WEDNESDAY OF THE SEVENTEENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME | YEAR A | JULY 29, 2026

WEDNESDAY OF THE SEVENTEENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME | YEAR A | JULY 29, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/wednesday-of-the-seventeenth-week-in-ordinary-time-year-a-july-29-2026/

SAINTS OF THE DAY | JULY 29, 2026 | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-july-29th/

MEMORIAL OF SAINTS MARTHA, MARY AND LAZARUS; SAINT FELIX II, POPE; SAINTS SIMPLICIUS, FAUSTINUS AND BEATRICE, MARTYRS

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

Watch “Holy Mass and Holy Rosary | EWTN | July 29, 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-july-29-2026/

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, the Church celebrates the Memorial of Saints Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, together with Saint Felix II, Pope and Confessor, and Saints Simplicius, Faustinus, and Beatrice, Martyrs. Today’s liturgy calls us to anchor our lives in Jesus as “the resurrection and the life,” balancing active service with contemplative listening, and trusting Him completely in times of distress. This wholehearted faith shines through today’s saints, in the Bethany siblings, who offered Christ deep friendship, hospitality, and unwavering trust; in Pope Saint Felix II, who persevered through Church divisions; and in the brave siblings Simplicius, Faustinus, and Beatrice, who gave their lives for Christ in Rome. May we welcome the Lord into our daily lives today and find our refuge in Him.

BIBLE READINGS FOR TODAY’S HOLY MASS:

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

Today’s Bible Readings for Memorial of Saints Martha, Mary, and Lazarus | July 29, 2026
Reading 1: Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 59:2-3, 4, 10-11, 17, 18
Gospel: John 11:19-27 or Luke 10:38-42

Gospel Reading ~ John 11:19-27

“Jesus told her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and anyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?’”

“Many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them about their brother. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went to meet him; but Mary sat at home. Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you.” Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise.” Martha said to him, “I know he will rise, in the resurrection on the last day.” Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and anyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” She said to him, “Yes, Lord. I have come to believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world.””

SCRIPTURE REFLECTIONS

In today’s Gospel, on the Memorial of Saints Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, we encounter a deeply personal moment between Jesus and Martha in her time of grief. Even in her sorrow over her brother Lazarus, Martha runs out to meet Jesus with bold faith, declaring, “Even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you.” In response, Jesus reveals one of the most powerful truths of the Gospel: “I am the resurrection and the life.” He moves Martha’s hope from an abstract future event to a present reality found in His very Person. Her profound profession of faith, recognizing Jesus as the Messiah, serves as a model for us when we face loss, disappointment, or waiting on God’s timing.

In the First Reading, the prophet Jeremiah pours out his heart during a time of intense personal trial, feeling isolated and overwhelmed by his mission. God responds not by removing the struggle immediately, but by promising His presence and strength: “I am with you, to deliver and rescue you.”

The Responsorial Psalm echoes this trust, boldly proclaiming, “God is my refuge on the day of distress.” Both passages remind us that walking with God does not exempt us from pain, but guarantees that we will never face our trials alone.

Today’s scriptures invite us to reflect on where we anchor our hope when life feels heavy. Whether we are burdened like Martha, feeling isolated like Jeremiah, or mourning a loss, Jesus presents the same question to our hearts today: “Do you believe this?” May we respond with Martha’s steadfast conviction, anchoring our lives in the One who is our strength, our refuge, and our eternal life.

Lord Jesus, You are the Resurrection and the Life, our sure hope in times of sorrow and trial. Forgive us for the moments we doubt Your presence or timing. Grant us Martha’s bold faith to trust You even in grief, Jeremiah’s perseverance in hardship, and Mary’s quiet heart to sit at Your feet. Be our refuge on days of distress, strengthen us to carry out Your will, and draw us into deeper communion with You each day. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 🙏🏽

SAINTS OF THE DAY | JULY 29TH:

Link to Saints of the Day with Daily Reflections | July 29th https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com

Direct link to the detailed history of Saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus, Saint Felix II, and Saints Simplicius, Faustinus and Beatrice | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/saints-of-the-day-feast-day-july-29th/

SAINTS MARTHA, MARY, AND LAZARUS: These three siblings of Bethany welcomed Jesus into their home and hearts, offering Him love, friendship, and faith. Martha served with devotion, Mary listened with reverence, and Lazarus witnessed to the power of Christ’s resurrection. In 2021, Pope Francis officially expanded the memorial of July 29 to honor all three Martha, Mary, and Lazarus for their exemplary witness of hospitality, discipleship, and deep trust in Jesus.

Tradition holds that after the Resurrection, they evangelized in France Martha leading a community of women, Mary continuing a contemplative life, and Lazarus becoming the first bishop of Marseilles. Together, they remind us that holiness blossoms in family life, in acts of service, listening hearts, and unwavering belief.

