Month: March 2019

Quotes about Saint Joseph

St. Joseph was chosen among all men, to be the protector and guardian of the Virgin Mother of God; the defender and foster-father of the Infant-God, and the only co-operator upon earth, the one confidant of the secret of God in the work of the redemption of mankind. – St. Bernard of Clairvaux

Though thou hast recourse to many saints as thine intercessors, go specially to St. Joseph, for he has great power with God. St. Teresa of Avila

Saint Joseph was a just man, a tireless worker, the upright guardian of those entrusted to his care. May he always guard, protect and enlighten familes. – Pope John Paul II

The children of the world are ignorant regarding the privileges and rights which the Most High has conferred on my holy spouse, and the power of his intercession with the Divine Majesty and with me. But I assure you, my daughter, that in Heaven he is most intimate with the Lord, and has great power to avert the punishment of Divine justice from sinners. In all trials seek his intercession, because the Heavenly Father will grant whatever my spouse asks. – Ven. Mary of Agreda

Since we all must die, we should cherish a special devotion to St. Joseph, that he may obtain for us a happy death. All Christians regard him as the advocate of the dying who had honored him during their life, and they do so for three reasons: First, because Jesus Christ loved him not only as a friend, but as a father, and on this account his mediation is far more efficacious than that of any other Saint. Second, because St. Joseph has obtained special power against the evil spirits, who tempt us with redoubled vigor at the hour of death. Third, the assistance given St. Joseph at his death by Jesus and Mary obtained for him the right to secure a holy and peaceful death for his servants. Hence, if they invoke him at the hour of death he will not only help them, but he will also obtain for them the assistance of Jesus and Mary. – St. Alphonsus Liguori

The Lord has arrayed Joseph, like with a sun, in all which the saints possess together in regard to light and splendor. – St Gregory of Nazianzus

Some Saints are privileged to extend to us their patronage with particular efficacy in certain needs, but not in others; but our holy patron St. Joseph has the power to assist us in all cases, in every necessity, in every undertaking. – St. Thomas Aquinas
We should, indeed, honor St. Joseph, since the Son of God Himself was graciously pleased to honor him by calling him father. The Holy Scriptures speak of him as the father of Jesus. “His father and mother were marveling at the things spoken  -concerning Him” (Luke 2:33). Mary also used this name: “in sorrow thy father and I have been seeking thee” (Luke 2:48). If, then, the King of Kings was pleased to raise Joseph to so high a dignity, it is right and obligatory on our part to endeavor to honor him as much as we can.  – St. Alphonsus Liguori

To other Saints Our Lord seems to have given power to succor us in some special necessity—but to this glorious Saint, I know by experience, He has given the power to help us in all. Our Lord would have us understand that as He was subject to St. Joseph on earth—for St. Joseph, bearing the title of father and being His guardian, could command Him—so now in Heaven Our Lord grants all his petitions. I have asked others to recommend themselves to St. Joseph, and they, too, know the same thing by experience  – St.Teresa of Avila

Go, then to Joseph, and do all that he shall say to you;
Go to Joseph, and obey him as Jesus and Mary obeyed him;
Go to Joseph, and speak to him as they spoke to him;
Go to Joseph, and consult him as they consulted him;
Go to Joseph, and honour him as they honoured him;

Go to Joseph, and be grateful to him as they were grateful to him;
Go to Joseph, and love him, as they love him still.

– St. Alphonsus Liguori

“Men of every rank and country should fly to the trust and guard of the blessed Joseph,” especially fathers of families, Pope Leo XIII wrote in his encyclical on devotion to St. Joseph, Quamquam pluries.

God, because of the great love He bears us, and His great desire to see us saved, has given us among other means of salvation the practice of devotion to the saints. It is His will that they, who are His friends, should intercede for us, and by their merits and prayers obtain graces for us which we ourselves do not deserve. But everyone must know that, after the Mother of God, St. Joseph is, of all the saints, the one dearest to God. He has, therefore, great power with Him and can obtain graces for His devout clients…    – St. Alphonsus Liguori

The two disciples, going to Emmaus, (Lk. 24:13-31) were inflamed with divine love by the few moments which they spent in company with our Savior, and by His words. What flames of holy love must not, then, have been enkindled in the heart of St. Joseph, who for thirty years conversed with Jesus Christ, and listened to His words of eternal life; who observed the perfect example which Jesus gave of humility and patience, and saw the promptness with which He obeyed and helped him in his labors, and all that was needed for the household! – St. Alphonsus Liguori

Would that I could persuade all men to be devoted to this glorious Saint [St. Joseph], for I know by long experience what blessings he can obtain for us from God. I have never known anyone who was truly devoted to him and honored him by particular services who did not advance greatly in virtue: for he helps in a special way those souls who commend themselves to him. It is now very many years since I began asking him for something on his feast, and I have always received it. If the petition was in any way amiss, he rectified it for my greater good . . . I ask for the love of God that he who does not believe me will make the trial for himself—then he will find out by experience the great good that results from commending oneself to this glorious Patriarch and in being devoted to him .- St.Teresa of Avila

Prayers

HAIL JOSEPH

Hail Joseph, full of grace! JESUS and Mary are with thee; blessed art thou amongst men, and blessed is the hit of thy chaste Spouse, JESUS. Holy Joseph, nursing-father of JESUS, and spouse of the blessed Virgin Mary, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

THE SAME IN LATIN

Ave Joseph gratia plene, JESUS et Maria tecum; benedictus tu in hominibus, et benedictus fructus Spousae tuae JESUS.
Sancte Joseph, pater nutritie JESU, et beatae virginis Mariae Spouse, ora pro nobis pecatoribus nunc et in hora mortis nostrae. Amen.

