As we begin this new week, may our hearts be inspired by his courage and unwavering trust in God’s plan.
Prayer of the Day
O Lord, Shepherd of our souls,
You called Saint Willibald from the comforts of home
To journey across nations in service of Your Gospel.
Grant us the courage to answer Your call wherever it may lead,
And the faith to walk in trust, even through difficulty and the unknown.
May we bring the light of Your truth to others
And remain faithful to the mission You’ve placed in our hearts.
Mass Readings of the Day
First Reading: Hosea 2:16, 17c–18, 21–22
God promises to lead His people back to Himself, to speak tenderly to them, and to betroth them to Him in faithfulness.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 145:2–3, 4–5, 6–7, 8–9
Response: “The Lord is gracious and merciful.”
Gospel: Matthew 9:18–26
Jesus raises a young girl from the dead and heals a woman with a hemorrhage, demonstrating His compassion and power to restore life.
Saint of the Day – Saint Willibald
Born in England around 700 A.D., Saint Willibald was the son of Saint Richard the Pilgrim and brother of Saints Winebald and Walburga. He undertook a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and later became a missionary in Germany under the guidance of his relative, Saint Boniface.
Eventually appointed the first bishop of Eichstätt, he served faithfully in pastoral work and helped establish monastic life in the region. His life reflects a deep commitment to evangelization, prayer, and sacrifice.
Interesting Facts About Saint Willibald
- He was one of the first English pilgrims to visit the Holy Land.
- He was imprisoned by Muslims in Syria but later released.
- His travel diary, dictated to a nun (his cousin), became one of the earliest travelogues in medieval Europe.
- He was consecrated bishop by Saint Boniface.
- He died around 787 A.D. and is buried in Eichstätt Cathedral.
