WEDNESDAY OF THE SEVENTEENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: JULY 30, 2025
MEMORIAL OF SAINT PETER CHRYSOLOGUS, BISHOP AND DOCTOR; SAINTS ABDON AND SENNEN, MARTYRS AND BLESSED SOLANUS CASEY, PRIEST | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day
(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Peter Chrysologus, Saints Abdon and Sennen, and Blessed Solanus Casey | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-july-30th/ )
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | July 30, 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-144/
Greetings and blessings, beloved family!
Today is Wednesday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time! We give thanks to God for the gift of life and the grace to see this month. During this 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. 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 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, Wednesday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading
Today’s Bible Readings: Wednesday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time | July 30, 2025
Reading 1: Exodus 34:29–35
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 99:5, 6, 7, 9
Gospel: Matthew 13:44–46
Gospel Reading: Matthew 13:44–46
“The Kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field… like a pearl of great price.”
“Jesus said to His disciples: “The Kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the Kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it.”
In today’s Gospel, Jesus offers two powerful parables to illustrate the incomparable value of the Kingdom of heaven. The two parables have much in common and yet they are quite distinct. In the first parable a day labourer unexpectedly comes upon treasure hidden in a field. In the second parable a wealthy merchant finds a precious pearl after much searching. These are two very different scenarios. Yet what both the farm labourer and the wealthy merchant have in common is the experience of joyful discovery and the resulting freedom to take the necessary steps to acquire what they have discovered. Jesus is saying that the kingdom of God is like that. The Gospel of Jesus is a treasure; it is a precious pearl. Some people discover it after much searching like the wealthy merchant; others stumble upon it when they are not explicitly looking for it like the day labourer. The key is, ‘What happens then?’ Are we prepared to take the decisive steps to hold on to what we have discovered? Like the two men in the parable, are we ready to sell everything to acquire this treasure? The Gospel reading seems to suggest that once we have tasted the treasure of the kingdom, of the person of Jesus, we will never be the same again; it will change us forever. We will do all we can to preserve that treasure, that pearl of great price. The beauty and wonder of the Gospel give us the freedom to live it, even though it may mean letting go of lesser treasures.
In our Gospel today, both the man who finds the treasure and the merchant who discovers the precious pearl respond in the same way: with total surrender. They joyfully sell everything to possess what they have found. These parables invite us to reflect on what the Kingdom of God means to us personally. Is it truly our greatest treasure? Are we willing to let go of lesser attachments our comfort, control, habits, or even good things for the sake of gaining Christ and His reign in our lives? The Gospel challenges us to prioritize God above all, not out of obligation, but with joy. The man sells everything out of joy this is key. The Kingdom isn’t a burden but the fulfillment of our deepest longing. It’s the “pearl of great price” that brings eternal peace and joy. The Kingdom is already among us in every act of love, in our moments of prayer, in choosing forgiveness, truth, and service. But to fully live in it, we must be willing to let go of whatever holds us back. Jesus reminds us that discipleship is not simply about adding God to our lives it’s about reordering our entire lives around Him.
Today’s first reading offers us a radiant image of transformation. Moses, having spent time in intimate conversation with the Lord, comes down from Mount Sinai unaware that the skin of his face is shining with divine light. His face is physically changed by the glory of God. The people are in awe, even fearful of his appearance. This moment beautifully shows us what happens when we dwell in God’s presence we are changed, sometimes even in ways we do not realize. The radiance on Moses’ face is not of his own making; it is a reflection of the divine. Similarly, when we abide in God, when we pray, meditate on His Word, receive the Sacraments, and walk in obedience, His grace transforms us from within. We may not shine with visible light, but the light of love, peace, and holiness becomes visible through our actions, words, and spirit. The veil Moses wears symbolizes how even great glory was still partially hidden in the old covenant. In the new covenant, through Christ, we behold God’s glory unveiled especially in the face of Jesus.
Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, the psalm today reminds us of the holiness of God and the honor due to Him. “Holy is the Lord our God,” we declare again and again. Moses, Aaron, and Samuel called upon Him, and He answered them. God is not distant He is holy, yes but He is also close to those who seek Him. The Psalm reinforces that the God who spoke through the cloud is still speaking, still guiding, still responding to those who call on His name with faith and reverence.
As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we are challenged to ask: What are the “pearls” or “treasures” I am seeking in life? Do I recognize the incomparable worth of God’s Kingdom, and am I willing to let go of all that hinders me from pursuing it fully? Have I made space in my life for deep communion with God, as Moses did? Do I reflect the light of Christ in my daily choices, words, and witness? Am I growing in holiness through time spent in God’s presence or am I veiling my soul by staying distant from Him? Let us not settle for the fleeting treasures of this world when God offers us eternal joy in His Kingdom. The person who finds the treasure in the field doesn’t hesitate he sells all, not reluctantly, but with joy. May we, too, be willing to reorder our lives in light of God’s truth, beauty, and glory. And like Moses, may we spend time in God’s presence so that our lives shine with the radiance of His grace, becoming living witnesses to the holiness and love of our Lord. 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 Jesus, You are the pearl of great price, the hidden treasure worth more than all the world can offer. Teach us to seek You above all things, and to follow You with joyful, willing hearts. May we not be afraid to surrender what is temporary in order to gain what is eternal. Help us to abide in Your presence like Moses, so that we too may reflect Your light and radiate Your holiness to those around us. Let Your Kingdom reign more fully in our hearts and lives today. Amen. 🙏🏾
MEMORIAL OF SAINT PETER CHRYSOLOGUS, BISHOP AND DOCTOR; SAINTS ABDON AND SENNEN, MARTYRS AND BLESSED SOLANUS CASEY, PRIEST ~ FEAST DAY – JULY 30TH: Today, the Church joyfully honors Saint Peter Chrysologus (Patron of preachers and theologians), Bishop of Ravenna and Doctor of the Church known for his eloquent preaching and clarity in teaching the faith; Saints Abdon and Sennen (Patrons of children and the falsely accused), Persian nobles and courageous early Christian martyrs who bore witness to Christ in Rome; and Blessed Solanus Casey (Patron of those with arthritis and the sick), a humble Capuchin friar from the United States, revered for his healing ministry, simplicity, and quiet holiness.
Through the intercession of these holy ones and of Our Blessed Mother Mary, we lift our hearts in prayer today for children around the world, for peace, healing, and unity in our families, for the poor and vulnerable, and for those suffering from terminal illnesses, especially cancer. We remember the dying and those facing trials or persecution. May the Church be strengthened, sinners be converted, and all Christians rekindle the flame of faith, hope, and love. 🙏🏾
Saint (s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | July 30th | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Peter Chrysologus, Saints Abdon and Sennen, and Blessed Solanus Casey| https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-july-30th/ )
SAINT PETER CHRYSOLOGUS, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (C. 406–450): Known as the “Doctor of Homilies,” Saint Peter Chrysologus (“golden-worded”) was born in Imola, Italy, and became Archbishop of Ravenna around 433 A.D. His brilliant oratory earned him the nickname Chrysologus, meaning “golden speech.” Peter’s sermons were short, theologically rich, and accessible to everyday believers, helping the faithful understand complex mysteries with simplicity and grace.
Appointed bishop by divine providence after being presented in Rome by his mentor, Bishop Cornelius he governed his flock with wisdom, zeal, and mercy. He worked fervently to eliminate lingering pagan practices and heresies in his diocese, and was known for urging frequent Holy Communion and warning against moral laxity, especially indecent behavior. One of his striking quotes reminds us: “Anyone who wishes to frolic with the devil cannot rejoice with Christ.”
Saint Peter’s life was marked by integrity, charity, and a profound commitment to the truth of the Gospel. His clarity and compassion in preaching earned him not just the love of his people, but the admiration of emperors and popes. Declared a Doctor of the Church in 1729 by Pope Benedict XIII, his legacy lives on in his many preserved sermons.