FOR ALL SORTS OF NEEDS

O my kind and powerful protector, Saint Joseph, how consoling is the assurance of Saint Teresa, that she has never prayed to thee in vain, and that those are always heard who have a true devotion for thee, and ask thy aid with entire confidence. Animated with the same confidence, I have recourse to thee, 0 worthy Spouse of the Virgin of virgins! I cast myself at thy feet, and, sinner that I am, I dare to appear in penitence before thee. Do not reject my humble prayer, oh thou who hast borne the glorious name of the father of JESUS! but listen favourably to me, and intercede for me. with Him Who wished to be called thy Son, and who always honoured thee as His father. Amen.

PRAYER TO SAINT JOSEPH, THE PROTECTOR OF CHRISTIAN FAMILIES

Great Saint Joseph, who wast chosen of God to be the head of the holiest and most august of families, deign to cast thy eyes upon us, and take us this day under thy special protection. Holy Patriarch, model of the holiest faith, and of the most perfect virtues, obtain for all the members of this family grace to withstand the dangers and seductions of the world, and to remain stedfastly attached to the LORD. Obtain for us that, always united by the bonds of the most tender charity, and encouraging one another mutually in good works, we may taste under thy auspices the sweetness of that peace which JESUS has promised to His true disciples. But above all, when our last hour shall come, obtain for us that we may find grace before the Sovereign Judge, so that, reunited in heaven at the foot of Thy Throne, we may celebrate everlastingly the glory of GOD and thy praise. Amen.

PRAYER TO SAINT JOSEPH TO OBTAIN THE CONVERSION OF A SINNER

O holy Joseph, I earnestly recommend to thy care the salvation of the soul of N., which JESUS has redeemed by the shedding of His Blood. Thou knowest, great saint, how miserable are those who have banished this Divine Saviour from their hearts, and are in danger of eternally losing Him. Do not permit, then, that this soul so dear to me may be longer separated from Him; enlighten it with regard to the dangers that threaten it. Powerfully move this heart, and bring I back this prodigal child to the bosom of the best of Fathers. Do not abandon it until thou hast opened to it the gates of Heaven, where it will bless thee eternally for the happiness which thou hast procured for it. Amen.

PRAYER TO SAINT JOSEPH FOR A SOUL IN PURGATORY

Great Saint Joseph, who hast so tenderly loved JESUS, and felt so keenly the loss of His Presence during the time that thou wast in Limbo, I earnestly recommend to thee the soul of N., who may at this moment be suffering in Purgatory. Be thou his consoler in that place of suffering and expiation ! deign to apply to him the pious suffrages of the faithful, particularly my own; be thou his intercessor with JESUS and with Mary, and obtain by thy prayers that, delivered from the bonds that hold him in captivity, he may fly to the bosom of GOD, there to be eternally in the enjoyment of those delights with which the elect are blessed. Amen

PRAYER TO SAINT JOSEPH TO OBTAIN LIGHT UPON THE CHOICE OF A STATE OF LIFE

Great Saint, who wast so docile to the leading of the Holy Spirit, obtain for me grace to know to what state Providence has destined me. Do not permit me to err in this important choice, upon which depends my happiness in this world, and perhaps my eternal salvation, but obtain for me, that, enlightened concerning the Divine Will, and being faithful in following it, I may walk in the way that the LORD has determined for me, which will conduct me to a blessed eternity. Amen.

CONSECRATION OF A CHILD TO SAINT JOSEPH

Great Saint Joseph, who wast as a father to our Divine Saviour, we offer and consecrate to thee this child. Deign to be (his) protector and (his) father. Preserve in (him) the precious treasure of innocence. Protect (him) from all dangers to body and soul, and inspire in (him) from (his) earliest days a tender love for thee, for Mary, thy immaculate Spouse, and for JESUS, thy adorable Son. May thy holy protection be with (him) throughout (his) life. Watch over all (his) ways, guide (him) in all (his) enterprises, conduct (him) always in the path of the precepts of the LORD, and deign to bring (him) at the moment of (his) death into the Heavenly Jerusalem, there eternally to sing the Divine mercies, and thy paternal bounty. Amen.

NINE-DAYS NOVENA TO ST. JOSEPH

Oh, 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. Oh, 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.

Oh, 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.

This prayer was found in the fifteenth year of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In 1505 it was sent from the Pope to Emperor Charles when he was going into battle. Whoever shall read this prayer or hear it or keep it about themselves, shall never die a sudden death, or be drowned, not shall poison take effect of them; neither shall they fall into the hands of the enemy; or shall be burned in any fire, or shall be overpowered in battle.

Say for nine mornings for anything you may desire. It has never been known to fail, so be sure you really want what you ask.

Litany of St Joseph

Novena to St Joseph

Glorious St. Joseph, foster-father and protector of Jesus Christ! To you do I raise my heart and hands to implore your powerful intercession. Please obtain for me from the kind Heart of Jesus the help and graces necessary for my spiritual and temporal welfare. I ask particularly for the grace of a happy death, and the special favor I now implore (name it).

Guardian of the Word Incarnate, I feel animated with confidence that your prayers in my behalf will be graciously heard before the throne of God.

℣. O glorious St. Joseph, through the love you bear to Jesus Christ, and for the glory of His name,
℟. Hear my prayers and obtain my petitions.

Memorare to St Joseph

Remember, O most chaste spouse of the Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who implored your help and sought your intercession were left unassisted.
Full of confidence in your power I fly unto you and beg your protection.
Despise not O Guardian of the Redeemer my humble supplication, but in your bounty, hear and answer me. Amen.

Another Memorare

Remember, O most illustrious Patriarch St. Joseph, on the testimony of St. Teresa, thy devoted client, never has it been heard that anyone who invoked thy protection or sought thy mediation has not obtained relief.  In this confidence I come before thee, my loving protector, chaste spouse of Mary, foster-father of the Savior of men and dispenser of the treasures of His Sacred Heart. Despise not my earnest prayer, but graciously hear and obtain my petition…. (Here mention your request)

Let us pray

O God, Who by Thine ineffable Providence didst vouchsafe to choose St. Joseph to be the spouse of Thy most holy Mother, grant, we beseech Thee, that he whom we venerate as our protector on earth may be our intercessor in Heaven, Who livest and reignest forever and ever.  Amen.

St. Joseph, Patron of a Happy Death, pray for us.

Prayer to St. Joseph to Obtain a Special Favor

O Blessed Saint Joseph, tender-hearted father, faithful guardian of Jesus, chaste spouse of the Mother of God, we pray and beseech thee to offer to God the Father His Divine Son, bathed in blood on the cross for sinners, and through the thrice-holy Name of Jesus, obtain for us from the Eternal Father, the favor we implore.

(Mention your intention)

Appease the Divine anger so justly inflamed by our crimes; beg of Jesus mercy for thy children. Amid the splendors of eternity, forget not the sorrows of those who suffer, those who pray, those who weep. Stay the Almighty arm which smites us, that by thy prayers and those of thy most holy spouse, the Heart of Jesus may be moved to pity and to pardon. Amen.

Joseph, pray for us.

THIRTY DAYS PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH (IN HONOR OF THE 30 YEARS HE SPENT WITH JESUS AND MARY)

(Note: This prayer was taken from a leaflet provided by the Josephites and may be said during any 30 days of the year.)

Ever blessed and glorious Joseph, kind and loving father, and helpful friend of all in sorrow! You are the good father and protector of orphans, the defender of the defenseless, the patron of those in need and sorrow.

Look kindly on my request. My sins have drawn down on me the just displeasure of my God, and so I am surrounded with unhappiness. To you, loving guardian of the Family of Nazareth, do I go for help and protection. Listen, then, I beg you, with fatherly concern, to my earnest prayers, and obtain for me the favors I ask.

I ask it by the infinite mercy of the eternal Son of God, which moved Him to take our nature and to be born into this world of sorrow.

I ask it by the weariness and suffering you endured when you found no shelter at the inn of Bethlehem for the Holy Virgin, nor a house where the Son of God could be born. Then, being everywhere refused, you had to allow the Queen of Heaven to give birth to the world’s Redeemer in a cave.

I ask it by the loveliness and power of that sacred Name, Jesus, which you conferred on the adorable Infant.

I ask it by the painful torture you felt at the prophecy of holy Simeon, which declared the Child Jesus and His holy Mother future victims of our sins and of their great love for us.

I ask it through your sorrow and pain of soul when the angel declared to you that the life of the Child Jesus was sought by His enemies. From their evil plan, you had to flee with Him and His Blessed Mother to Egypt.

I ask it by all the suffering, weariness, and labors of that long and dangerous journey.

I ask it by all your care to protect the Sacred Child and His Immaculate Mother during your second journey, when you were ordered to return to your own country.

I ask it by your peaceful life in Nazareth where you met with so many joys and sorrows. I ask it by your great distress when the adorable Child was lost to you and His mother for three days.

I ask it by your joy at finding Him in the temple, and by the comfort you found at Nazareth, while living in the company of the Child Jesus.

I ask it by the wonderful submission He showed in His obedience to you.

I ask it by the perfect love and conformity you showed in accepting the Divine order to depart from this life, and from the company of Jesus and Mary.

I ask it by the joy which filled your soul, when the Redeemer of the world, triumphant over death and hell, entered into the possession of His kingdom and led you into it with special honors.

I ask it through Mary’s glorious Assumption, and through that endless happiness you have with her in the presence of God. O good father! I beg you, by all your sufferings, sorrows, and joys, to hear me and obtain for me what I ask. (Here name your petitions or think of them.)

Obtain for all those who have asked my prayers everything that is useful to them in the plan of God. Finally, my dear patron and father, be with me and all who are dear to me in our last moments, that we may eternally sing the praises of:

JESUS, MARY AND JOSEPH

“A blameless life, St. Joseph, may we lead, by your kind patronage from danger freed.” Amen.

For Purity

Saint Joseph, father and guardian of virgins, to whose faithful keeping Christ Jesus, innocence itself, and Mary, the virgin of virgins was entrusted, I pray and beseech you by that twofold and most precious charge, by Jesus and Mary, to save me from all uncleanness, to keep my mind untainted, my heart pure, and my body chaste; and to help me always to serve Jesus and Mary in perfect chastity. Amen.

Prayer to St. Joseph the Workman by Pope St. Pius X

Glorious St. Joseph, model of all who are devoted to labor, obtain for me the grace to work in the spirit of penance in expiation of my many sins; to work conscientiously by placing love of duty above my inclinations; to gratefully and joyously deem it an honor to employ and to develop by labor the gifts I have received from God, to work methodically, peacefully, and in moderation and patience, without ever shrinking from it through weariness or difficulty to work; above all, with purity of intention and unselfishness, having unceasingly before my eyes death and the account I have to render of time lost, talents unused, good not done, and vain complacency in success, so baneful to the work of God. All for Jesus, all for Mary, all to imitate thee, O patriarch St. Joseph! This shall be my motto for life and eternity. Amen.

Fr. Lallemant’s Powerful Novena to St. Joseph

No specific prayers are necessary. Each day for 9 days, turn to St. Joseph in spirit honoring him 4 times throughout the day. During each visit, consider one of the following aspects of St. Joseph, remembering to thank God for honoring St. Joseph and, through his intercession, request a similar grace:

– 1st Visit: St. Joseph’s Fidelity to Grace; the Holy Ghost’s action in his soul.

– 2nd Visit: St. Joseph’s Fidelity to the Interior Life; his Spirit of Recollection.

– 3rd Visit: St. Joseph’s Love for Our Lady.

– 4th Visit: St. Joseph’s Love for the Divine Child.

