SOLEMNITY OF THE ASCENSION OF OUR LORD (YEAR C ): ASCENSION THURSDAY
[Please note: Some dioceses celebrate the Ascension today. While in some dioceses the Ascension is transferred to the Seventh Sunday of Easter]
THURSDAY OF THE SIXTH WEEK OF EASTER
SAINTS OF THE DAY ~ FEAST DAY: MAY 29, 2025
MEMORIAL OF SAINT PAUL VI, POPE; SAINT MAXIMINUS OF TRIER, BISHOP; SAINT URSULA (GIULIA) LEDÓCHOWSKA AND SAINT BONA OF PISA, RELIGIOUS | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/saints-of-the-day
(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Paul VI, Saint Maximinus of Trier, Saint Ursula Ledóchowska, and Saint Bona of Pisa, Religious| https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-may-29th/)
NOVENA TO THE HOLY SPIRIT: Prayed in preparation for Pentecost. Beginning tomorrow, Friday, May 30, 2025 (link below): Novena to the Holy Spirit for the Seven Gifts | EWTN | The novena – May 30- June 7, 2025 | https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/devotions/novena-to-the-holy-spirit-for-the-seven-gifts-309
[This Novena begins on the day after the Solemnity of the Ascension, Friday of the 6th Week of Easter, even if the Solemnity of the Ascension is transferred to the 7th Sunday.]
Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | May 29, 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-86/
Greetings beloved family and Happy Feast of Ascension of Our Lord Jesus Christ!
We thank God for the gift of life and particularly pray for all those who celebrate their birthdays in the month of May. We also pray for all those graduating during this season. May the good Lord bless and favor them, direct their path and grant them good health of body and mind. Amen 🙏🏽
May this week be filled with peace, joy, and the renewed hope that comes from Christ’s Resurrection. 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 Easter🙏🏽
The entire month of May is dedicated to our beloved Mother Mary, the Mother of God. As we continue to rejoice in the victory of Christ’s Resurrection, we give heartfelt thanks to God for the gift of life and for bringing us safely into the month of May. May this Easter season renew our strength, deepen our faith, and fill our hearts with the peace of the Risen Lord. May our Mother Mary continue to intercede for us and may God’s grace and mercy be with us all during this season of Easter. Wishing us all and our loved ones a joyful, safe and blessed month. Amen 🙏🏽
A PRAYER FOR OUR HOLY FATHER, POPE LEO XIV
Almighty God, we thank You for the gift of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. Grant him wisdom, courage, and humility as he leads the Church in truth and love. May the Holy Spirit guide his every word and action, and may he be a bridge of unity for all nations. Through the intercession of Mary, Queen of Peace, strengthen him in his mission to proclaim Christ to the world. Amen 🙏🏽
Heavenly Father, You have raised Your servant, Pope Leo XIV, to the Chair of Saint Peter. Pour out Your abundant blessings upon him. Through him, guide Your pilgrim Church along the path to Heaven. Grant him wisdom to discern Your will, Courage to fulfill it, And charity to shepherd Your people with the Heart of Christ. In this time of transition, Bring peace to troubled hearts, Joy to those who suffer, And hope to the despairing. May he be a faithful successor to Peter, A humble servant of Your Word, And a fearless herald of Your Divine Mercy and Truth. Strengthen him with the grace of the Holy Spirit, That he may lead the Church in unity, holiness, and fidelity. We entrust him to the maternal care of the Blessed Virgin Mary, And to the prayers of all the saints. Through Christ our Lord. Amen 🙏🏽
We thank God for the successful celebration of the Inauguration Holy Mass for Pope Leo XIV. May the Holy Spirit guide him as he shepherds the faithful, and may his pontificate be a source of renewal and unity for the Church. Amen 🙏🏽
MEET THE NEW POPE: Pope Leo XIV | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/live-from-st-peters-square-white-smoke-habemus-papam/
Daily Reflections with Philomena | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
PRAYER FOR THE SOUL OF POPE FRANCIS: With the passing of Pope Francis, let us continue to pray for the eternal repose of his soul. Merciful and loving God, We entrust to You our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis. May he rest in the light of Your presence, where suffering and sorrow are no more, and every tear is wiped away. Comfort all who mourn his passing and raise up shepherds who will continue to guide Your Church in humility and love.
Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May his gentle soul and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽
Daily Reflections with Philomena | Prayer for the Soul of Pope Francis | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/precious-in-the-sight-of-the-lord-is-the-death-of-his-saints-psalm-11615/
On this special feast day, as we continue to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, with special intention through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Saints, particularly Saint Joseph, Patron of the sick and dying, we pray for the sick and dying and all those who mourn the loss of their loved ones. We pray for our loved ones who have recently died, especially for our Holy Father, POPE FRANCIS, all those who died today, and 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 and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen 🙏🏽 ✝️🕯✝️🕯✝️🕯
“Blessed are those who have died in the Lord; let them rest from their labors for their good deeds go with them.” ~ Rev 14:13
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 and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen 🙏🏽
As we continue walking in the light of Christ, today we honor four holy men and women whose lives shone brightly with faith, courage, and charity. We remember Saint Paul VI, Pope (Patron of dialogue and peace), who faithfully shepherded the Church through the Second Vatican Council and deepened its mission in the modern world. We also commemorate Saint Maximinus of Trier (Patron against perjury and destructive storms), a bold bishop and defender of Christ’s divinity amid fierce heresies; Saint Ursula (Giulia) Ledóchowska (Patroness of orphans and the Ursuline Sisters of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus), a missionary nun of mercy and service to the poor; and Saint Bona of Pisa (Patroness of travelers and flight attendants), a visionary and tireless pilgrim who led others on holy journeys. Through their powerful intercession and that of our Blessed Mother, Mary, Mother of the Church, we lift up the sick and the suffering especially those battling terminal illness. We pray for the poor, the lonely, and those in spiritual need. May peace, healing, and faith abound in our hearts, our families, and our world. We also remember the Church and her clergy, persecuted Christians, and the conversion of souls around the world. Amen. 🙏🏽
DAILY REFLECTIONS WITH PHILOMENA | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
Daily Saints, Holy Mass, Holy Rosary, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Scripture Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/category/reflections/
Watch “HOLY MASS ON THE JUBILEE OF THE SICK AND HEALTHCARE WORKERS | Presided by H.E. Most Rev. Rino Fisichella | Live from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican | April 6, 2025” | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/04/06/holy-mass-on-the-jubilee-of-the-sick-and-healthcare-workers/
THE LITURGICAL YEAR IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2024/12/03/the-liturgical-year-in-the-catholic-church/
(https://popesprayerusa.net/popes-intentions/)
Pray “Holy Rosary for Peace with Pope Francis” | “The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song”| “Holy Rosary ALL 20 Mysteries | Memorare Chaplet | Prayer in Difficult Times (Powerful Prayer) | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/2025/01/30/holy-rosary-for-peace-with-pope-francis/
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/
PRAYER FOR PEACE ~ POPE FRANCIS:
Lord God of peace, hear our prayer!
