Last month we reflected a little on the Church’s devotion for February of the Holy Family. Today we explore the March devotion: St Joseph.
All we know of St. Joseph is derived from scripture. We know he was a kind and Godly man, with humble origins but from the line of David.
Saint Joseph provided the earthly example of fatherhood that all men can model. He provided for his family. He undoubtedly shared his carpentry craft with the child Jesus. When Mary was pregnant during their betrothal with a child obviously not his, he ultimately protected her and cared for her.
Saint Joseph is the patron saint of fathers, expectant mothers, house sellers and buyers, craftsmen, engineers, and is a patron of several regions and cities around the world.
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Please join me in praying the following prayer from the Contemplatives of Saint Joseph:
Prayer to St. Joseph
O St. Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God. I place in you all my interests and desires. O St. Joseph, do assist me by your powerful intercession, and obtain for me from your divine Son all spiritual blessings, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, so that, having engaged here below your heavenly power, I may offer my thanksgiving and homage to the most loving of Fathers.
O St. Joseph, I never weary of contemplating you, and Jesus asleep in your arms; I dare not approach while He reposes near your heart. Press Him in my name and kiss His fine head for me and ask him to return the kiss when I draw my dying breath. St. Joseph, patron of departing souls, pray for me. Amen.
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Activity:
For a craft and coloring page about St Joseph for the little ones, head to this wonderful resource here.
Next Month: The Devotion to the Holy Spirit and to the Eucharist