MEMORIAL OF SAINT SCHOLASTICA, VIRGIN AND SAINT JOSÉ LUIS SÁNCHEZ DEL RÍO, MARTYR: FEAST DAY ~ FEBRUARY 10TH 2026

TUESDAY OF THE FIFTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

SAINTS OF THE DAY | FEBRUARY 10, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-february-10th/

MEMORIAL OF SAINT SCHOLASTICA, VIRGIN AND SAINT JOSÉ LUIS SÁNCHEZ DEL RÍO, MARTYR

History of the Saints | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | February 10, 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-10-2026/

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, Tuesday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time, the Church celebrates the Memorial of Saint Scholastica, Virgin, and Saint José Luis Sánchez del Río, Martyr, and invites us to reflect on a faith that flows from the heart and is lived with integrity. In today’s Gospel, Jesus challenges outward religiosity that neglects inner conversion, reminding us that true worship is not found in empty traditions but in hearts sincerely oriented toward God. This call is echoed in the prayer of Solomon in the First Reading, which acknowledges that no earthly structure can contain God, yet He listens attentively to the prayers offered in humility and truth, while the Psalm expresses the deep longing of the soul to dwell in the presence of the Lord. These themes are powerfully embodied in today’s saints: in the quiet, prayerful life of Saint Scholastica, whose love-filled prayer pleased God more than rigid observance, and in the courageous witness of Saint José Luis Sánchez del Río, whose youthful faith remained pure and unwavering even unto death. Together, the Word of God and the example of these saints call us to examine our hearts, to live an authentic faith, and to allow our love for God to shape our words, actions, and choices.

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.

BIBLE READINGS FOR TODAY’S HOLY MASS:

Fifth Week in Ordinary Time | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading

Today’s Bible Readings: Memorial of Saint Scholastica, Virgin | February 10, 2026
Reading 1: 1 Kings 8:22–23, 27–30
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 84:3–5, 10–11
Gospel: Mark 7:1–13

Gospel Reading ~ Mark 7:1–13

“This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.”

When the Pharisees with some scribes who had come from Jerusalem gathered around Jesus, they observed that some of his disciples ate their meals with unclean, that is, unwashed, hands. (For the Pharisees and, in fact, all Jews, do not eat without carefully washing their hands, keeping the tradition of the elders. And on coming from the marketplace they do not eat without purifying themselves. And there are many other things that they have traditionally observed, the purification of cups and jugs and kettles and beds.) So the Pharisees and scribes questioned him, “Why do your disciples not follow the tradition of the elders but instead eat a meal with unclean hands?” He responded, “Well did Isaiah prophesy about you hypocrites, as it is written: This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; In vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines human precepts. You disregard God’s commandment but cling to human tradition.” He went on to say, “How well you have set aside the commandment of God in order to uphold your tradition! For Moses said, Honor your father and your mother, and Whoever curses father or mother shall die. Yet you say, ‘If someone says to father or mother, “Any support you might have had from me is qorban”‘ (meaning, dedicated to God), you allow him to do nothing more for his father or mother. You nullify the word of God in favor of your tradition that you have handed on. And you do many such things.” 

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS

In today’s Gospel, Jesus confronts a subtle yet dangerous temptation in religious life: substituting external practices for interior conversion. The Pharisees were meticulous about ritual purity, yet Jesus exposes how their hearts had drifted from God. By clinging to human traditions while neglecting God’s commandments, they created a form of worship that looked holy but lacked genuine love. Jesus reminds us that faith cannot be reduced to appearances; true devotion begins within the heart and is expressed through obedience, mercy, and integrity.

This Gospel challenges us to examine our own spiritual lives. It is possible to observe religious customs, speak holy words, and still remain distant from God. Jesus is not condemning tradition itself, but the misuse of tradition when it replaces love of God and neighbor. Authentic faith transforms the heart first, and from that transformed heart flows genuine worship and faithful action.

The First Reading from the Book of Kings offers a beautiful contrast. Solomon acknowledges God’s greatness, recognizing that no temple, however magnificent, can contain Him. Yet he humbly asks the Lord to listen to the prayers offered in that sacred place. This prayer reveals a heart aware of its dependence on God—a heart that seeks mercy, forgiveness, and communion. Solomon’s posture reminds us that God desires not impressive structures or perfect rituals, but humble hearts that turn toward Him in trust.