A PRAYER FOR PEACE : Lord Jesus Christ, You are the true King of peace. In You alone is found freedom. Please free our world from conflict. Bring unity to troubled nations. Let Your glorious peace reign in every heart. Dispel all darkness and evil. Protect the dignity of every human life. Replace hatred with Your love. Give wisdom to world leaders. Free them from selfish ambition. Eliminate all violence and war. Glorious Virgin Mary, Saint Michael the Archangel, Every Angel and Saint: Please pray for peace. Pray for unity amongst nations. Pray for unity amongst all people. Pray for the most vulnerable. Pray for those suffering. Pray for the fearful. Pray for those most in need. Pray for us all. Jesus, Son of the Living God, have mercy on us. Jesus, hear our prayers. Jesus, I trust in You! Amen 🙏🏽
Prayers for Peace | https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/prayers-for-peace/
SOLEMNITY OF THE ASCENSION OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST (ASCENSION THURSDAY): The Solemnity of the Ascension of Our Lord is celebrated on the 40th day after Easter Sunday, also called Ascension Thursday. It is a Holy Day of Obligation, and among the oldest and most solemn feasts on the liturgical calendar. The Feast of the Ascension commemorates the Ascension of Christ into heaven, according to Mark 16:19, Luke 24:51, and Acts 1:2. On this feast day, we remember the Ascension of Our Lord Jesus Christ into Heaven to the ‘right hand of the Father’. This feast day is important to Christians as the ascension shows that Jesus not only overcame death but that He will live forever. It falls ten days from the end of the Eastertide period, a period which is joyous in tone as Christians celebrate the “glorious risen Christ”. After Jesus’ Resurrection from the dead, He continued to appear to His disciples for a period of 40 days. After this time, with His Apostles gathered around Him on the Mount of Olives, Jesus was taken up bodily into heaven, as recorded in the Gospels. To comfort them in His physical absence, He promised to send them a Consoler and Advocate, the Holy Spirit, to be with them and to guide them into all truth until the end of the world.
In the Eastern Church this feast was known as analepsis, “the taking up”, and also as the episozomene, the salvation, denoting that by ascending into His glory, Christ completed the work of our redemption. The terms used in the West, ascensio and, occasionally, ascensa, signify that Christ was raised up by His own powers. Tradition designates Mount Olivet near Bethany as the place where Christ left the earth. The feast falls on Thursday. It is one of the Ecumenical feasts ranking with the feasts of the Passion, of Easter and of Pentecost among the most solemn in the calendar. The feast has a vigil and, since the fifteenth century, an octave which is set apart for a novena of preparation for Pentecost, in accordance with the directions of Leo XIII.
Traditionally the Ascension of Our Lord was held 40 days after Easter, falling on a Thursday. In the United States, the ecclesiastical provinces of Boston, Hartford, New York, Newark, Omaha, and Philadelphia have retained the celebration of the Solemnity of the Ascension on the proper Thursday. However in most dioceses in the United States and in many dioceses in the world the observance of the Solemnity of the Ascension is transferred to the following Sunday, this year it’s celebrated on June 1, 2025 superseding the 7th Sunday of Easter.
Save Us, Savior of the World 🙏🏽
SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS:
Please note: There are two reflections today: For those dioceses that celebrate the Ascension today (Refer to Sunday Scripture Reflections ~ The Ascension of the Lord | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/052925-Ascension.cfm
Scripture Reflections for Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter is used in those dioceses where the Ascension is transferred to the Seventh Sunday of Easter (Refer to today’s Scripture Reflections ~ Bible Readings for today’s Holy Mass, Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter | USCCB | https://bible.usccb.org/daily-bible-reading
Today’s Bible Readings: Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord | Thursday, May 29, 2025
Reading 1: Acts 1:1–11
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 47:2–3, 6–7, 8–9
Reading 2: Ephesians 1:17–23 or Hebrews 9:24–28; 10:19–23
Gospel: Luke 24:46–53
Gospel Reading ~ Luke 24:46–53
(The Ascension of the Lord)
“As He blessed them He parted from them and was taken up to heaven”
“Jesus said to His disciples: “Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day and that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And behold I am sending the promise of my Father upon you; but stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.” Then he led them out as far as Bethany, raised his hands, and blessed them. As he blessed them he parted from them and was taken up to heaven. They did him homage and then returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and they were continually in the temple praising God.”
