MONDAY OF THE EIGHTEENTH WEEK IN OREINARY TIME | YEAR A | AUGUST 3, 2026

MONDAY OF THE EIGHTEENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME | YEAR A | AUGUST 3, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/monday-of-the-eighteenth-week-in-oreinary-time-year-a-august-3-2026/

SAINTS OF THE DAY | AUGUST 3, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-august-3rd/

THE  FEAST OF FINDING OF SAINT STEPHEN’S RELICS; MEMORIAL OF SAINT LYDIA PURPURARIA; BLESSED AUGUSTINE GAZOTICH, BISHOP AND MARTYRS OF THE SPANISH CIVIL WAR

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

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | August 3, 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-august-3-2026/

DAILY PRAYERS: St. Michael the Archangel Prayer; Angelus Prayer; and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy Prayer | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/st-michael-the-archangel-prayer-angelus-prayer-and-the-chaplet-of-divine-mercy-prayer-2/

THE HOLY ROSARY: WHAT IS THE HOLY ROSARY AND WHY DO WE PRAY THE HOLY ROSARY? | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/the-holy-rosary-what-is-the-holy-rosary-and-why-do-we-pray-the-holy-rosary/

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Greetings and blessings, beloved family!

Today, as we enter the Monday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time, the Church commemorates The Finding of Saint Stephen’s Relics, Saint Lydia Purpuraria, Blessed Augustine Gazotich, and the Martyrs of the Spanish Civil War. In today’s Gospel, as the disciples are tossed by waves in the dark of night, Jesus walks across the water to meet them, encouraging Peter to step out in faith and extending His saving hand the moment fear begins to sink him. This call to unshakeable trust and truth is echoed throughout today’s readings and feast days. While the prophet Jeremiah warns against false security and calls us to ground ourselves in God’s unyielding truth, today’s holy witnesses show us what it means to keep our eyes fixed on Christ. In the miraculous discovery of Saint Stephen’s relics, in Saint Lydia’s open-hearted hospitality to the Apostles, in Blessed Augustine’s dedicated pastoral care, and in the heroic witness of the Spanish Martyrs, we see that no storm or trial can overwhelm those who place their trust in the Lord.

BIBLE READINGS FOR TODAY’S HOLY MASS:

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

Today’s Bible Readings for Monday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time | Monday, August 3, 2026
Reading 1: Jeremiah 28:1-17
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119:29, 43, 79, 80, 95, 102
Gospel: Matthew 14:22-36

Gospel Reading ~ Matthew 14:22-36

“Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, ‘O you of little faith, why did you doubt?’”

“Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and precede him to the other side of the sea, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. ‘It is a ghost,’ they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, ‘Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.’ Peter said to him in reply, ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.’ He said, ‘Come.’ Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, ‘O you of little faith, why did you doubt?’ After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, ‘Truly, you are the Son of God.’ After making the crossing, they came to land at Gennesaret. When the men of that place recognized him, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought to him all those who were sick and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak, and as many as touched it were healed.”

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS

In today’s Gospel, Jesus steps into the storms of our lives to bring peace and reveal His divine power. After spending time alone in prayer, Jesus walks on the stormy sea toward His terrified disciples. Encouraged by Christ’s call, Peter steps out of the boat onto the water. Yet, the moment Peter takes his eyes off Jesus and focuses on the fierce wind, fear takes over, and he begins to sink. In his desperation, Peter cries out the simplest, most powerful prayer: “Lord, save me!” Instantly, Jesus reaches out His hand and pulls him to safety. This moment reminds us that walking through life’s storms requires keeping our eyes fixed on Christ rather than the overwhelming winds of worry around us.

In the First Reading, the prophet Jeremiah exposes the danger of false comfort. The false prophet Hananiah offers easy, deceptive promises to the people, but Jeremiah delivers God’s unyielding truth. Hananiah’s false hope led the people into rebellion, reminding us that genuine peace is found only in God’s truth, not in pleasant illusions.

