FRIDAY OF THE FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
SAINTS OF THE DAY | FEBRUARY 6, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-february-6th/
MEMORIAL OF SAINT PAUL MIKI AND COMPANIONS, MARTYRS AND SAINT DORATHY, VIRGIN AND MARTYR
History of the Saints | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | February 6, 2026 | “Holy Mass from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | Pray “Holy Rosary Novena From Lourdes” | Pray “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-daily-mass-february-6-2026/
FIRST FRIDAYS AND FIRST SATURDAYS DEVOTIONS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/02/01/first-fridays-and-first-saturdays-devotions/
FIRST FRIDAYS DEVOTION: https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/03/first-friday-devotion-to-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus/
NOVENA IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF LOURDES [Novena Starts: February 2nd; Feastday: February 11th] https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/novena-to-our-lady-of-lourdes/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family!
Today, Friday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time, the Church commemorates the Memorial of Saint Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs (patrons of persecuted Christians and missionaries), and Saint Dorothy, Virgin and Martyr, heroic witnesses who remained faithful to Christ even unto death. Their joyful courage, purity of heart, and unwavering trust in the Lord shine as powerful testimonies to the strength of faith amid suffering, persecution, and injustice. Today also marks the First Friday of the month, dedicated to devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which invites us to contemplate Christ’s boundless love poured out for humanity, to make reparation for sins, and to grow in trust and fidelity. In today’s Scripture readings, we are reminded of God’s faithfulness to those who love Him wholeheartedly, as King David’s life is remembered for his devotion and praise of God, and the Gospel confronts us with the cost of proclaiming the truth in a world resistant to it. United with the witness of Saint Paul Miki, his companions, and Saint Dorothy, we are invited to stand firm in our faith, to persevere in fidelity despite trials, and to bear courageous witness to Christ with hope, forgiveness, and trust in God’s saving power. 🙏🏽
Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day and for His faithful presence as we begin the month of February, we come before Him with hearts open to His continual guidance and grace. This month, traditionally dedicated to the Passion of Our Lord, invites us to turn our gaze toward the mystery of Christ’s suffering and self-giving love, offered for the redemption of mankind. As we begin to meditate on His Passion in anticipation of the sacred season of Lent, may the witness of the saints who held a deep devotion to Christ’s suffering, such as Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint John of the Cross, Saint Bridget of Sweden, and Saint Catherine of Siena inspire us to embrace each day with holiness, humility, and love. Through this devotion, may our hearts grow more attentive to the depth of Christ’s sacrifice and more responsive to His call to follow Him faithfully in our daily lives. We lift our hearts in thanksgiving for the greatest gift ever given: God Himself, present with us each day, bringing light, hope, and salvation into our lives and into the world.
FIRST FRIDAYS AND FIRST SATURDAYS DEVOTIONS:
The FIRST FRIDAY DEVOTION is a Catholic practice that involves attending Mass, receiving Holy Communion and praying and adoring before the Blessed Sacrament on the first Friday of each month for nine months in a row. The devotion originated in the 17th century after Jesus appeared to St. Margaret Mary and spoke of His Sacred Heart. Jesus promised that those who receive Holy Communion on the First Fridays of nine consecutive months will receive the grace of final perseverance. The devotion is a way to honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus and to atone for sins. The devotion is also known as the Communions of Reparation to the Sacred Heart or the Nine First Fridays Devotion. The Roman Catholic Church fully approved the devotion.
Some elements of the First Fridays Devotion include:
Sacramental Confession: A preparation for the devotion
Holy Communion: Received on the first Friday of each month for nine months in a row
Holy Hour: Spent in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament
Prayer for the Holy Father: A prayer for the intentions of the Holy Father
The devotion is said to offer many spiritual blessings, including:
Increased Grace: The soul is strengthened and intimacy with Christ is deepened through the frequent reception of the Eucharist
Inner Peace: Trusting in Jesus’ promises can bring comfort in times of trial
Forgiveness and Healing: Reparation for sins can bring peace to the heart and renewal in Christ
Final Perseverance: Those who complete the devotion with love and faith are assured of Christ’s presence at the moment of death
The FIVE FIRST SATURDAYS DEVOTION originated from the 1917 apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Fatima, Portugal. During these apparitions, Our Lady asked for acts of reparation to be made on the first Saturday of five consecutive months, with the intention of atoning for the sins committed against her Immaculate Heart. While the Sacred Heart of Jesus promises abundant blessings, including peace, consolation, and assistance at the hour of death, to those who faithfully observe nine consecutive First Fridays. Similarly, Our Lady extends her maternal protection and the promise of salvation to those who commit to five consecutive First Saturdays in honor of her Immaculate Heart.
Our Lady promises her assistance and graces especially at the hour of death, as well as peace and consolation in families and eventual salvation for those who faithfully practice the First Five Saturdays devotion. It involves attending Mass, receiving communion, praying the Rosary, and meditating on its mysteries on 5 consecutive first Saturdays with the intention of making reparation to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
The promises of Mary for the First Five Saturdays devotion:
On each First Saturday, after receiving communion, reciting the Rosary, and meditating for 15 minutes on the mysteries of the Rosary, Our Lady promised to assist at the hour of death with all the graces necessary for salvation all those who make this devotion in reparation to Her Immaculate Heart.
