MEMORIAL OF SAINT GALDINUS, ARCHBISHOP OF MILAN; BLESSED MARY OF THE INCARNATION, RELIGIOUS; SAINT PETER OF SAINT JOSEPH BETANCUR, MISSIONARY AND SAINT APOLLONIUS, MARTYR – FEAST DAY 18TH 2026

SATURDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER | YEAR A | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saturday-of-the-second-week-of-easter-year-a/

SAINTS OF THE DAY | APRIL 18, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-april-18th/

MEMORIAL OF SAINT GALDINUS, ARCHBISHOP OF MILAN; BLESSED MARY OF THE INCARNATION, RELIGIOUS; SAINT PETER OF SAINT JOSEPH BETANCUR, MISSIONARY AND SAINT APOLLONIUS, MARTYR

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

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | April 18, 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-april-18-2026/

LIVE UPDATES: Pope Leo XIV’s Historic Apostolic Journey to Africa | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/live-updates-pope-leo-xivs-historic-apostolic-journey-to-africa/

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/

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Greetings and blessings, beloved family.

Alleluia! It is I. Do not be afraid! Today, Saturday of the Second Week of Easter, in the Gospel, we find the disciples alone on a dark, stormy sea. When the winds blow and the waters rise, Jesus comes to them, walking on the waves, revealing that He is the Master over all creation. His words, “It is I,” are the same divine assurance God gave to Moses, a reminder that when we feel overwhelmed by the storms of life, the Lord is ever-present to bring us safely to our shore. The First Reading shows us the growing pains of the early Church. As the number of disciples increases, so do the challenges of administration and care for the vulnerable. We witness the birth of the Diaconate, as the Apostles appoint seven men of good repute including Saint Stephen, to ensure that no one is neglected. We are joined today by a company of compassionate and courageous witnesses: Saint Galdinus, the Archbishop who rebuilt Milan; Blessed Mary of the Incarnation, the mother of French Carmel; Saint Peter of Saint Joseph Betancur, the “Francis of the Americas”; and Saint Apollonius, the Senator who defended the faith with his life. Like these holy ones, let us place our trust in the Lord’s mercy, for His eyes are upon those who hope in His kindness. Amen. 🙏🏽

BIBLE READINGS FOR TODAY’S HOLY MASS:

Second Week of Easter | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading

Today’s Bible Readings: Saturday of the Second Week of Easter | April 18, 2026
Reading I: Acts 6:1–7
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 33:1–2, 4–5, 18–19
Gospel: John 6:16–21

Gospel Reading ~ John 6:16–21

“They saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they began to be afraid. But he said to them, ‘It is I. Do not be afraid.’”

When it was evening, the disciples of Jesus went down to the sea, embarked in a boat, and went across the sea to Capernaum. It had already grown dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. The sea was stirred up because a strong wind was blowing. When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they began to be afraid. But he said to them, “It is I. Do not be afraid.” They wanted to take him into the boat, but the boat immediately arrived at the shore to which they were heading. 

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS

In the Gospel, we witness a moment of profound vulnerability. The disciples are in the dark, separated from Jesus, and struggling against a strong wind. It is a vivid image of the spiritual dark night we often encounter. However, the miracle of Jesus walking on the sea proves that the obstacles we think are insurmountable are merely a pathway for Him. When Jesus says, “It is I” (literally, ego eimi or “I AM”), He is claiming His divinity. He is the Lord of the storm. Interestingly, once they welcome Him, the boat immediately reaches its destination. This teaches us that when we stop trying to row by our own strength and invite Christ into our circumstances, our journey finds its divine completion.

The First Reading provides a different perspective on storms, the internal conflicts of a growing community. The Hellenists and Hebrews were divided over the care of widows, but the Apostles handled this with spiritual maturity. By instituting the Seven Deacons, they demonstrated that service at the table is a holy task, yet it must not distract from the ministry of the Word and prayer. This reflection calls us to look at the neglect in our own communities or lives. Are we balancing our service with our prayer? When we organize our lives according to God’s wisdom, the word of God continues to spread, and even the most unlikely people like the priests in Jerusalem, become obedient to the faith.

The Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 33) is a song of trust for those facing famine or fear: “Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.” It reminds us that the word of the Lord is upright and all His works are trustworthy. Whether we are facing a physical storm on a sea or a social storm of injustice, the eyes of the Lord are upon those who fear Him. He is the one who delivers us from death and preserves us in times of scarcity.

As we go through this Saturday, let us reflect on the strong winds currently blowing in our lives. Are you afraid because it has grown dark and you feel Jesus has not yet come? Reflect today: Are you trying to row three or four miles on your own, or have you invited the “I AM” into your boat? This is the day to be stouthearted. Trust that the Lord loves justice and right, and that His mercy is the anchor that will bring you safely to the shore of His peace.

Let us pray: Lord Jesus, Master of the Sea and the Storm, come to us in our moments of darkness. When the winds of life stir up fear within us, let us hear Your voice saying, “It is I. Do not be afraid.” Give us the wisdom of the Apostles to serve one another with justice and the Spirit. May we always hope in Your kindness and find our refuge in Your trustworthy Word. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINTS OF THE DAY | APRIL 18TH:

Link to Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections| April 18th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com

Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Galdinus, Blessed Mary of the Incarnation, Saint Peter of Saint Joseph Betancur, and Saint Apollonius | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-april-18th/

SAINT GALDINUS, ARCHBISHOP OF MILAN: Saint Galdinus (1100–1176) was a true shepherd who understood that it is not right to neglect the word of God. After witnessing the destruction of Milan by Barbarossa, he returned to rebuild both the city and the spirit of its people. Like the first Deacons, he was a man of reputable character, caring for those imprisoned for debt and feeding the poor, while never ceasing to preach the Truth. He died in the pulpit, testifying to the Faith until his last breath, showing that those who fear the Lord are preserved even in the midst of famine and conflict.

PRAYER: God, You made Your Bishop Saint Galdinus an outstanding minister of Your Church by his prayer and pastoral zeal. Through his prayers, grant that Your faithful flock may always find pastors after Your heart and salutary pastures where they may dwell in safety. Amen. 🙏🏽

BLESSED MARY OF THE INCARNATION, RELIGIOUS: Blessed Mary (1566–1618), known as the “Mother of Carmel in France,” lived a life of extraordinary trust amidst the strong winds of political upheaval and personal hardship. As a laywoman, she raised a holy family, and as a religious, she sought one thing: to dwell in the house of the Lord. She was a vessel of mercy who distributed alms during famine, ensuring that the widows and the poor were never neglected. She reminds us that when we invite Jesus into our boat, He immediately brings us to the shore of His peace.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, You gave Blessed Mary of the Incarnation heroic strength in the face of adversity and a zeal for the extension of the Carmelite family. May we, Your children, courageously endure every trial and persevere to the end in Your love. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT PETER OF SAINT JOSEPH BETANCUR, MISSIONARY: Known as the Saint Francis of the Americas, Saint Peter (1626–1667) was a Spanish missionary who saw Jesus in the brokenhearted of Guatemala. Like the Seven Deacons chosen for their faith, he dedicated himself to serving at table for African slaves, Native Americans, and the sick. He walked the streets with a heavy cross, a witness to the “I AM” who walks upon the waters of human suffering. He proves that the bounty of the Lord is found whenever we offer our lives to serve the lowliest.