The Responsorial Psalm echoes this yearning for authenticity, crying out, “Remove from me the way of falsehood, and favor me with your law… Lord, teach me your statutes.”

Today’s readings invite us to evaluate where we place our trust when trials arise. Are we anchored in the truth of God’s Word, or are we swayed by false promises? When the winds of life blow fiercely against us, may we have the courage to step out in faith, keep our focus on Jesus, and trust that His outstretched hand is always ready to save us.

Heavenly Father, You are our refuge and strength in the midst of every storm. Forgive us for the times we take our eyes off You and allow fear, doubt, and false securities to overwhelm our hearts. Teach us Your truth and deliver us from the ways of falsehood. When the waves of life rise against us, grant us the faith to step forward with courage, and extend Your saving hand to catch us whenever we stumble. We place our lives, our families, and our cares into Your loving hands. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINTS OF THE DAY | AUGUST 3RD:

Link to Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections | August 3rd https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com

Direct link to the detailed history of the Finding of Saint Stephen, Saint Lydia, Blessed Augustine, and the Spanish Martyrs, and the Seven Holy Maccabees | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-august-3rd/

THE FINDING OF SAINT STEPHEN’S RELICS: Today we commemorate the miraculous discovery in 415 A.D. of the body of Saint Stephen, the Church’s first martyr. His remains were found outside Jerusalem at Caphargamala, through a vision given to the priest Lucian. The translation of the relics led to a great outpouring of healing and conversions. Eventually, parts of the relics were taken to Constantinople and Rome. Stephen’s body, long hidden, was raised in glory reminding us that nothing sacred is ever lost in God’s eyes. His life, death, and even the miraculous discovery of his relics call us to bold faith and unwavering witness to Christ.

PRAYER: Saint Stephen, proto-martyr and fearless witness, pray that we may not fear suffering but be found faithful in every trial. 🙏🏾

SAINT LYDIA PURPURARIA (1st Century): Saint Lydia, a wealthy merchant of purple cloth in Philippi, was the first recorded convert to Christianity in Europe. Moved by Paul’s preaching, she and her household were baptized, and she opened her home to the apostles. Her house became a center of Christian community. Lydia’s life is a testament to the power of hospitality, open-heartedness, and faith. She reminds us that the Church is built not only by apostles, but also by those who serve behind the scenes with generosity.

PRAYER: Saint Lydia, woman of faith and welcome, teach us to make space for Christ and His Church in our homes and hearts. Amen. 🙏🏾

BLESSED AUGUSTINE GAZOTICH (1262–1323): A Croatian Dominican bishop, Blessed Augustine was a man of deep intellect and holiness. He served as bishop in both Zagreb and Lucera, promoted the renewal of clergy, cared for the poor, preached with zeal, and defended the faith during turbulent times. He was revered for his learning, charity, and healing ministry. His holiness left a mark far beyond his own time, earning beatification centuries later.

PRAYER: O God, through the intercession of Blessed Augustine, renew in us zeal for truth, compassion for the poor, and fidelity to Your Church. Amen. 🙏🏾

MARTYRS OF THE SPANISH CIVIL WAR (1936–1939): During the Spanish Civil War, over 6,800 clergy and religious were brutally killed for their faith. Among them were the 27 Sisters Adorers, who were executed simply for being faithful servants of Christ. They embraced martyrdom with peace, courage, and love, offering their lives rather than deny their faith. Their martyrdom reminds us of the high cost of discipleship and the victorious power of grace. Their example urges us to stand firm when faith is tested.

PRAYER: Holy Martyrs of Spain, who stood firm in love and truth, intercede for those persecuted today. May we never be ashamed of Christ, even unto death. Amen. 🙏🏾

HONORING THE SAINTS OF THE DAY:
Alongside the Finding of Saint Stephen, Saint Lydia (St. Lydia Purpuraria), Blessed Augustine, the Spanish Martyrs, and the Seven Holy Maccabees, we also honor: SAINT ABIBAS, SAINT ASPREN, SAINT DALMATIUS OF CONSTANTINOPLE, SAINT EUPHRONIUS, SAINT FAUSTUS, SAINT GAMALIEL, SAINT PETER OF ANAGNI, SAINT SENACH, SAINT TREA, AND SAINT WALTHEOF OF MELROSE. May their faithful lives inspire our own journey today.

Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Stephen, Saint Lydia, Blessed Augustine, and the Spanish Martyrs, the Seven Holy Maccabees, and all the Saints we celebrate today ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽

PRAYER INTENTION: FOR BOLD FAITH, HOSPITABLE HEARTS, VOCATIONS, AND PERSECUTED CHRISTIANS

Heavenly Father, You are our refuge and strength, reaching out Your hand to pull us out of life’s deepest storms. Through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Stephen the Protomartyr, Saint Lydia Purpuraria, Blessed Augustine Gazotich, the Martyrs of the Spanish Civil War, the Seven Holy Maccabees, and all the Saints we honor today, we lift our prayers to You. We pray for our Holy Father, the clergy, and all who shepherd Your people. Strengthen all Christians facing active persecution today; grant them the courage of the Spanish Martyrs and Saint Stephen to remain steadfast in faith. Grant us open and hospitable hearts like Saint Lydia to welcome Christ in our neighbors, and inspire rich pastoral zeal like Blessed Augustine to care for the poor and vulnerable. We pray for an increase in holy vocations to the priesthood and religious life, for the conversion of sinners, and for healing upon the sick and dying, especially those suffering from cancer and terminal illnesses. Bless our families with Your peace and unity, and keep us focused on Your Son whenever the winds of life blow against us. Amen. 🙏🏽

PRAYER FOR PEACE | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/a-prayer-for-peace/

THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2026: FOR THE MONTH OF AUGUST: For evangelization in the city. Let us pray that in large cities often marked by anonymity and loneliness, we find new ways to proclaim the Gospel, discovering creative paths to build community.

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

DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF AUGUST | MONTH OF THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY: August is dedicated to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, inviting us to reflect on her pure love, deep sorrow, and unwavering obedience to God. Her heart, aflame with charity and pierced by suffering, mirrors the life of Christ and calls us to follow Him more closely through her example. This month, the Church encourages us to console her sorrowful heart and grow in holiness through prayers like the Rosary, the Litany of the Immaculate Heart, and the First Saturday Devotion. Through Mary’s heart, we are led ever closer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

“O Immaculate Heart of Mary, be our refuge and the way that leads us to God.”

Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us and draw us into deeper love and trust in your Son. Amen. 🙏🏽

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/month.cfm?y=2026&m=8

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 🙏🏽

Thanking God for His love and the gift of this glorious day, we offer Him a prayer of gratitude for the graces of the past months and entrust this month of August to His loving providence. We pray for God’s grace and mercy as we anchor ourselves in the steady, life-giving rhythm of Ordinary Time. May the profound mysteries of the Cross, the cleansing power of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus, and the enduring fire of the Holy Spirit continue to help us seek You in every moment of our lives. May the peace, hope, and divine communion that flow from the Heart of our Redeemer shape our steps, inform our decisions, and strengthen our resolve to live each day in the light of Christ and the daily guidance of the Advocate. As we journey onward through the rest of this month, may God bless our families and loved ones, and may His light continue to shine brightly in every home. Let us draw closer to God and be renewed through the joy of the Gospel, the gifts of the Spirit, and generosity to the poor. May God keep us all safe and well during these challenging times. Wishing us all a spiritually enriching, most blessed, and grace-filled August ahead. Amen. 🙏🏽

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Stephen, Saint Lydia, Blessed Augustine, and the Spanish Martyrs, the Seven Holy Maccabees, and all the Saints we celebrate today ~ 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/

Sir G.L.I Opiepe’s Health and Education Foundation | https://gliopiepehe.org/

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