May 13, 2026
Wednesday of the Sixth Week of Easter
Our Lady of Fatima (Optional Memorial)
Gospel: John 16:12–15

Today is Wednesday of the Sixth Week of Easter, on which the Church celebrates the Optional Memorial of Our Lady of Fatima. According to the provisions of the General Roman Calendar for this year, in regions where the Ascension of the Lord is celebrated tomorrow, the Vigil Mass for the Ascension is to be celebrated this evening. In regions where the celebration of the Ascension has been transferred to the Seventh Sunday of Easter by permission of the Apostolic See, the Feast of St. Matthias the Apostle is observed tomorrow. Mindful of the pastoral needs arising from these liturgical variations, we will provide distinct spiritual reflections corresponding to each observance throughout this year.

The Gospel for Wednesday of the Sixth Week of Easter is taken from the Holy Gospel according to John. Jesus continues to reveal to us the relationship between Himself and the Father. At times, we may find ourselves perplexed by Jesus’ descriptions of His relationship with the Father, because we do not follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit, but instead interpret His words according to worldly perspectives and the logic of this age. Sometimes, we regard all that is written in Sacred Scripture—particularly the words and deeds of Jesus—as mere fables.

In truth, each of us has received the Spirit of Truth. This Spirit dwells perpetually within the Church; at the moment of our Baptism and Confirmation, He seals our souls with an indelible character. According to the measure of our capacity, He bestows diverse charisms upon us, enabling each of us to fulfill our unique mission. St. Paul teaches us: “God has appointed in the Church first Apostles, second Prophets, third Teachers, then workers of miracles, healers, helpers, administrators, and speakers in various tongues” (cf. 1 Cor 12:27–28). When we follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit and wisely employ the graces He grants us, we intimately experience His presence. Through Him, we come to know the Word of God and, through that Word, are led to the Heavenly Father. Thus, we live within the perfect love of the Most Holy Trinity.

May Our Lady of Fatima intercede for us before the throne of God, that we may imitate her example by being attentive to the Word of God and faithfully fulfilling the vocation bestowed upon us. Amen.

©Totus Tuus 2026
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica