Feria

On July 30, 2025, the Church observes a Feria in the Time after Pentecost, a period characterized by the growth of the Church and the deepening of our faith in the light of the Holy Spirit's gifts. Although no major feast is celebrated today, the commemoration of Saints Abdon and Sennen, who were martyrs, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by early Christians for their faith. Their story highlights the enduring strength of faith amidst persecution, inviting families to reflect on the courage it takes to live out their beliefs in today’s world.

The readings for today, particularly St. Paul's exhortation to yield our lives as instruments of justice and Jesus' warning against false prophets, prompt families to consider the importance of discernment and integrity in their spiritual lives. As we are reminded to seek holiness and truth, this day encourages families to engage in discussions about the fruits of their choices and the influences they encounter. The Collect prayer beautifully ties this reflection together, invoking the intercession of Saints Abdon and Sennen to help us erase our sins and fulfill our just desires, urging families to seek reconciliation and growth in holiness as they navigate their daily lives in faith.

The Life of Saints Abdon and Sennen: Faithful Martyrs of Courage

Historical Background: Saints Abdon and Sennen were two noblemen from Persia who lived during the early centuries of Christianity, around the time of Emperor Decius in the third century. They are believed to have been arrested for their unwavering faith and for aiding Christian prisoners, ultimately leading to their martyrdom in Rome.

Main Virtues and Spiritual Contributions: These saints exemplified remarkable courage and compassion, choosing to stand firm in their faith despite the threat of persecution. Their dedication to helping those in need, particularly fellow Christians suffering for their beliefs, serves as a powerful reminder of the Christian call to love and serve one another.

Canonization and Significance: Abdon and Sennen were venerated as martyrs, which is a testament to their ultimate sacrifice for Christ. Their stories have been preserved in the Church's tradition, inspiring countless believers to remain steadfast in their faith, no matter the challenges they face.

Lessons for Catholic Families Today: Families today can learn from Saints Abdon and Sennen by embodying their spirit of service and courage in the face of adversity. By standing up for their beliefs and supporting one another, families can create a nurturing environment that reflects Christ's love and compassion in a world that often needs it most.

Closing Prayer: Dear Saints Abdon and Sennen, intercede for us as we strive to live out our faith boldly and compassionately. May your example inspire our families to serve others and remain steadfast in our love for Christ. Amen.

Today's readings invite us to reflect deeply on the themes of discernment, integrity, and the fruits of our actions in light of our faith. In the Gospel of Matthew (Matt 7:15-21), Jesus warns His disciples about false prophets, emphasizing that we will know them by their fruits. This connects closely with the teaching in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which tells us that "the good fruits of the Spirit" are essential in discerning the authenticity of our faith (CCC 1832). This means we should always look for signs of love, joy, peace, and other virtues in our lives and in those who lead us.

St. Paul’s letter to the Romans (Rom 6:19-23) further emphasizes the importance of choosing good over evil, reminding us that yielding ourselves as instruments of justice leads to sanctification and eternal life. This is reflected in the Catechism’s teaching on human freedom and moral responsibility, stating that "we are responsible for our actions" and that our choices shape our lives and relationship with God (CCC 1731). For families, this serves as a powerful reminder to engage in open discussions about the choices they make daily and the influences they encounter, reinforcing the importance of seeking God's will in their lives.

Practically, families can put these teachings into action by creating a family discussion time each week focused on their daily experiences and the fruits of their actions. They can encourage one another to reflect on specific decisions, asking questions like, "What fruits have come from our choices this week?" or "How have we seen or experienced God’s guidance?" Additionally, families can seek the intercession of Saints Abdon and Sennen, martyrs who exemplified courage and fidelity, asking for their help to live out their faith authentically and courageously in a world that often presents competing voices. By fostering an environment of discernment and growth in holiness, families can cultivate a deeper relationship with God and a more profound understanding of their faith.