liturgical year draws to a close, the Church invites us to reflect on eternity, on the hope of resurrection and the promise of Heaven. Each prayer offered for the departed becomes an act of mercy that brings comfort to their souls and strengthens our own journey toward holiness.

“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
May they rest in peace. Amen.” 🙏🏽

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12540

PRAYER INTENTIONS: As we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Margaret of Scotland and Saint Gertrude the Great, Virgin, we lift our hearts to God in grateful remembrance of their charity, humility, and deep devotion. Inspired by today’s Scriptures—which remind us of God’s justice, the call to perseverance, and the dignity of honest labor—we pray for grace to remain steadfast in faith amid trials, to work diligently in our vocations, and to trust in God’s enduring protection. We pray for widows, widowers, parents, and children, and for all families seeking unity, peace, and strength. Through the intercession of these holy women, we remember the poor, the sick, the dying, and all who suffer physically, mentally, or spiritually. We pray especially for religious sisters, all consecrated women, and those discerning a vocation to the religious life. May the souls in Purgatory be granted eternal rest through God’s mercy, and may the faithful departed be welcomed into His glorious kingdom. As the world faces uncertainty and unrest, may the virtues of Saint Margaret and the spiritual wisdom of Saint Gertrude inspire us to live with compassion, purity, and unwavering trust in God.

LET US PRAY:

My courageous Lord, You endured much suffering in life and embraced it with pure love. Please give me the grace I need to follow You wherever You lead and to be an instrument of Your voice to a world in need. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽

O God, You are our refuge and strength in every trial. As we meditate on Your Word today, grant us the grace to persevere with courage, to work with integrity, and to remain faithful in all circumstances. Through the intercession of Saint Margaret of Scotland and Saint Gertrude the Great, strengthen our families, heal the brokenhearted, comfort the suffering, and guide all who seek holiness of life. Make us instruments of charity, justice, and peace in our communities and help us keep our eyes fixed on the promise of eternal life. We entrust all our prayers, spoken and unspoken, to Your loving care. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏾

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Margaret of Scotland, and Saint Gertrude the Great ~ 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 on this Sunday of the Thirty-third Week in 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. As we continue our journey through the month of November, we lift our hearts in gratitude for the blessings of the past and entrust the days ahead into God’s loving hands. May this month, dedicated to praying for the Holy Souls, be filled with hope, peace, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ walks with us always. Alleluia! Have a blessed, safe, grace-filled, and fruitful Sunday, a fruitful week ahead and a peaceful continuation of the month of November. 🙏🏽

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

MEMORIAL OF SAINT MARGARET OF SCOTLAND, AND SAINT GERTRUDE THE GREAT, VIRGIN | NOVEMBER 16TH |

Leave a Reply Cancel reply