On this day, as we near the close of the liturgical year, the readings remind us that earthly pride and power pass away — but God’s justice, mercy, and the call to faithfulness endure.
We are warned by the story from Book of Daniel of human arrogance, and in the Gospel, we hear how followers of Christ may face hardship — yet we are called to remain steadfast.
As we pray, may God grant us humility, courage, and unwavering trust in His will.
Prayer of the Day
Merciful God,
You are above every earthly throne, every human boast, every vanity of power.
Grant me today a heart of humility, truth, and peace.
If I am tempted by pride, remind me of Your judgment.
If I must suffer for You, grant me strength to endure —
that I may stand firm in faith, confident in Your justice.
Teach me to rely on You, to seek Your kingdom first,
and to trust that in You, I have all I need.
Through Christ our Lord.Amen
Mass Readings of the Day
First Reading: Daniel 5:1–6, 13–14, 16–17, 23–28 — The story of King Belshazzar’s prideful feast and the mysterious “handwriting on the wall” that pronounces God’s judgment over a kingdom built on hubris.
Responsorial Psalm: Daniel 3:62–67 — A hymn of praise where all creation is called to bless the Lord.
Alleluia Verse: Revelation 2:10 — “Remain faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
Gospel: Luke 21:12–19 — Jesus warns that His followers will face persecution, but urges them not to lose heart, because through patient endurance they will gain life
Saint of the Day: St. Leonard of Port Maurice, OFM
St. Leonard of Port Maurice (1676–1751) was an Italian Franciscan priest renowned for his zeal, preaching, and devotion to the Sacred Heart. He belonged to the Order of Friars Minor and dedicated his life to evangelization through missions — traveling across Italy and other lands to preach, convert sinners, and renew faith among Christians.
Leonard lived at a time when many Catholics drifted from faith or lived lukewarm lives. With humility and passion, he preached the Gospel, emphasizing repentance, the mercy of God, and the love of Christ’s Sacred Heart. His sermons drew large crowds. He also promoted the Stations of the Cross and other devotional practices. Over his life, he gave hundreds of missions and inspired many converts.
Despite opposition and fatigue, he remained committed until old age. He died in 1751, leaving behind a legacy of holiness, fervor, and missionary zeal that continues to inspire Catholics worldwide.
10 Facts About St. Leonard of Port Maurice
- Born on December 20, 1676 in Port-Maurice (Italy).
- He was a Franciscan friar (Order of Friars Minor — OFM).
- Known for his passionate preaching and missionary work — he preached hundreds of missions across Italy and surrounding regions.
- Promoted devotional practices such as the Stations of the Cross, helping renew Catholic piety.
- Deeply devoted to the Sacred Heart of Jesus — often preached on God’s mercy, love, and conversion of sinners.
- His preaching often attracted large crowds — even in remote villages — and stirred spiritual renewal among listeners.
- He lived in a time the Church needed revival — his work helped rekindle faith in many souls drifting away from devotion.
- Despite extensive travel and labor, he remained humble and simple, living the Franciscan ideals of poverty, prayer, and service.
- Died in 1751 — his life is remembered as a model of zeal, humility, and apostolic fervor.
- His feast day is celebrated on November 26.