On this Solemnity of the Ascension, we commemorate the glorious moment when Christ, having completed His earthly mission, ascended into heaven, returning to the Father in divine majesty. But this feast is not one of absence it is one of promise. Jesus’ physical departure is not a goodbye, but a commissioning. “You are witnesses of these things,” He tells the disciples. His Ascension is the crowning moment of the Paschal Mystery and the beginning of the Church’s mission in the world. From now on, the Gospel is entrusted to His followers you and me to be proclaimed in every nation and to every heart. Yet He does not leave us orphaned. The promise of the Holy Spirit “power from on high” remains His enduring gift.
The scene is rich with paradox: as Jesus is taken from their sight, the disciples are not left in sorrow but return to Jerusalem with great joy. Why joy? Because they now understand that Christ’s mission is expanding not ending. The same hands that healed, blessed, and were nailed to the cross are raised in benediction as He ascends, assuring them that His presence will endure in a new and powerful way. The Ascension is not a moment of loss but of deepened faith and a call to witness.
In the First Reading from Acts, St. Luke gives us a beautiful account of the Ascension as a transition from Christ’s visible presence to His spiritual reign. Before being lifted up, Jesus commands the apostles to remain in Jerusalem and wait for the Father’s promise the Holy Spirit. He reminds them that the power they will receive is not for personal glory but for mission: “You will be my witnesses… to the ends of the earth.” The image of the apostles gazing at the sky, stunned, is profoundly human and into that moment step two heavenly messengers who redirect their focus: “Why are you standing there looking at the sky?” In other words: your mission is here, now. Look not only upward, but outward. Heaven awaits, but earth still needs witnesses.
Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, the Psalm resounds with royal joy and triumph: “God mounts his throne to shouts of joy: a blare of trumpets for the Lord.” This image of divine enthronement echoes the Ascension’s glory. God reigns not from a distant place but in the midst of His people, exalted in majesty yet near to us in love. Every shout, every trumpet, every hymn of praise in this psalm mirrors the jubilation of the disciples, and it invites us to celebrate our King who now reigns in heaven, interceding for us and preparing a place for us.
In the Second Reading, whether we hear from Paul’s letter to the Ephesians or the Letter to the Hebrews, we are reminded of the heavenly reality of Christ’s ascension. Paul speaks of “the surpassing greatness of his power” and Christ being seated at God’s right hand “far above every principality, authority, power, and dominion.” The letter to the Hebrews assures us that Jesus, our great High Priest, has entered not a man-made sanctuary, but heaven itself, to appear before God on our behalf. He is our advocate, our intercessor, our eternal hope.
As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures today, we ask: Are we living as witnesses to the risen and ascended Christ? Are we looking up to heaven in hope, or have we gotten lost in staring without acting? Like the disciples, we are not to stay in the clouds of wonder but to bring the message of salvation to earth. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace as we live the joy of the Resurrection and carry the mission of the Ascension knowing Christ is with us always, until the end of time.
Lord Jesus, as You ascended into heaven, You lifted our hearts with You. Grant us the courage to be Your faithful witnesses on earth, empowered by the Holy Spirit and filled with the joy of Your presence. Reign in our hearts as King, and guide us always toward our heavenly home. Amen. 🙏🏽
Today’s Bible Readings: Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter | May 29, 2025
Reading 1: Acts 18:1–8
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 98:1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4
Gospel: John 16:16–20
Gospel Reading ~ John 16:16–20
“You will grieve, but your grief will become joy”
Jesus said to his disciples: “A little while and you will no longer see me, and again a little while later and you will see me.” So some of his disciples said to one another, “What does this mean that he is saying to us, ‘A little while and you will not see me, and again a little while and you will see me,’ and ‘Because I am going to the Father’?” So they said, “What is this ‘little while’ of which he speaks? We do not know what he means.” Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him, so he said to them, “Are you discussing with one another what I said, ‘A little while and you will not see me, and again a little while and you will see me’? Amen, amen, I say to you, you will weep and mourn, while the world rejoices; you will grieve, but your grief will become joy.”