How to Make this Novena

(These “visits” may be made anywhere – at home, at work, on the street, in the car or bus – and at any time.)

During the first visit, consider St. Joseph’s fidelity to grace. Reflect upon the action of the Holy Ghost in his soul. At the conclusion of this brief meditation, thank God for so honoring St. Joseph, and ask, through his intercession, for a similar grace.

Later in the day, consider St. Joseph’s fidelity to the interior life. Study his spirit of recollection. Think, thank God, and ask.

Later still, consider St. Joseph’s love for Our Lady. Think, thank God, and ask.

Finally, in a fourth visit, reflect upon St. Joseph’s love for the Divine Child. Think, thank God, and ask.

Prayer Which May Be Said at the Conclusion of the Visits

(These prayers are adapted from Reflections for a Novena to St. Joseph, by Sister Emily Joseph, C.S.J.)

O My God, I thank Thee and bless Thee for St. Joseph’s great faithfulness to grace. Grant that, through his loving intercession and the power of his example, I too may be faithful to grace. O St. Joseph, intercede for me, and obtain for me the favor I ask. (Name your request).

 

O My God, I thank Thee and bless Thee for St. Joseph’s great faithfulness to the interior life. Grant that, through his loving intercession and the power of his example, I too may be faithful to the interior life. O St. Joseph, intercede for me, and obtain for me the favor I ask. (Name your request).

O My God, I thank Thee and bless Thee for St. Joseph’s great love for Our Lady. Grant that, through his loving intercession and the power of his example, I too may truly love the Blessed Virgin Mary. O St. Joseph, intercede for me, and obtain for me the favor I ask. (Name your request).

O My God, I thank Thee and bless Thee for St. Joseph’s great love for the Divine Child. Grant that, through his loving intercession and the power of his example, I too may truly love the Child Jesus. O St. Joseph, intercede for me, and obtain for me the favor I ask. (Name your request). (Source)

Prayer to St. Joseph to obtain a conversion

Oh glorious patriarc St. Joseph, who merited to be called “just’ by the Holy Ghost, I urgently recommend to the soul of [Name], which Jesus redeemed at the price of his precious blood.Thou knowest how deplorable is the state and how unhappy the life of those who have banished this loving savior from their hearts, and how greatly they are exposed to the danger of losing him eternally. Permit not, I beseech thee, that a soul so dear to me should continue any longer in its evil ways; preserve it from the danger that threatens it; touch the heart of the prodigal child and conduct him back to the bosom of the fondest of fathers. Abandon him not, I implore thee, till thou hast opened to him the gates of the heavenly city, where he will praise and bless thee throughout eternity for the happiness which he will owe to thy powerful intercession.
Amen.

To thee, O blessed Joseph

During the month of October, in all churches and oratories, the Rosary and Litany of Loreto are recited daily. The prayer, Ad te beáte Joseph, is recited daily. Decree of Pope Leo XIII, August 20, 1885; and Decree S.R.C. May 3, 1960.  Pope Benedict XVI, asked that this be offered for his protection and his intentions. (March, 2011)

To thee, O blessed Joseph, do we have recourse in our tribulation, and, having implored the help of thy thrice-holy Spouse, we confidently invoke thy patronage also. By that charity wherewith thou wast united to the immaculate Virgin Mother of God, and by that fatherly affection with which thou didst embrace the Child Jesus, we beseech thee and we humbly pray, that thou wouldst look graciously upon the inheritance which Jesus Christ hath purchased by His Blood, and assist us in our needs by thy power and strength. Most watchful guardian of the Holy Family, protect the chosen people of Jesus Christ; keep far from us, most loving father, all blight of error and corruption: mercifully assist us from Heaven, most mighty defender, in this our conflict with the powers of darkness; and, even as of old thou didst rescue the Child Jesus from the supreme peril of His life, so now defend God’s Holy Church from the snares of the enemy and from all adversity; keep us one and all under thy continual protection, that we may be supported by thine example and thine assistance, may be enabled to lead a holy life, die a happy death and come at last to the possession of everlasting blessedness in Heaven. Amen.

Ad te beáte Joseph, in Latine

Ad te beáte Joseph, in tribulatióne nostra confúgimus, atque, imploráto Sponsæ tuæ sanctíssimæ auxílio, patrocínium quoque tuum fidenter expóscimus. Per eam, quæsumus, quæ te cum immaculáta Vírgine Dei Genitríce coniúnxit, caritátem, perque patérnum, quo Púerum Iesum ampléxus es, amórem, súpplices deprecámur, ut ad hereditátem, quam Iesus Christus acquisívit Sánguine suo, benígnus respícias, ac necessitátibus nostris tua virtúte et ope succúrras. Tuére, o Custos providentíssime divínæ Famíliæ, Iesu Christi sóbolem eléctam; próhibe a nobis, amantíssime Pater, omnem errórum ac corruptelárum luem; propítius nobis, sospítator noster fortíssime, in hoc cum potestáte tenebrárum certámine e cælo adésto; et sicut olim Púerum Iesum e summo eripuísti vitre discrímine, ita nunc Ecclesiam sanctam Dei ab hostílibus insídiis atque ab omni adversitáte défende: nosque síngulos perpétuo tege patrocínio, ut ad tui exémplar et ope tua suffúlti, sancte vívere, pie émori, sempiternámque in cælis beatitúdinem ássequi possímus. Amen.

Seven Sorrows and Joys of Saint Joseph
Composed by Ven. Januarius Sarnelli C.SS.R (d.1744)

Among the many exercises of piety practiced in honor of St. Joseph, there is one generally known, namely, that of meditating on his Seven Sorrows and Seven Joys. This devotion owes its origin to a celebrated event, never omitted by any historian of the Saint.

It is as follows:

Two Fathers of the Franciscan order were sailing along the coast of Flanders, when a terrible tempest arose, which sank the vessel, with its three hundred passengers. The two Fathers had sufficient presence of mind to seize hold of a plank, upon which they were tossed to and fro upon the waves, for three days and nights. In their danger and affliction, their whole recourse was to St. Joseph, begging his assistance in their sad condition. The Saint, thus invoked, appeared in the habit of a young man of beautiful features, encouraged them to confide in his assistance, and, as their pilot, conducted them into a safe harbor. They, desirous to know who their benefactor was asked his name, that they might gratefully acknowledge so great a blessing and favor. He told them he was St. Joseph, and advised them daily to recite the Our Father and Hail Mary seven times, in memory of his seven dolors or griefs, and of his seven joys, and then disappeared.

Prayers in honor of
The Seven Sorrows and Joys of St. Joseph

Seven Sundays devotion to St. Joseph

The devotion was developed where the seven sorrows and seven joys of Joseph became the focus of meditation on the seven Sundays preceding his feast on March 19. The first Sunday of these meditations is typically either the last Sunday of January or the first Sunday of February.

When praying the Seven Sundays devotion, it is customary to pray for a specific intention, asking St. Joseph’s powerful intercession for your needs.

1st Sunday

Sorrow (Matthew 1:19) The Doubt of St. Joseph
Joy (Matthew 1:20) The Message of the Angel

2nd Sunday

Sorrow (Luke 2:7) The Poverty of Jesus’ Birth
Joy (Luke 2:10-11) The Birth of the Savior

3rd Sunday

Sorrow (Luke 2:21) The Circumcision
Joy (Matthew 1:25) The Holy Name of Jesus

4th Sunday

Sorrow (Luke 2:34) The Prophecy of Simeon
Joy (Luke 2:38) The Effects of the Redemption

5th Sunday

Sorrow (Matthew 2:14) The Flight into Egypt
Joy (Isaiah 19:1) The Overthrow of the Idols of Egypt

6th Sunday

Sorrow (Matthew 2:22) The Return from Egypt
Joy (Luke 2:39) Life with Jesus and Mary at Nazareth

7th Sunday

Sorrow (Luke 2:45) The Loss of the Child Jesus
Joy (Luke 2:46) The Finding of the Child Jesus in the Temple

Prayer in a difficult problem

Oh glorious St. Joseph, thou who hast power to render possible even things which are considered impossible, come to our aid in our present trouble and distress. Take this important and difficult affair under thy particular protection, that it may end happily. (Name your request.)O dear St. Joseph, all our confidence is in thee. let it not be said that we would invoke thee in vain; and since thou art so powerful with Jesus and Mary. show that thy goodness equals thy power. Amen, St. Joseph, friend of the sacred heart, pray for us.

Prayer To Saint Joseph For The Whole Church

O Glorious Saint Joseph,
you were chosen by God
to be the foster father of Jesus,
the most pure spouse of Mary, ever Virgin,
and the head of the Holy Family.
You have been chosen by Christ’s Vicar
as the heavenly Patron and Protector
of the Church founded by Christ.

Protect the Sovereign Pontiff
and all bishops and priests united with him.
Be the protector of all who labour for souls
amid the trials and tribulations of this life;
and grant that all peoples of the world
may be docile to the Church
without which there is no salvation.

Dear Saint Joseph,
accept the offering I make to you.
Be my father, protector,
and guide in the way of salvation.
Obtain for me purity of heart
and a love for the spiritual life.
After your example,
let all my actions be directed
to the greater glory of God,
in union with the Divine Heart of Jesus,
the Immaculate Heart of Mary,
and your own paternal heart.
Finally, pray for me that I may share
in the peace and joy of your holy death.

Amen

Petition for St. Joseph’s blessing

Bless me, Oh dearly beloved father, St. Joseph; bless my body and
my soul; bless my resolutions, my words and deeds, all my actions and omissions, my every step; bless all that I possess, all my interior and  exterior goods, that all may redound to the greater honor of God. Bless me for time and eternity, and preserve me from every sin. Obtain for me the grace to make atonement for all my sins by love and contrition here on earth, so that after my last breath I may, without delay, prostrate at thy feet return thee thanks in heaven for all the love and goodness thou, O dearest father, hast shown me here below.
Amen.

PRAYER TO SAINT JOSEPH TO OBTAIN THE SUCCESS OF A TEMPORAL ENTERPRISE

Great Saint Joseph, who art all powerful with the hearts of JESUS and Mary, thou whom no one has ever invoked in vain, I prostrate myself at thy feet, and beg with the most firm and lively confidence- (specify here the grace you wish to obtain). But if the object of my wishes is opposed to the Will of GOD and my own salvation, obtain for me the grace to resign myself with love to the Will of Him Who has a Father’s heart for me, and Who in the afflictions which He sends me; as well as in the temporal gifts which He bestows upon me, desires only my greatest good and my eternal happiness. Amen.

Now pray the Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be, three times, in thanksgiving to God for the graces and prerogatives bestowed on St. Joseph.

PRAYER TO SAINT JOSEPH TO OBTAIN A SPIRITUAL GRACE

Great Saint Joseph, who art the director, the friend, and the protector of those sods who desire to be perfect, thou who didst learn from JESUS and Mary how to conquer the powers of hell, and to practise all virtues, obtain for me-(here specify the grace you wish to obtain). Beloved Saint, my father, my guide, and my model, thou who hast so much zeal for the glory of JESUS CHRIST, and for my sanctification, canst thou reject my petition? No, I have the sweet confidence that thou wilt not reject it. Thy goodness will supply that which is lacking in my fervour, and according to the depth of thy love for me, and of thy power with Him Who has deigned to be called thy Son, thou wilt favourably hear me. Amen.