PRAYER: Lord, You inspired Saint Peter of Saint Joseph Betancur with a singular love for the poor and the suffering. Through his intercession, help us to recognize Your face in our brothers and sisters and to serve them with a heart filled with Your Spirit. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINT APOLLONIUS THE APOLOGIST, MARTYR: Saint Apollonius (d. 185) was a Roman Senator who did not prefer the darkness of worldly status but stepped into the Light of Christ. When accused by his own slave, he gave a brilliant defense of the Faith before the Senate, proving that upright is the word of the Lord. He was stouthearted in the face of death, choosing to obey God rather than men. His martyrdom certifies that for those who place their trust in the Lord, death is not an end, but the arrival at the eternal shore.

PRAYER: Lord, hear our prayers on the commemoration of Saint Apollonius. May we be inspired by his eloquent defense of the Faith and his courage in the face of trial, so that we may faithfully serve You in the light of Truth all the days of our lives. Amen. 🙏🏽

Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Galdinus, Blessed Mary of the Incarnation, Saint Peter of Saint Joseph Betancur, and Saint Apollonius — pray for us. 🙏🏽

PRAYER INTENTION: FOR THE SICK, THE POOR, AND AN INCREASE IN FAITH

As we celebrate the Risen Christ who makes all things new, let us bring our petitions to the Father through the intercession of His saints. Lord, we pray for the sick, those suffering from chronic illness, and those struggling with life’s heavy burdens; through the intercession of Blessed Mary of the Incarnation (Patron of those with Hepatitis and the poor), grant them healing of body and spirit. We pray for the poor, the homeless, and those imprisoned by debt or financial hardship; through the prayers of Saint Galdinus (Patron of the poor and those in debt) and Saint Peter of Saint Joseph Betancur (Patron of the homeless, the sick, and the marginalized), provide for their physical needs and stir up the hearts of the community to serve them with justice. Finally, we pray for an increase in faith and for those who must defend the Church in hostile environments; through the merits of Saint Apollonius (Patron of apologists and the defense of the Faith), give us the wisdom to speak the Truth with love and the grace to always trust that You are with us in every storm. 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 APRIL: For Priests Crisis. Let us pray for priests going through moments of crisis in their vocation, that they may find the accompaniment they need and that communities may support them with understanding and prayer.

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

DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF APRIL | MONTH OF HOLY EUCHARIST: April is dedicated to the Holy Eucharist, the greatest gift of Christ to His Church. In the Eucharist, Jesus is truly present Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity offering Himself as the Bread of Life. This month invites us to deepen our love and reverence for the Eucharist, especially during Holy Week and Easter, celebrating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord. The Eucharist was instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper when He said, “Take and eat; this is My Body… Drink from it, all of you, for this is My Blood of the Covenant” (Matthew 26:26-28). In receiving the Eucharist, we are united with Christ and His Church. It is the source of our strength and the culmination of our salvation, as Christ Himself said in John 6:51, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.” As we journey through Lent, we are called to renew our reverence for the Eucharist. During Holy Week, we remember that Christ instituted this sacrament on Holy Thursday, offering us a way to remain in union with Him. Let us take this opportunity to attend Mass regularly, spend time in Eucharistic adoration, and reflect on the mystery of Christ’s presence in the Blessed Sacrament.

In this season of penance and reflection, may our devotion to the Eucharist strengthen our commitment to living as true disciples of Christ, leading us to the joy of Easter and the Resurrection.

O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Lord Jesus, You have given Yourself to us in the Eucharist. May we receive You with reverence and love, and let Your grace transform us always. Amen 🙏🏽

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/month.cfm?y=2026&m=4

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 month and entrust the remainder of April to His loving providence. We pray for God’s grace and mercy as we continue this season of Easter joy. May the Resurrection of Your Son help us to seek You in every moment of our lives. May the peace, hope, and steady guidance that flow from the empty tomb shape our steps, inform our decisions, and strengthen our resolve to live each day in the light of the Risen Christ. As we journey onward into 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 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 Easter Season. Amen. 🙏🏽

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Galdinus, Blessed Mary of the Incarnation, Saint Peter of Saint Joseph Betancur, and Saint Apollonius ~ 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/

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