In today’s Gospel, Jesus prepares His disciples for a time of absence and uncertainty. He tells them, “A little while and you will not see me; again a little while and you will see me.” This statement puzzles them because they don’t fully understand what He means by “a little while.” Jesus acknowledges the confusion but assures them that although they will experience grief and mourning, their sorrow will transform into joy. This promise of joy amidst suffering reflects the resurrection hope that underpins the Easter season. Jesus invites His followers to trust in His timing and divine plan, even when it feels like a moment of loss or abandonment. Their grief is temporary because it will give way to the joy of seeing Him again, a joy that surpasses worldly happiness and stems from the deep communion with the Father. This reading reminds us that Christian life often involves seasons of waiting and uncertainty, but with faith, we hold onto the promise that God’s presence will return in joy and renewal.
The First Reading recounts Paul’s arrival in Corinth, where he meets Aquila and Priscilla, fellow tentmakers and believers. Paul immediately begins preaching in the synagogue, faithfully witnessing to Jesus as the Christ despite opposition. When rejected by some Jews, Paul boldly declares he will now turn to the Gentiles, illustrating the expanding mission of the Church beyond Israel. This passage highlights perseverance in faith and mission even in the face of rejection. Paul’s example challenges us to be courageous witnesses of Christ in our own lives. Like Paul, we may encounter resistance or feel discouraged, but God calls us to remain steadfast and trust that He is working through our efforts. The story of Crispus and many Corinthians embracing faith shows the power of faithful witness to transform lives and communities.
Reflecting on the Responsorial Psalm, the Psalm calls all creation to sing a new song of praise to the Lord, who has revealed His saving power to the nations. The imagery of God’s “right hand” and “holy arm” victorious reminds us of His mighty acts of salvation that reach beyond Israel to all peoples. As followers of Christ, we are invited to join in this universal song of joy and thanksgiving. The Psalm reassures us that God’s kindness and faithfulness endure forever. Even when we face difficulties, we are called to sing joyfully, trusting that God’s saving work is always at hand and that His justice and mercy extend to the whole world. How do I respond to moments of loss or uncertainty in my life? Am I open to God’s timing and trust in His promise of joy after grief? Like Paul, am I willing to witness boldly to my faith, even when met with opposition? How do I participate in God’s saving work in my community and beyond? Let us live today with patience and hope, trusting that God’s timing is perfect. In every trial, let us remember that sorrow will give way to joy, and our faithfulness in small moments of witness can bring others closer to Christ. May we be courageous in proclaiming the Gospel and joyful in the salvation God reveals to all nations.
As we reflect on the words of the Sacred Scriptures on this great Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord, marking the moment when the Lord Jesus Christ, forty days after His glorious Resurrection from the dead, ascended in glory to His heavenly Throne. The Lord Jesus ascended in glory by His own power, leaving behind this world but not abandoning His disciples and followers. He ascended to prepare for us all our places by His side in Heaven, to welcome us all in the end of time, to prove to us that we all truly have something to look forward to in our faithful and dedicated life. Through His Ascension, He returned triumphantly and gloriously to where He had come from, the Throne of God as the only begotten Son of God and the Divine Word Incarnate, and to prepare a place for all of us, His disciples and followers in the world that is to come. Let us all therefore realise well that we are all called to continue the good works that the Lord had begun with His Apostles and our holy predecessors. There are indeed still many opportunities and chances presented to us in our world today, with its unique challenges and difficulties, and with many are still lost to the Lord, or having forgotten His love and truth, in their pursuit of worldly glory, ambition and pleasures. It is up to us then to make