Our Lady promised to grant peace to families who fulfill this devotion.
Those who fulfill the devotion will be consoled by Our Lady and will see Her eventually in heaven.
Our Lady promised to assist in the salvation of those who practice this devotion by the graces of Her Immaculate Heart.
These First Saturday Prayers to the Immaculate Heart of Mary are recommended for those participating in the Five First Saturdays devotion.
Please see links below for both First Fridays and First Saturdays Devotions:
First Fridays Devotion: https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/03/first-friday-devotion-to-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus/
First Fridays and First Saturdays Devotions: https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/03/first-fridays-first-saturdays-devotions/
BIBLE READINGS FOR TODAY’S HOLY MASS:
Fourth Week in Ordinary Time | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading
Today’s Bible Readings: Memorial of Saint Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs | February 6, 2026
Reading 1: Sirach 47:2–11
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 18:31, 47, 50, 51
Gospel: Mark 6:14–29
Gospel Reading ~ Mark 6:14–29
“It is John whom I beheaded. He has been raised up.”
King Herod heard about Jesus, for his fame had become widespread, and people were saying, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead; that is why mighty powers are at work in him.” Others were saying, “He is Elijah”; still others, “He is a prophet like any of the prophets.” But when Herod learned of it, he said,
“It is John whom I beheaded. He has been raised up.” Herod was the one who had John arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, whom he had married. John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so. Herod feared John, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man, and kept him in custody. When he heard him speak he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him. Herodias had an opportunity one day when Herod, on his birthday, gave a banquet for his courtiers, his military officers, and the leading men of Galilee. His own daughter came in and performed a dance that delighted Herod and his guests. The king said to the girl, “Ask of me whatever you wish and I will grant it to you.” He even swore many things to her, “I will grant you whatever you ask of me, even to half of my kingdom.” She went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” Her mother replied, “The head of John the Baptist.” The girl hurried back to the king’s presence and made her request, “I want you to give me at once on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” The king was deeply distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests he did not wish to break his word to her. So he promptly dispatched an executioner with orders to bring back his head. He went off and beheaded him in the prison. He brought in the head on a platter and gave it to the girl. The girl in turn gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS
In today’s Gospel, we encounter the tragic account of the martyrdom of John the Baptist—a man who spoke the truth without compromise and paid the ultimate price for his fidelity to God. King Herod is haunted by guilt and fear, unable to escape the consequences of his choices. Though he recognized John as a righteous and holy man and even listened to him with interest, Herod lacked the courage to act justly. Bound by pride, fear of public opinion, and sinful attachments, he chose self-preservation over truth, leading to grave injustice.
This passage reveals the danger of a divided heart. Herod admired holiness but refused conversion. He knew the truth but did not live it. His weakness contrasts sharply with John’s courage, reminding us that knowing what is right is not enough—we must also have the strength to act on it. True discipleship demands integrity, even when obedience comes at great personal cost.
In the First Reading, Sirach praises King David as a man chosen by God, strengthened not by his own power but by his reliance on the Most High. From his youth to his kingship, David acknowledged that victory, authority, and forgiveness come from God alone. Despite his imperfections, David’s life was marked by gratitude, repentance, and a deep love for his Creator. His example teaches us that greatness in God’s eyes flows from humility, praise, and trust in divine mercy.
The Responsorial Psalm echoes this truth, proclaiming the Lord as our rock, shield, and salvation. It reminds us that God’s promises are tested and true, and that He gives victory to those who take refuge in Him. Praise becomes the natural response of a heart that recognizes God as the source of strength and deliverance.
Together, today’s readings confront us with a choice: to live with courage and fidelity like David and John the Baptist, or to allow fear, pride, and indecision to silence the truth within us. God calls us not to half-hearted faith, but to wholehearted commitment.
As we reflect today, let us ask ourselves: Do I listen to God’s Word but hesitate to act on it? Am I willing to stand for truth even when it is costly? Do I trust God as my strength and salvation in moments of fear and uncertainty?
Let us pray: Lord God, You are our rock and our salvation. Strengthen our hearts to choose truth over fear, obedience over compromise, and faith over self-interest. Grant us the courage to live with integrity and to trust fully in Your mercy and power. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
SAINTS OF THE DAY | FEBRUARY 6TH:
Link to Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections| February 6th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com
Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Paul Miki and Companions, and Saint Dorothy | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-february-6th/
SAINT PAUL MIKI AND COMPANIONS, MARTYRS: Saint Paul Miki (1562–1597), a native of Japan and a Jesuit priest, together with his companions, stands among the earliest and most powerful witnesses of Christian faith in East Asia. Converted through the missionary work of Saint Francis Xavier, Paul Miki became a gifted preacher who boldly proclaimed the Gospel during a time of growing persecution. Along with twenty-five companions, Jesuits, Franciscans, and lay faithful, including catechists, artisans, soldiers, physicians, and even children, he was arrested and forced to march hundreds of miles to Nagasaki. Repeatedly offered freedom in exchange for renouncing their faith, they remained steadfast. On February 6, 1597, they were crucified on a hill overlooking Nagasaki, where they prayed, sang hymns, forgave their persecutors, and bore joyful witness to Christ. From the cross, Saint Paul Miki preached his final sermon, declaring that he died for no other reason than his faith in Jesus Christ, and urging all to seek true happiness in Him. Their martyrdom became a seed of faith for future generations, as thousands of Christians secretly preserved the faith in Japan for centuries despite severe persecution.