PRAYER: O God, who made Saint Peter Chrysologus a wise and eloquent preacher of Your Word made flesh, grant that we may ponder the mysteries of salvation with clarity of mind and live them out in loving service. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏾
SAINTS ABDON AND SENNEN, MARTYRS (D. C. 250): Saints Abdon and Sennen were Persian nobles who journeyed to Rome and were arrested during the brutal persecution under Emperor Decius. Known for secretly burying the bodies of Christian martyrs, they were apprehended and commanded to offer sacrifice to Roman gods. When they refused and boldly confessed Christ as Lord, they were paraded in chains and publicly humiliated.
Miraculously unharmed by lions and bears in the arena, they were eventually slain by the sword. Their bodies were buried in secret by the deacon Quirinus and later venerated in Rome. Though little is known, their courage speaks volumes about the love of God that surpasses all fear. They remind us that true nobility lies not in earthly status, but in unwavering fidelity to Christ. They are patrons of children, good harvests, and are invoked for protection against natural disasters like hail.
PRAYER: Saints Abdon and Sennen, courageous witnesses of the Gospel, pray for us to remain steadfast in trials. Strengthen persecuted Christians around the world, and intercede for those in fear, that they may find courage in Christ. Amen. 🙏🏾
BLESSED SOLANUS CASEY, PRIEST (1870–1957): Born Bernard Francis Casey in Wisconsin, Blessed Solanus Casey was a humble Capuchin friar known for his quiet holiness and spiritual wisdom. Though academically limited and ordained a simplex priest unable to preach doctrinal sermons or hear confessions his humble service as porter (doorkeeper) at the monastery became a source of healing and miracles for thousands.
He greeted everyone with warmth, offered sound spiritual advice, and had a deep compassion for the sick and suffering. His prayerful presence transformed countless lives in Detroit, where he lived most of his religious life. His deep love for the Eucharist, devotion to Mary, and trust in Divine Providence made him a beloved figure of American Catholicism.
He was beatified on November 18, 2017, and continues to inspire many to holiness in the hidden and ordinary duties of life.
PRAYER: Blessed Solanus Casey, model of humility and joyful trust, pray for us. Teach us to serve others with love, embrace the little things with faith, and walk confidently in God’s providence. Amen. 🙏🏾
Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Peter Chrysologus, Saints Abdon and Sennen, and Blessed Solanus Casey ~ 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: Heavenly Father, with grateful hearts, we lift our prayers through the intercession of Saint Peter Chrysologus, Saints Abdon and Sennen, and Blessed Solanus Casey. Inspired by the radiant face of Moses in today’s readings and the priceless treasure of Your Kingdom described by Jesus, we pray for a deepened longing for holiness and for the wisdom to seek what is eternal above all else. We bring before You the needs of those who preach and teach the faith, that they may do so with courage and clarity. We entrust to You the innocent who suffer injustice, the sick especially those with terminal illnesses and the poor in spirit who long for healing and peace. Lord, strengthen families, bless those undergoing trials or persecution, and rekindle in all Christians the desire to live as true witnesses of Your Kingdom.
LET US PRAY
My Lord of all riches, You bestow upon me and upon all Your children countless graces every day. The treasures of Your mercy are of infinite value. Please open my eyes so that I can see and my ears so that I can hear so as to discover all that You wish to bestow. May You and the riches of Your Kingdom become the one and only, all-consuming focus of my life. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽
Lord God, You are the treasure beyond all earthly riches, and the joy that fills the hearts of those who seek You. Just as Moses reflected Your glory and the saints bore witness to Your truth, help us to live with radiant faith and unwavering love. Through the prayers of Saint Peter Chrysologus, Saints Abdon and Sennen, and Blessed Solanus Casey, may we grow in humility, perseverance, and trust in Your divine providence. Teach us to treasure the Gospel above all else and to joyfully share it with others. May our lives become reflections of Your mercy and our hearts burn with desire for Your Kingdom. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏾
Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Peter Chrysologus, Saints Abdon and Sennen, and Blessed Solanus Casey ~ 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 Wednesday 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