good use of the blessings, talents and opportunities that God has given to us so that we may continue to be good role models and inspirations for one another, at all times. Through our lives and examples, we may indeed be the shining beacons of God’s light and truth, proclaiming His Good News to all the people around us and beyond. May the Risen Lord Who had ascended in glory into Heaven, as He takes up His Throne, continue to be with us all His Church, and continue to guide and strengthen us all in our path. May He continue to empower each and every one of us with the strength and courage to see things through and to persevere despite the many challenges and trials that we may have to encounter and endure in our respective paths in life and in our respective vocations and ministries. May the Lord, ascended in glory onto His Throne in Heaven, most excellent and almighty, continue to guide us all His Church and all of us His beloved ones, in our path and way of life so that we may truly be the inspirational and worthy beacons of His light, truth and love. May God in His infinite grace and mercy, grant us His grace and be with us always and may all of us continue to strive to be faithful in all things, and do our best to be good role models and inspiration as the missionaries and disciples of our Lord in our world today, ever inspired, strengthened and guided by the Holy Spirit. Amen 🙏🏽
Lord Jesus, in times of waiting and sorrow, help me to trust Your promise that my grief will turn to joy. Strengthen my faith to persevere in sharing Your love, even when faced with challenges. May Your Spirit guide me to sing new songs of praise and witness to Your saving power every day. Amen. 🙏🏽
MEMORIAL OF SAINT PAUL VI, POPE; SAINT MAXIMINUS OF TRIER, BISHOP; SAINT URSULA (GIULIA) LEDÓCHOWSKA AND SAINT BONA OF PISA, RELIGIOUS ~ FEAST DAY: MAY 29TH: As we continue walking in the light of Christ, today we honor four holy men and women whose lives shone brightly with faith, courage, and charity. We remember Saint Paul VI, Pope (Patron of dialogue and peace), who faithfully shepherded the Church through the Second Vatican Council and deepened its mission in the modern world. We also commemorate Saint Maximinus of Trier (Patron against perjury and destructive storms), a bold bishop and defender of Christ’s divinity amid fierce heresies; Saint Ursula (Giulia) Ledóchowska (Patroness of orphans and the Ursuline Sisters of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus), a missionary nun of mercy and service to the poor; and Saint Bona of Pisa (Patroness of travelers and flight attendants), a visionary and tireless pilgrim who led others on holy journeys. Through their powerful intercession and that of our Blessed Mother, Mary, Mother of the Church, we lift up the sick and the suffering especially those battling terminal illness. We pray for the poor, the lonely, and those in spiritual need. May peace, healing, and faith abound in our hearts, our families, and our world. We also remember the Church and her clergy, persecuted Christians, and the conversion of souls around the world. Amen. 🙏🏽
Saint(s) of the Day with Daily Reflections | May 29th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/
(Direct link to the detailed history of Saint Paul VI, Saint Maximinus of Trier, Saint Ursula Ledóchowska, and Saint Bona of Pisa, Religious | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-may-29th/ )
SAINT PAUL VI, POPE: Giovanni Battista Montini, born September 26, 1897, in Concesio, Italy, became Pope Paul VI on June 21, 1963, following the death of Pope John XXIII. Known for his humility, intellect, and courage, Paul VI guided the Church through the conclusion of the Second Vatican Council and oversaw its challenging implementation in a rapidly changing world. As Archbishop of Milan, he was called the “Archbishop of the Workers,” showing great concern for social issues, labor, and Catholic education. He wrote extensively on evangelization, ecumenism, and human life, notably the encyclical Humanae Vitae. His papacy was marked by pastoral sensitivity and a prophetic voice that spoke both truth and compassion. He died on August 6, 1978, and was canonized in 2018.
PRAYER: Saint Paul VI, Pope and shepherd of the universal Church, who courageously led the Church through the transformative years of the Second Vatican Council, calling us to holiness and dialogue with the modern world.
Saint Paul VI, Pope ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
SAINT MAXIMINUS OF TRIER, BISHOP: Born in present-day France, Saint Maximinus became Bishop of Trier around 332 AD. As a fierce defender of the faith, he stood alongside Saint Athanasius in combating the Arian heresy, offering him protection during exile. Maximinus’s courage earned him a reputation as one of the most valiant bishops of his time. He led synods, confronted heresies, and protected the truth of Christ’s divinity at great personal cost. Saint Jerome praised him as a noble, fearless, and miracle-working pastor. Though his writings are lost, his legacy remains as a model of episcopal zeal and orthodoxy. He died around the year 346.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, through the bold witness of Saint Maximinus, may we remain steadfast in truth and unwavering in charity. Grant us the courage to defend our faith and trust in Your protection always. Amen. 🙏🏽
SAINT URSULA (GIULIA) LEDÓCHOWSKA, RELIGIOUS: Born in 1865 into the noble and deeply devout Ledóchowski family of Austria, Saint Ursula Ledóchowska entered religious life and founded the Congregation of the Ursulines of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus (Gray Ursulines). A tireless missionary, she served in Russia, Finland, and Scandinavia—evangelizing and educating in times of turmoil. Known for her love of the poor, her outreach spanned orphanages, schools, and homes for the suffering. At her canonization in 2003, Pope John Paul II declared that her life “was a mission of mercy for the most deprived.” She died on May 29, 1939, and her incorrupt body rests in Pniewy, Poland.
PRAYER: Saint Ursula (Giulia) Ledóchowska, tireless educator and foundress whose mission of mercy brought hope to the poor, the youth, and the sick;
Saint Ursula Ledóchowska ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
SAINT BONA OF PISA, RELIGIOUS: Born in Pisa, Italy, in 1156, Saint Bona experienced visions of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and Saint James as a child. At just 14, she began pilgrimages to the Holy Land, enduring great hardships including capture and injury. She became a Third Order Augustinian and was appointed an official guide for pilgrims traveling the Way of Saint James (Camino de Santiago). She completed this long pilgrimage nine times often leading large groups and made a tenth journey before falling ill and dying in 1207. Her adventurous and faithful spirit inspires all who seek God in life’s journeys.
PRAYER: and Saint Bona of Pisa, devoted pilgrim and patron of travelers, who embraced hardship with faith and led many safely along the Way of St. James.
Saint Bona of Pisa, Religious ~ Pray for us 🙏🏽
Holy Saints of God whom we honor today, faithful servants of the Lord in times of challenge, heresy, poverty, and pilgrimage intercede for us. Strengthen us with courage like Saint Maximinus, wisdom like Saint Paul VI, compassion like Saint Ursula, and perseverance like Saint Bona. May your examples lead us closer to Christ and inspire us to live with faith, hope, and love. Amen. 🙏🏽
Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Paul VI, Saint Maximinus of Trier, Saint Ursula Ledóchowska, and Saint Bona of Pisa, Religious~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
THE HOLY FATHER, POPE FRANCIS’ MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2025: FOR THE MONTH OF MAY: For Working Conditions ~ Let us pray that through work, each person might find fulfilment, families might be sustained in dignity, and that society might be humanized.
PRAYER FOR THE MONTH OF MAY ~ POPE FRANCIS: For Working Conditions ~ Jesus, You knew work in this world, and You understand its hardships and joys… Hear our prayer today. Working is a human trait… Work is sacred… The beauty of the earth and the dignity of work were meant to be united… The earth becomes beautiful when man works… Lord, You see that we believe this with conviction, but we desire even more for it to become a reality among us.
We are saddened when people can’t find work and lack the dignity of bringing bread to their home. Give us the light of your Spirit, open our hearts, do not let indifference overcome us.
Help us recover the gift of universal brotherhood. We ask for a heart as big as Jesus’s so we can embrace the call to work to give dignity to people and families.
Amen 🙏🏽
(https://popesprayerusa.net/popes-intentions/)
DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF MAY | MONTH OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY: May is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God and our spiritual Mother. This month invites the faithful to draw closer to Mary through prayer, reflection, and imitation of her virtues especially her humility, obedience, purity, and unwavering faith. As the first and most perfect disciple of Christ, Mary leads us gently but firmly to her Son. Throughout Church history, May has been a time to honor Mary with special devotions such as the Rosary, May Crownings, Marian processions, and prayers like the Litany of Loreto. The Church teaches that Mary, assumed body and soul into Heaven, intercedes for us as Queen of Heaven and Mother of the Church. During this month, we are called to renew our relationship with her and seek her maternal care in our joys, sorrows, and needs. Mary said “yes” to God’s plan with total trust: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). Her faithful surrender encourages us to say “yes” to God’s will in our own lives. As we meditate on the mysteries of the Rosary and contemplate her role in salvation history, we grow in our love for her and our desire to follow Christ more closely.