PRAYER: Saints Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, teach us to welcome Christ with open hearts, to listen to His word, and to trust Him even in sorrow. Strengthen all families in faith and love. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINT FELIX II, POPE AND CONFESSOR (D. 365): Saint Felix II served during a turbulent era marked by the Arian heresy. Though originally installed under controversial circumstances, his fidelity to Christ and the Church remained evident. After exile and years of quiet witness, he died around 365 and was venerated as a saint. His life reflects the trials of faithful leadership and perseverance amid confusion and division.

PRAYER: O Lord, through the steadfast faith of Pope Felix II, guide all who serve the Church in leadership. May we remain faithful in truth and charity. Amen. 🙏🏾

SAINTS SIMPLICIUS, FAUSTINUS & BEATRICE, MARTYRS (D. 304): These brave siblings gave their lives for Christ during the persecution of Diocletian. Simplicius and Faustinus were beheaded and thrown into the Tiber. Their sister Beatrice, who retrieved and buried their bodies, was later martyred by strangulation after refusing to renounce Christ. Their witness is immortalized in Roman catacombs and early Christian art.

PRAYER: Saints Simplicius, Faustinus, and Beatrice, may your courage and faith strengthen all who face trials today. Pray for siblings to remain united in Christ’s love. Amen. 🙏🏾

HONORING THE SAINTS OF THE DAY:
Alongside Saints Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, Saint Felix II, and Saints Simplicius, Faustinus, and Beatrice, we also honor: SAINT CALLINICUS, BLESSED JOHN BAPTIST LO, BLESSED JOSEPH TSHANG, SAINT KILIAN, BLESSED LOUIS BERTRAN, SAINTS LUCILLA & COMPANIONS, SAINT LUPUS, BLESSED MANCIUS OF THE HOLY CROSS, SAINT MARTHA WANG, SAINT OLAF OF NORWAY, BLESSED PAUL TCHENG, BLESSED PETER OF THE HOLY MOTHER OF GOD, SAINT SERAPHINA, SAINT SERAPIA, BLESSED URBAN II, AND SAINT WILLIAM OF SAINT-BRIEUC. May their faithful lives inspire our own journey today.

Our Blessed Mother Mary, Saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus, Saint Felix II, and Saints Simplicius, Faustinus and Beatrice, and all the Saints we celebrate today ~ Pray for us. 🙏🏽

PRAYER INTENTION: FAMILY UNITY, HOMEMAKERS, AND TRUST IN TIMES OF DISTRESS

Heavenly Father, You are our refuge in times of trouble and the source of all eternal hope. As we go about our daily responsibilities today, grant us Martha’s spirit of service, Mary’s listening heart, and Lazarus’s witness to Your life-giving power. Through the loving intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, Saints Martha, Mary, and Lazarus (Patrons of siblings, homemakers, and travelers), Saint Felix II, and Saints Simplicius, Faustinus, and Beatrice, we present our needs to You. We pray for all families, that brothers and sisters may be united in Your love; for homemakers, domestic workers, and travelers; and for the sick and dying, especially those suffering from cancer and terminal illnesses, asking for Your healing touch. Strengthen all who face distress or persecution, guide the leaders of Your Church, and draw all hearts back to You. May we always welcome Christ into our homes and hearts. Amen. 🙏🏽

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

THE POPE’S MONTHLY INTENTIONS FOR 2026: FOR THE MONTH OF JULY: For respect for human life. Let us pray for the respect and protection of human life in all its stages, recognizing it as a gift from God.

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

DEVOTION OF THE MONTH OF JULY | MONTH OF THE MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD OF JESUS: July is dedicated to the Most Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ a profound devotion that honors the redeeming power of Christ’s Blood shed for our salvation. Flowing from His Sacred Heart, this Blood is the price of our redemption, the source of grace in the sacraments, and the seal of the New Covenant. It reminds us that salvation was not won lightly, but through the ultimate sacrifice of love. This month, the Church invites us to meditate on the infinite value of Christ’s Blood poured out during His Passion from Gethsemane to Calvary and in every celebration of the Holy Eucharist. We are called to offer acts of reparation for the sins of the world and to intercede for the conversion of souls. Devotions such as the Litany of the Precious Blood, the Chaplet of the Precious Blood, and daily consecration to the Precious Blood help deepen our union with Christ crucified.

As Saint John Chrysostom once said, “The Precious Blood is the salvation of souls; it purifies, sanctifies, and strengthens.” In our trials, let us take refuge beneath the cross, trusting in the Blood that speaks of mercy, victory, and eternal life.

“Precious Blood of Jesus, save us and the whole world.”

O Most Precious Blood of Jesus, fountain of salvation, we adore You. Wash us clean of sin, protect us from evil, and draw us into deeper love and union with You. Amen. 🙏🏽

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/month.cfm?y=2026&m=6

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 July 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 journey ahead. Amen. 🙏🏽

Save Us, Savior of the World. Our Blessed Mother Mary Saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus, Saint Felix II, Saints Simplicius, Faustinus and Beatrice, 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/