After celebrating the Baptism of the Lord, the Church now steps into Ordinary Time, where Christ begins His public ministry and calls His disciples.
Today reminds us that God works powerfully through ordinary moments—calling us, forming us, and inviting us to follow Him daily.
Prayer of the Day
Almighty ever-living God,
who govern all things, both in heaven and on earth,
mercifully hear the pleas of your people
and bestow your peace on our times.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Mass Readings of the Day
First Reading
1 Samuel 1:1–8
Hannah, deeply distressed by her barrenness, pours out her heart before the Lord. Despite her sorrow, she continues to trust in God’s providence.
“Hannah was greatly distressed and prayed to the Lord and wept in anguish.”
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 116:12–13, 14–17, 18–19
Response: To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.
Gospel
Mark 1:14–20
Jesus begins His public ministry and calls His first disciples.
“Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
Immediately, they leave everything and follow Him.
Saint of the Day
Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys
Founder, Educator, Missionary
Born in France in 1620, St. Marguerite Bourgeoys felt called to serve God not behind cloistered walls, but out in the world. She journeyed to New France (modern-day Canada) and founded the Congregation of Notre Dame, one of the first uncloistered religious communities for women.
She dedicated her life to educating girls, forming families, and strengthening faith in a new and often harsh land. Her courage, humility, and devotion to Mary transformed generations, proving that holiness flourishes through service, education, and trust in God.
10 Facts About St. Marguerite Bourgeoys
- She was born in Troyes, France, in 1620.
- She was deeply inspired by the Virgin Mary.
- She traveled to Canada as a laywoman missionary.
- She founded the Congregation of Notre Dame in Montreal.
- Her community focused on educating girls.
- She rejected cloistered religious life to serve actively.
- She endured poverty, illness, and opposition.
- She built the first chapel of Our Lady of Bon-Secours in Montreal.
- She was canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1982.
- She is the patron saint of educators and women teachers.
Closing Reflection
Today’s Gospel reminds us that Jesus still calls ordinary people—right where they are. Like Hannah’s trust and St. Marguerite’s courage, may we respond generously when God invites us to follow Him.
“Come after me.”
May we rise, leave our nets, and walk with Christ.
