TUESDAY OF THE TWENTY-FIFTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026

TUESDAY OF THE TWENTY-FIFTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/tuesday-of-the-twenty-fifth-week-in-ordinary-time-september-22-2026/

SAINTS OF THE DAY | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-september-22nd/

MEMORIAL OF SAINT THOMAS OF VILLANOVA, BISHOP OF VALENCIA; SAINT MAURICE AND THE THEBAN LEGION, SOLDIERS AND MARTYRS; SAINT EMMERAMMUS, BISHOP AND SAINT IGNATIUS OF SANTHIA, PRIEST

HISTORY OF THE SAINTS SERIES ON YOUTUBE CHANNEL | https://www.youtube.com/@dailyreflectionswithphilomena

👉🏾 Watch the YouTube Video of St. Thomas of Villanova, St. Maurice and the Theban Legion, St. Emmerammus, and St. Ignatius of Santhia Here | https://youtu.be/Mti6DeKhGJk?si=tdaEs-svw4KXAZeq

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

NOVENA TO SAINT THÉRÈSE OF LISIEUX – THE LITTLE FLOWER: REMINDER – The Novena to Saint Thérèse of Lisieux is scheduled to begin on September 22nd, and end on September 30th in preparation for her Feast day on October 1st. | Link to Novena to Saint Thérèse of Lisieux – The Little Flower | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/novena-to-saint-therese-of-lisieux-the-little-flower/

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | September 22, 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-september-22-2026/

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Greetings and blessings, beloved family!

Today, on the Feast of Saint Thomas of Villanova, Saint Maurice and the Theban Legion, Saint Emmerammus, and Saint Ignatius of Santhia, the Church honors brilliant scholars, fearless soldier-martyrs, and humble friars who poured out their lives for Christ. Today’s Gospel challenges us to live as true members of Christ’s spiritual family by hearing God’s word and putting it into action, while the First Reading from Proverbs reminds us that righteousness, justice, and compassion for the poor are far more pleasing to the Lord than empty sacrifice. Inspired by the extraordinary charity and steadfast witness of today’s saints, let us open our hearts to walk faithfully in His commands.

BIBLE READINGS FOR TODAY’S HOLY MASS:

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

Today’s Bible Readings: Tuesday of the Twenty-fifth Week in Ordinary Time | Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Reading 1: Proverbs 21:1-6, 10-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119:1, 27, 30, 34, 35, 44
Gospel: Luke 8:19-21

Gospel Reading ~ Luke 8:19-21

“My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”

“The mother of Jesus and his brothers came to him but were unable to join him because of the crowd. He was told, ‘Your mother and your brothers are standing outside and they wish to see you.’ He said to them in reply, ‘My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.'”

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS

Today’s readings challenge us to examine the sincerity of our hearts and the depth of our commitment to God’s will. In the Gospel, when Jesus is told that His mother and relatives are waiting outside, He uses the moment to expand our understanding of spiritual family. Pointing to His disciples, He declares that true closeness to Him is not merely a matter of biological ties, but of hearing the word of God and putting it into action. Hearing alone is not enough; the Lord calls us to active, obedient discipleship that translates His word into concrete deeds of love, justice, and mercy.

This call to righteous living and integrity is echoed powerfully in the First Reading from Proverbs, which reminds us that “to do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.” God searches our hearts, warning us against pride, deceit, and turning a deaf ear to the cry of the poor. When we shut our eyes to those in need or rely on empty rituals while ignoring charity, our actions fall short. Instead, as the Responsorial Psalm guides us to pray: “Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.” By choosing the way of truth and delighting in God’s laws, we align our lives with His divine wisdom.

Today, let us reflect on how well we are living out the word we hear. Do our daily actions truly reflect the teachings of Christ, or do we stop at merely listening? How can you better put God’s word into action today, especially toward those in need around you?

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your holy word, which guides our steps and lights our path. Forgive us for the times we hear Your truth but fail to act on it, or when our actions are driven by pride rather than true justice and compassion. Grant us the grace to be true members of Your spiritual family by listening attentively to Your voice and carrying out Your commandments with a blameless and generous heart. Lead us always in the path of Your precepts, that we may bring glory to Your name. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINTS OF THE DAY | SEPTEMBER 22ND:

Direct link to the detailed history of St. Thomas of Villanova, St. Maurice and the Theban Legion, St. Emmerammus, and St. Ignatius of Santhia | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-september-22nd/

SAINT THOMAS OF VILLANOVA, BISHOP OF VALENCIA (1488–1555): St. Thomas of Villanova was a Spanish Augustinian friar and archbishop known for his deep humility, generosity, and pastoral zeal. Born in Castile in 1488, he was raised by devout parents who frequently gave to the poor, instilling in him a lifelong spirit of charity. Intellectually gifted, he studied and later taught philosophy at the University of Alcalá before leaving his academic career to join the Augustinian Order.

Ordained in 1518, Thomas became known as a powerful preacher and spiritual director. Though reluctant to accept positions of honor, he eventually obeyed the Church’s command to serve as Archbishop of Valencia in 1544. True to his vows of poverty, he lived simply, wore a worn habit, and used resources not for himself but for the poor, sick, and prisoners. He repaired hospitals, cared for orphans, and gave his bed to a beggar in need. His preaching drew many back to faith, and his reforms strengthened both clergy and laity. He died in 1555 and was canonized in 1658.