To Know One’s Vocation

O Great St. Joseph, so docile to the guidance of the Holy Ghost, obtain for me the grace to know what state of life Divine Providence destines for me. Do not allow me to be deceived with regard to so important a choice, upon which depends my happiness in this world, and even my eternal salvation. Obtain for me that, being enlightened to know the Divine Will and being faithful in accomplishing it, I may embrace the state of life which God has destined for me and which will lead me to a happy eternity. Amen.

The Praises of and Invocations to St. Joseph

PRAISES OF ST. JOSEPH

[These praises may be prayed in thanksgiving for favors received.]

IN the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.

O holy Patriarch Joseph, ever blessed by thy soul, which was adorned with all the virtues and gifts of the Holy Ghost.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

O holy Patriarch Joseph, ever blessed be thine intellect, which was full of the most sublime knowledge of God and was enlightened with revelations.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

O holy Patriarch Joseph, ever blessed be thy will, which all inflamed with love for Jesus and Mary and always perfectly conformable to the Divine Will.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

O holy Patriarch Joseph, ever blessed be thine eyes, to which it was granted to look continually upon Jesus and Mary.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

O holy Patriarch Joseph, ever blessed be thine ears, which merited to hear the sweet words of Jesus and Mary.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

O dear St. Joseph, ever blessed be thy tongue, which continually praised God and with profound humility and reverence conversed with Jesus and Mary.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

O chaste St. Joseph, ever blessed be thy most pure and loving heart, with which thou didst ardently love Jesus and Mary.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

O holy Joseph, ever blessed be thy thoughts, words and actions, each and all of which ever tended to the service of Jesus and Mary.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen

O holy Patriarch Joseph, ever blessed be all the moments of thy life, which thou didst spend in the service of Jesus and Mary.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

O my Protector St. Joseph, ever blessed be that moment of thy life in which thou didst most sweetly die in the arms of Jesus and Mary.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

O glorious St. Joseph, ever blessed be that moment in which thou didst enter into the eternal joys of Heaven.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

O happy St. Joseph, ever blessed in eternity be every moment in which, until now, in union with all the Saints of Heaven, thou hast enjoyed the incomprehensible bliss of union with God, with Jesus and Mary.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

O my dear Protector! Be ever blessed by me and by all creatures, for all eternity, with all the blessings which the Most Holy Trinity bestowed upon thee and with all the benedictions given thee by Jesus and Mary and by the whole Church.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

O thrice holy Joseph, blessed in soul and body, in life and death, on earth and in Heaven. Obtain also for me, a poor sinner but nevertheless thy true and faithful client, a share in thy blessings, the grace to imitate thee ardently, and to love and faithfully serve Jesus, Mary, and thyself, and especially the happiness to die in thy holy arms. Amen.

INVOCATIONS TO ST. JOSEPH

By Father Olier

Hail Joseph, image of God the Father.

Hail Joseph, father of God the Son.

Hail Joseph, temple of the Holy Ghost.

Hail Joseph, beloved of the Holy Trinity.

Hail Joseph, most faithful helper in the great plan of Redemption.

Hail Joseph, most worthy spouse of the Virgin Mother.

Hail Joseph, father of all the faithful.

Hail Joseph, guardian of holy virgins.

Hail Joseph, greatest lover of poverty.

Hail Joseph, example of meekness and patience.

Hail Joseph, mirror of humility and obedience.

Blessed art thou among all men.

And blessed are thine eyes, which have seen what thou hast seen.

And blessed are thine ears, which have hears what thou hast heard.

And blessed are thy hands, which have touched the Word Incarnate.

And blessed are thine arms, which have carried the One Who carries all things.

And blessed is thy breast, on which the Son of God most sweetly reposed.

And blessed is thy heart, kindled with most ardent love.

And blessed be the Eternal Father, Who chose thee.

And blessed be the Son, Who loved thee.

And blessed be the Holy Ghost, Who sanctified thee.

And blessed be Mary, thy spouse, who loved thee as a spouse and a brother.

And blessed be the Angel who guarded thee.

And blessed be forever all who bless thee and who love thee.

PRAYER FOR A LIVELY FAITH

GLORIOUS PATRIARCH ST. JOSEPH, obtain for me this beautiful and precious virtue. Increase in me a lively faith, the foundation of all sanctity, that faith without which no one can be pleasing to God.

Obtain for me that faith which triumphs over all temptations of the world. A faith which can be shaken by nothing, and which is directed solely toward God. Cause me, after thy example, to live by faith, and to subject my heart and understanding to God, that one day I may behold in Heaven what I now firmly believe on earth. Amen.

 Isidore of Isolanis, a pious Dominican of the 16th century, prophesied that “the victory bell will be heard when the faithful recognize the sanctity of St. Joseph.”

SEVEN OUR FATHERS

In honor of the Seven Sorrows and Seven Joys of St. Joseph, devoutly pray for the dying seven Our Fathers, Hail Marys, and Glory be’s.

PRAYER FOR PRIESTS

O ILLUSTRIOUS PATRIARCH St. Joseph, who carried the Infant Jesus in thy blessed arms and who, during the space of thirty years, lived in the most intimate familiarity with Him, take under thy powerful protection those whom He has clothed with His authority and honored with with the dignity of His priesthood, whom He has charged to continue His mission, to preach His Gospel, and to dispense everywhere His graces and blessings. Sustain them in their fatigues and labors; console them in their pains; fortify them in their combats; but above all, keep far from them all the evils of sin.

Obtain for them the humility of St. John the Baptist, the faith of St. Peter, the zeal and charity of St. Paul, the purity of St. John and the spirit of prayer and recollection of which thou, my dear Saint, art the model, so that, after having been on earth, the faithful dispensers of the Mysteries of thy foster Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, they may in Heaven receive the recompense promised to pastors according to the Heart of God. Amen.

