Joseph, the quiet man of the Gospels, was a just and righteous man of integrity.
He was in the line of the great men of faith of the Old Testament, like Abraham and Moses. Despite being a key figure in the story of Jesus, his importance was often overlooked for centuries. But in Catholic tradition, he gradually gained recognition and was honored as the patron saint of fathers of families, manual workers, and all who desire a holy death.
Catholics honor Saint Joseph in many ways, but one of the most beautiful is through the nine-day novena traditionally prayed before the Feast of Saint Joseph on March 19th. The novena begins on March 10th and includes a beautiful invocation prayer that has been used by Catholics for centuries.
The prayer begins with a heartfelt appeal to Saint Joseph, “O Saint Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God, I place in you all my interests and desires.”
It then goes on to ask for Saint Joseph’s powerful intercession and to obtain spiritual blessings from his Divine Son, Jesus Christ. The prayer concludes with a request for Saint Joseph to pray for the person’s intention and to intercede for departed souls as their patron saint.
This novena is a perfect way to remember the devotion and holiness of this quiet man of the Gospels. Through the intercession of Saint Joseph, may we obtain the spiritual blessings we need to offer our thanksgiving and homage to our most loving Father.
Read the full Nine Day Novena to Saint Joseph:
O Saint 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 Saint 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 Saint Joseph, I never weary 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.
Saint Joseph, Patron of departed souls – pray for me. Amen.
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