PRAYER: O God, who strengthened Saint Paul Miki and his companions to confess Christ even unto death, grant us, through their intercession, courage to remain faithful in times of trial, perseverance in suffering, and hearts ready to forgive as Christ forgave. May we boldly profess the faith we have received and remain steadfast in hope of eternal life. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
SAINT DOROTHY, VIRGIN AND MARTYR: Saint Dorothy (c. 279–311), whose name means “gift of God,” was a young virgin from Caesarea in Cappadocia who gave heroic witness to Christ during the persecution under Emperor Diocletian. Orphaned after her parents were martyred, she consecrated herself entirely to Christ, choosing Him as her only Spouse. When pressured to renounce her faith through threats, torture, and promises of marriage, she remained unshaken, radiating peace and joy even amid severe suffering. Her faith proved so powerful that two women sent to corrupt her were instead converted and returned to Christ. Sentenced to death by beheading, Dorothy praised God for calling her to eternal union with Him. On her way to execution, she promised a mocking lawyer, Theophilus, roses and apples from the garden of her heavenly Bridegroom; after her death, a miraculous sign fulfilled this promise, leading to his conversion and eventual martyrdom. Saint Dorothy’s life remains a radiant testimony to purity, hope in heaven, and joyful fidelity to Christ.
PRAYER: Lord God, You crowned Saint Dorothy with purity of heart and the glory of martyrdom. Through her intercession, strengthen us to remain faithful amid trials, joyful in suffering, and steadfast in hope of eternal life. May we desire above all the everlasting joys of heaven and trust fully in Your promises. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Paul Miki and Companions, and Saint Dorothy — pray for us. 🙏🏽
PRAYER INTENTION FOR THE DAY: FOR PERSEVERANCE IN FAITH AMID PERSECUTION
Through the intercession of Saint Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs (patrons of persecuted Christians and missionaries), let us pray for all who suffer for their faith in Christ. May those facing persecution, hostility, or discrimination because of the Gospel be strengthened with courage, peace, and unwavering hope. Inspired by the joyful witness of Saint Paul Miki and his companions who forgave their persecutors and proclaimed Christ even at the hour of death, may the Church remain steadfast in truth, bold in love, and faithful in witness. We also pray for missionaries and evangelizers around the world, that they may persevere with trust in God’s grace, bearing fruit even in hardship. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
PRAYER FOR PEACE | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/a-prayer-for-peace/
THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2026: FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY: For children with incurable diseases. Let us pray that children suffering from incurable diseases and their families receive the necessary medical care and support, never losing strength and hope.
(https://popesprayerusa.net/popes-intentions/)
DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY: MONTH OF THE PASSION OF OUR LORD: The month of February is traditionally dedicated to the Passion of Our Lord in anticipation of the liturgical season of Lent. In this month, we begin to meditate on the mystery of Jesus’ sufferings which culminated in his death on the Cross for the redemption of mankind. Saints who had a special devotion to Christ’s passion include St. Francis of Assisi, who was the first known saint to receive the stigmata; St. John of the Cross; St. Bridget of Sweden; and St. Catherine of Siena.
https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/month.cfm?y=2026&m=2
PRAYER FOR THE DEAD
We pray for the repose of the gentle souls of our loved ones and souls of all the faithful departed. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon them. May their gentle souls through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ… Amen 🙏🏽
As we step forward into this new month, may this Ordinary Time invite us to begin again with renewed faith, deeper trust, and a greater openness to God’s grace. May the peace, hope, and steady guidance that flow from walking daily with Christ shape our steps, inform our decisions, and strengthen our resolve to live each day in love and holiness. As we journey onward, may God bless our families and loved ones, and may His light continue to shine brightly in every home. May the days of this new month be grace-filled and purposeful, drawing us ever deeper into a lived relationship with the Lord and the quiet assurance of His abiding presence with us always. 🙏🏽
Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Paul Miki and Companions, and Saint Dorothy ~ Pray for us 🙏🏾
Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you. Jesus, I trust in you! Immaculate Heart of Mary, Pray for us. Amen 🙏🏽
Blessings and Love always, Philomena 💖
DEVOTIONAL RESOURCES
A Guide to Catholic Prayer & Faith Resources: Prayers, Devotions, Teachings, and the Liturgical Year | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-prayer-faith-resources/
Catholic Mission & Witness: Foundations, Media Features, Global Outreach and Podcast Interview | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/catholic-mission-witness-foundations-media-features-and-global-outreach/
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