Prayer of confidence in St. Joseph

With childlike confidence I present myself before thee, Oh holy Joseph, faithful foster father of Jesus! I beg thy compassionate intercession and support in this, my present necessity. [Name your petition.]I firmly believe that thou art most powerful near the throne of God, who chose thee for the foster father of his well-beloved son, Jesus Christ. Oh blessed Saint, who saved that treasure of heaven, with his virginal mother, from the fury of his enemies, who with untiring industry supplied his earthly wants and with paternal care accompanied and protected him in all the journeys of his childhood, take me also, for the love of Jesus, as thy child. Assist me in my present difficulty with thy prayers before God. The infinite goodness of our savior,who loved and honored thee as his father upon earth, cannot refuse thee any request now in heaven.

How many pious souls have sought help, from thee in their needs and have experienced, to their joy, how good, how ready thou art to assist. How quickly thou dost turn to those who call upon thee with confidence! How powerful thou art in bringing help and restoring joy to anxious and dejected hearts! Therefore, do I fly to thee, Oh most worthy father of Jesus, most chaste spouse of Mary! Good St. Joseph, I pray thee by the burning love thou hadst for Jesus and Mary upon earth, console me in my distress and present my petition, through Jesus and Mary, before the throne of God! One word from thee will move him to assist my afflicted soul. Then most joyfully shall I praise him and thee, and more earnest shall be my thanksgiving!
Amen.

PRAYER FOR THE CHURCH AND THE HOLY FATHER

 MOST POWERFUL Patriarch St. Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church, which has always invoked thee in anxiety and trouble, from the exalted seat of thy glory cast a loving glance upon the whole Catholic world. let thy fatherly heart be touched at the sight of the Mystical Spouse and the Vicar of Christ overwhelmed with sorrow and persecuted by powerful enemies. Oh, by the bitter anguish thou didst experience upon earth, dry the tears of the venerable Pontiff, defend him, comfort him, intercede for him with the Giver of peace and charity, that, all adversity being removed and all error dissipated, the entire Church may serve God in perfect liberty. Amen.

HOLY FAMILY PRAYER

O JESUS, only begotten Son of the Eternal Father, well beloved Son of the Blessed Virgin and foster Child of St. Joseph, we most fervently implore Thee, through Mary Thine ever blessed Mother and St. Joseph Thy foster father, take our children under Thy special charge and enclose them in the love of Thy Sacred Heart. They are the children of Thy Father in Heaven, created after His own image; they are Thy possession, for Thou hast purchased them with Thy Precious Blood; they are temples of the Holy Ghost, Who sanctified them in Baptism and implanted in their hearts the virtues of faith, hope and charity.

O most loving Jesus, rule and guide them, that they may live according to the holy Catholic Faith, that they may never waver in their confidence in Thee and that they may ever remain faithful to Thy love.

O Mary, Blessed Mother of Jesus, grant to our children, a place in thy maternal heart! Spread over them thy protecting mantle when danger threatens their innocence; keep them firm when they are about to stray from the path of virtue; and should they have the misfortune of falling into m mortal sin, oh, then raise them up again, reconcile them with thy Divine Son and restore them to Sanctifying Grace.

And thou, O holy foster father St. Joseph, do not abandon our children! Protect them from the assaults of the wicked enemy and deliver them from all dangers of soul and body.

O dear parents of the Holy Child Jesus! Intercede for us parents also, that we may bring up our children in the love and fear of God and one day attain with them the Beatific Vision. Amen.

ACT OF CONSECRATION TO ST. JOSEPH

O DEAREST St. Joseph, I consecrate myself to thy honor and give myself to thee, that thou mayest always be my father, my protector and my guide in the way of salvation. Obtain for me a great purity of heart and a fervent love of the interior life. After thine example, may I do all my actions for the greater glory of God, in union with the Divine Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary! And do thou, O blessed St. Joseph, pray for me that I may share in the peace and joy of thy holy death. Amen.

ANOTHER ACT OF CONSECRATION TO ST. JOSEPH

O BLESSED JOSEPH, foster father of my Savior and chaste spouse of the mother of God, this day I irrevocably adopt thee for my intercessor with the Almighty as well as my model, my protector and my father in this valley of exile. O St. Joseph, whom the Lord constituted guardian of His Family, I beseech thee to extender thy tender solicitude over all my interests. Kindle in my heart a vehement love for Jesus and enable me to serve Him with all thy devotedness and fidelity. Aid my inability to venerate Mary as my advocate, to honor her as my Queen and to love her as my Mother. Be my never-failing guide in the way of virtue and piety, and grant that, after having faithfully followed thee in the path of justice, I may receive thy powerful protection at the hour of my death. Amen.

THE PRACTICE OF THE NINE FIRST WEDNESDAYS

A Devotion Promulgated by the Pious Union of St. Joseph

Every Wednesday is dedicated in a special way to St. Joseph. Make the Nine First Wednesdays (in a manner similar to the Nine First Fridays of the Sacred Heart) in honor of St. Joseph for a happy death, for yourself and your dear ones. As charity is one of the best ways to be worthy of the grace of a happy death, offer your First Wednesday Mass and Communion and devotions in honor of St. Joseph in a special way for the salvation of the dying, most especially for an undying sinner who is to lose his soul without the grace of final repentance.

Our Lord permits St. Joseph to take from His Divine treasury with full hands in order to give souls the treasures of Divine grace and mercy, like Joseph, the son of Jacob, who took corn from the granaries of the King of Egypt to feed his brethren and all who had recourse to him. From the heights of Heaven, the King of Glory speaks to us the same words as Pharao spoke to the starving people of Egypt: “Go to Joseph.”

THE GO TO JOSEPH PRAYER

I

IN the miseries of this vale of tears, to whom shall we have recourse, O blessed Joseph, if not to thee, to whom thy beloved spouse Mary entrusted all her rich treasures, that thou might keep them to our advantage? “go to my spouse, Joseph,” Mary seems to say to us, “and he will comfort you, he will deliver you from the misfortunes which now oppress you and will make you happy and contented” Have pity on us, therefore, O St. Joseph; have pity on us through that love which thou didst cherish toward a spouse so worthy and amiable.