The Responsorial Psalm deepens this longing: “How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord, mighty God!” It expresses a soul that yearns for God’s presence, finding joy not in formality but in intimacy. The psalmist teaches us that closeness to God is the true source of happiness, and that even one day in His presence outweighs all worldly comfort.

Together, today’s readings invite us to move beyond surface-level religion and rediscover a faith rooted in love and sincerity. On this Memorial of Saint Scholastica, whose life was marked by prayer, humility, and deep union with God, we are reminded that holiness is not about strict observance alone, but about a heart fully given to the Lord.

As we reflect today, let us ask ourselves: Do my words and actions reflect a heart close to God? Have I allowed habits or routines to replace genuine prayer and love? Where is God inviting me to deepen my interior life and realign my heart with His will?

Let us pray: Lord Jesus, purify our hearts so that our worship may be sincere and pleasing to You. Help us to let go of anything that distances us from Your commandments and draw us into deeper communion with You. May our faith be lived not only in words and rituals, but through love, humility, and obedience. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINTS OF THE DAY | FEBRUARY 10TH:

Link to Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections| February 10th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com

Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Scholastica, and Saint José Luis Sánchez del Río | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-february-10th/

SAINT SCHOLASTICA, VIRGIN: Saint Scholastica (c. 480–543) was an Italian virgin consecrated to God and the twin sister of Saint Benedict of Nursia, the founder of Western monasticism. From an early age, she devoted her life entirely to prayer, seeking God with a heart rooted in love rather than rule alone. Though she lived a hidden life, her deep intimacy with God was revealed in her final meeting with her brother, when her humble prayer moved heaven itself, teaching that love can accomplish what strict discipline cannot. Saint Scholastica is remembered as a model of contemplative prayer, gentle perseverance, and trust in God’s will. She is the patron saint of nuns, convulsive children, and those seeking protection from storms.

PRAYER: God our Father, You filled Saint Scholastica with a deep love for You and a heart devoted to prayer. Through her intercession, teach us to seek You with sincerity, humility, and trust, and to love You above all things. May our prayer draw us ever closer to Your heart. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT JOSÉ LUIS SÁNCHEZ DEL RÍO, MARTYR: Saint José Luis Sánchez del Río (1913–1928) was a young Mexican martyr who bore courageous witness to Christ during the persecution of the Church in the Cristero War. Though only fourteen years old, his faith was strong and unwavering. Refusing to renounce Christ, even under intense suffering, he boldly proclaimed his love for Jesus and devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe until his death. His heroic courage remains a powerful testimony that holiness is not measured by age but by faithfulness to God. He is the patron saint of persecuted Christians, children, adolescents, and the city of Sahuayo.

PRAYER: Lord God, You strengthened Saint José Luis Sánchez del Río with unwavering faith and courage beyond his years. Through his intercession, grant perseverance to all who suffer for their faith, especially children, youth, and persecuted Christians. May we remain faithful to You in every trial. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Scholastica, and Saint José Luis Sánchez del Río — pray for us. 🙏🏽

PRAYER INTENTION FOR THE DAY: FOR FAITHFUL LOVE, COURAGE, AND PERSEVERANCE IN CHRIST

Through the intercession of Saint Scholastica, Virgin (patron saint of nuns and those seeking protection from storms), and Saint José Luis Sánchez del Río, Martyr (patron saint of persecuted Christians, children, and youth), let us pray for the grace to love God with sincere hearts and to remain faithful to Him in every circumstance. May we learn from Saint Scholastica that prayer rooted in love has great power before God, and that a gentle, trusting heart draws us closer to His will. May the courageous witness of Saint José Luis Sánchez del Río strengthen all who face trials for their faith, especially young people and those suffering persecution, that they may stand firm in hope and truth. United with their example, may the Church continue to shine as a light in the world, bearing witness to Christ with courage, humility, and unwavering love. 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 Scholastica, and Saint José Luis Sánchez del Río ~ 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/