In this beautiful month of blooming flowers, may our hearts also blossom with deeper devotion to the Mother of our Savior. Let us bring her our prayers, our homes, and our lives, asking her to accompany us with her love and protection.
“O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.”
Hail Mary, full of grace! Teach us to love Jesus as you loved Him. Cover us with your mantle of mercy, and help us to walk always in the light of your Son. Amen 🙏🏽
https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?recnum=12540
PRAYER INTENTIONS: As we celebrate the glorious Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ, we lift up our hearts in prayer for the Church and the world. We pray for the Church, that she may be renewed in zeal and joy, boldly proclaiming the Gospel to every corner of the earth, just as the apostles were sent forth after witnessing the Ascension. We remember our Holy Father and all bishops, that through the example of Saint Paul VI and Saint Maximinus of Trier, they may shepherd the faithful with wisdom, courage, and humility. Inspired by Saint Ursula Ledóchowska and Saint Bona of Pisa, we pray for all religious women and missionaries, that their lives of sacrifice may continue to inspire holiness in others. We entrust to God all travelers and pilgrims, seeking the intercession of Saint Bona, the patroness of travelers, for their safety and peace. We pray for the poor, the sick, the elderly, and all those who feel abandoned, that they may be lifted by the hope of Christ’s return and the love of those around them. And for those who are burdened by doubt, fear, or discouragement, may the promise of the Holy Spirit and the glory of the Ascended Christ bring them light, comfort, and renewed strength.
LET US PRAY
My ascended Lord, as You entered body and soul into the full and glorious presence of Your Father, You handed on to your disciples the duty of completing Your mission on earth. I hear Your call in my life, dear Lord, and commit myself to the glorious task of continuing that mission on earth. Please use me as You will and fill me with power from on high so that I may help share Your saving Word to the ends of the earth. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen 🙏🏽
Lord Jesus Christ, You ascended to the right hand of the Father to intercede for us and to prepare a place for Your faithful. As we rejoice in Your glory, help us to keep our eyes fixed on Heaven while our hearts remain rooted in love and service here on earth. Through the intercession of Saint Paul VI, Saint Maximinus, Saint Ursula, and Saint Bona, grant us the grace to witness boldly, serve humbly, and endure faithfully. Strengthen Your Church in holiness, unite Your people in peace, and pour out Your Spirit upon us as we await Your return in glory. Amen. 🙏🏽
We make this prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽
Save us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saint Paul VI, Saint Maximinus of Trier, Saint Ursula Ledóchowska, and Saint Bona of Pisa, Religious ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽
Thanking God for the precious gift of this new day, for the gift of our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV and the immeasurable love shown through His Son, our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. As we continue to rejoice in the glory of the Resurrection, may our hearts remain open to the peace and hope that flow from His victory over sin and death. During this joyful Easter season, we pray that our loving Savior will deepen our faith and draw us closer to the mystery of His Passion, death, and Resurrection. May we walk in the light of His risen life, renewed in spirit and overflowing with grace. Praying for us all and our loved ones today and we pray for journey mercies for all those traveling during this Easter season. As we embrace the blessings of this new month, may God’s abundant grace continue to shower upon us, filling our hearts with peace, joy, and hope in His Resurrection. May this Ascension Thursday be filled with blessings, safety, and the quiet joy that comes from knowing that Christ is truly risen! Alleluia! Have a blessed, safe, and grace-filled Ascension Thursday and joyful Sixth Week of Easter🙏🏽