PRAYER: Lord, through the example of St. Thomas of Villanova, inspire us to live in humility, charity, and love for the poor. May we use our gifts for the good of others and seek first Your Kingdom. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT MAURICE AND THE THEBAN LEGION, SOLDIERS AND MARTYRS (3rd century): St. Maurice, an officer in the Roman Theban Legion, and his 6,600 Christian companions gave their lives for Christ when Emperor Maximian ordered them to offer sacrifice to pagan gods. Refusing to compromise their faith, they declared: “We have arms in our hands, but we do not resist because we would rather die innocent than live by sin.” The emperor ordered decimation and eventually the execution of the entire legion at Agaunum (modern-day Saint-Maurice, Switzerland). Their martyrdom became a shining example of Christian courage and fidelity. Miracles were reported at their burial site, and devotion to them spread widely in Europe. St. Maurice and the Theban Legion are honored as patrons of soldiers, armies, and all who endure trials with faith.

PRAYER: Almighty God, through the witness of St. Maurice and the Theban Legion, strengthen us to remain faithful to You in the face of trials. May we never deny You but stand firm in love and courage. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT EMMERAMMUS, BISHOP AND MARTYR (7th century): St. Emmerammus, originally from France, was a missionary bishop who brought the Gospel to Bavaria. Invited by Duke Theodo of Regensburg, he served there for several years with zeal, converting many to the faith. As he prepared for a pilgrimage to Rome, he became the victim of a tragic misunderstanding: falsely accused and cruelly attacked, he suffered greatly before dying around the year 690. The Church honors him as a martyr for Christ, recognizing his endurance in suffering and his missionary zeal. His relics rest in Regensburg, where devotion to him continues.

PRAYER: Lord, through the intercession of St. Emmerammus, give us courage to bear trials patiently and to proclaim the Gospel with steadfast faith. May his witness inspire us to trust in You, even in suffering. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT IGNATIUS OF SANTHIA, PRIEST (1686–1770): St. Ignatius of Santhia was born in Italy into a noble family. After serving as a diocesan priest for six years, he surprised many by joining the Capuchin Franciscans, embracing poverty and humility. As a friar, he became a beloved confessor, spiritual director, and retreat preacher, known for his wisdom, gentleness, and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Despite poor health later in life, he continued to guide souls from his sickbed, hearing confessions and offering counsel. His holiness drew many to seek God more fervently. He died in 1770 and remains a model of simplicity, devotion, and spiritual fatherhood.

PRAYER: O God, You raised up St. Ignatius of Santhia as a humble guide of souls. Grant that through his intercession, we may walk in simplicity, seek Your will with love, and grow in holiness day by day. Amen. 🙏🏾

Our Blessed Mother Mary, St. Thomas of Villanova, St. Maurice and the Theban Legion, St. Emmerammus, and St. Ignatius of Santhia ~ Pray for us 🙏🏾

HONORING THE SAINTS OF THE DAY:
Alongside St. Thomas of Villanova, St. Maurice (Martyrs of the Theban Legion) and the Theban Legion, St. Emmerammus (St. Emmeramus), and St. Ignatius of Santhia, we also honor: BLESSED CARMELO SASTRE SASTRE, SAINTS DIGNA & EMERITA, SAINTS FELIX AND CONSTANTIA, SAINT FLORENTIUS, SAINT JONAS, SAINT LAUTO, SAINT LIOBA, SAINT LOLANUS, BLESSED MARTYRS OF THE SPANISH CIVIL WAR, SAINT PHOCAS THE GARDENER (SAINT PHOCAS OF SINOPE), SAINT SALABERGA, AND SAINT SANCTINUS. May their faithful lives inspire our own journey today.

PRAYER INTENTION: FOR ACTIVE OBEDIENCE TO GOD’S WORD AND HEARTS OPEN TO THE POOR

Heavenly Father, You enriched Your Church with the heroic charity of Saint Thomas of Villanova, the unwavering courage of Saint Maurice and his legionnaires, the missionary zeal of Saint Emmerammus, and the humble devotion of Saint Ignatius of Santhia. Through their intercession, grant us the grace not only to hear Your holy word but to put it into action through genuine deeds of justice, mercy, and love. Forgive us for the times our actions are driven by pride or indifference, and open our eyes to the cries of the poor and needy around us. Guide our steps in the path of Your commandments, that we may be numbered among the true spiritual family of Your Son. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary, St. Thomas of Villanova, St. Maurice and the Theban Legion, St. Emmerammus, St. Ignatius of Santhia, and all the Saints we celebrate today ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏾

THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2026: FOR THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER: For the care of water. Let us pray for a just and sustainable management of water, a vital resource, so that everyone may have equal access to it.

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

DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER | MONTH OF OUR LADY OF SORROWS: September is dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows, inviting us to unite our hearts with Mary in her profound sharing of Christ’s Passion. As Simeon foretold, “a sword will pierce your own soul too” (Luke 2:35), and throughout her life Mary endured deep sorrows that culminated at Calvary. In her silent strength and unwavering faith, she became the compassionate Mother of all Christians, offering her suffering with Christ for the salvation of the world.

This month, the Church calls us to meditate on the Seven Sorrows of Mary: Simeon’s prophecy, the Flight into Egypt, the loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple, meeting Jesus on the way to Calvary, standing at the foot of the Cross, receiving His lifeless Body, and placing Him in the tomb. By reflecting on these sorrows, we learn patience in trials, compassion for the suffering, and a deeper love for Jesus who suffered for us.

Prayers such as the Chaplet of the Seven Sorrows, the Rosary of Our Lady of Sorrows, and the Litany of Our Lady of Sorrows help us to walk with Mary in her suffering and to discover hope and consolation in her maternal heart.

“Most Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, teach us to stand with you at the Cross, sharing in Christ’s love and redemptive sacrifice.”

Our Lady of Sorrows, pray for us. Amen 🙏🏾

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/month.cfm?y=2026&m=9

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 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/

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

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