Today, we reflect on our call to live a life of humility and service as followers of Christ. The readings urge us to prioritize spiritual wisdom over worldly gain.
We also remember Blessed Margaret Pole, a noblewoman who remained faithful to the Church even in the face of political turmoil and martyrdom during King Henry VIII’s reign. Her witness reminds us to stand firm in truth and conscience.
Daily Prayer
Gracious Lord,
As we remember Blessed Margaret Pole, may we be inspired by her steadfastness in faith amidst injustice.
Help us, Lord, to value the riches of Your grace over the treasures of this world.
Teach us to walk humbly, to serve with love, and to bear witness to Your truth without fear.
Through the blood of Christ, we are made new—let us live as children of that redemption.
Amen.
Mass Readings
First Reading: 1 Peter 1:18–25
Peter exhorts believers to live reverently, remembering that they were redeemed not with perishable things like silver or gold, but by the precious blood of Christ. We are to love one another earnestly from the heart, having been born anew through the living Word of God.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 147:12–13, 14–15, 19–20
“Praise the Lord, Jerusalem.”
God strengthens the bars of your gates and blesses your children within you. He sends forth his word to the earth swiftly and powerfully.
Gospel: Mark 10:32–45
Jesus predicts His Passion again. James and John request positions of honor in His glory, prompting Jesus to teach them that greatness in the Kingdom of God comes through humble service: “For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve.”
Saint of the Day: Blessed Margaret Pole (1473–1541)
Blessed Margaret Pole, Countess of Salisbury, was one of the last members of the Plantagenet dynasty. A devout Catholic and mother of five, she was arrested under the reign of King Henry VIII for her refusal to accept his break with the Church. She endured imprisonment with dignity and was eventually executed without trial.
Interesting Facts:
- She was the niece of King Edward IV and cousin of Queen Elizabeth of York (mother of Henry VIII).
- Her son, Cardinal Reginald Pole, openly opposed Henry VIII’s actions against the Church.
- Margaret is remembered for her fortitude and unwavering Catholic faith.
- Her execution was so poorly carried out that it became a symbol of injustice and martyrdom.
- She was beatified by Pope Leo XIII in 1886.