Our Father . . . Hail Mary . . . Glory Be . . .

II

We are fully conscious that we have offended the justice of God by our sins and deserve His most severe chastisements. Not what shall be our place of refuge? “go to Joseph,” Jesus seems to say to us; “Go to Joseph, in whom I was well pleased and whom I had for My foster father. To him, as to a father, I have communicated all power, that he may use it for your good according to his own desire.” Pity us, therefore, O blessed Joseph, pity us, for the great love thou didst bear toward a Son so admirable and so dear.

Our Father . . . Hail Mary . . . Glory Be . . .

III

Unhappily the sins we have committed call down upon the heaviest scourges: this we must confess. In what ark shall we take refuge in order to be saved? Where shall we find the blessed rainbow that shall give us comfort and hope in the midst of our afflictions? “Go to Joseph,” the Eternal father seems to say to us: “Go to him who took My place on earth with regard to My Son made man. I entrusted to his keeping My Son, who is the unfailing source of grace; therefore, every grace is in his hands.” Pity us, then, dear St. Joseph, pity us by thy great love for Almighty God, Who has been so generous to thee.

Our Father . . . Hail Mary . . . Glory Be . . .

LITANY TO ST. JOSEPH FOR A DYING PERSON

[For private use only.]

Lord have mercy on us.

Christ have mercy on us.

Lord have mercy on us. Christ, hear us.

Christ, graciously hear us.

God, the Father of Heaven, have mercy on us.

God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us.

God the Holy Ghost, etc.

Holy Trinity, one God,

St. Joseph, foster father of Christ, we beseech thee, hear us.

St. Joseph, patron of the dying, we beseech thee, hear us.

Obtain for him (her) forgiveness of his (her) sins, we beseech thee, hear us.

Obtain for him (her) great patience, we beseech thee, hear us.

Obtain for him (her) a perfect resignation, we beseech thee, hear us.

Obtain for him (her) a living and unshaken faith, we beseech thee, hear us.

Obtain for him (her) a firm confidence, we beseech thee, hear us.

Obtain for him (her) ardent charity, we beseech thee, hear us.

Avert from him the attacks of the enemy, we beseech thee, hear us.

Protect him from the temptations that assail him, we beseech thee, hear us.

Preserve him from despondency and despair, we beseech thee, hear us.

Obtain for him the grace of Jesus Christ, we beseech thee, hear us.

Assist him and do not abandon him, we beseech thee, hear us.

Come to his aid in his weakness, we beseech thee, hear us.

Assist him in his abandonment, we beseech thee, hear us.

Obtain for him a happy death, we beseech thee, hear us.

Obtain for him a merciful judgment, we beseech thee, hear us.

Conduct his soul to the vision of Jesus, there to obtain mercy for him. Amen.

PRAYER TO SAINT JOSEPH TO OBTAIN THE I GRACE OF A HAPPY DEATH

O Great Saint Joseph, who art the model, the patron, and the consoler of the dying, I beg of thee to-day to grant me thy protection in the last hour of my life, for that terrible moment when I do not know if I shall have strength to call thee to my aid. I beseech thee to obtain for me that I may die the death of the just. But, in order that I may hope for so great a grace, obtain for me that I may live as thou hast done in the presence of JESUS and Mary, and that I may never afflict their eyes by hideous spots of sin. From this moment may I die to myself, to my passions and earthly desires, to all which is not GOD, in order to live solely for Him Who died for me. JESUS, Mary, Joseph, I make these resolutions under your auspices, and with the hope of your aid. Be propitious to me now, and at the hour of my death, and grant that I may die in uttering your sweet names. Amen.

————————

Pius VII., the Sovereign Pontiff, in his decree of April 28th, 1807, accords a perpetual indulgence of three hundred days to whoever recites, with a contrite heart, the three ejaculations which follow. If only one is recited, he accords one hundred days of indulgence, applicable in both cases to the souls of the faithful departed:

JESUS, Mary, Joseph, I give you my heart and my soul!
JESUS, Mary, Joseph, assist me in my last agony!
JESUS, Mary, Joseph, let my soul send forth her last sigh in peace, with you to aid me!

ANOTHER PRAYER FOR A HAPPY DEATH

O BLESSED JOSEPH, who yielded up thy last breath in the arms of Jesus and Mary, obtain for me this grace, O holy Joseph, that I may breathe forth my soul in praise, saying in spirit, if I am unable to do so in words: “Jesus, Mary and Joseph, I give Thee my heart and my soul.” Amen.

A SHORT PRAYER FOR THE DYING

The Special Prayer of the Pious Union of St. Joseph

O St. JOSEPH, foster father of the Child Jesus and true spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, pray for us and for the dying of this day (or this night). Amen.

PRAYER FOR THE AGONIZING

O St. JOSEPH, protector of those in agony, take pity on those who at this very moment when I pray to thee are engaged in their last combat.

O blessed Joseph, take pity on my soul too when the hour of the final battle shall arrive for me. Then, O my holy patron, do not abandon me, but grant me thine assistance; show that thou art my good father, and obtain that my Divine Savior may receive me with mercy into that abode where the elect enjoy a life that shall never end. Amen.

PRAYER FOR THE SOULS IN THE AGONY OF DEATH

ETERNAL Father, by the love Thou bearest toward St. Joseph, who was chosen by Thee from among all men to exercise Thy divine fatherhood over the Thy Son made Man, have mercy on us and upon all poor souls who are in their agony.

Our Father . . . Hail Mary . . . Glory Be . . .

ETERNAL Son of God, by the love Thou bearest toward St. Joseph, who was Thy most faithful guardian upon earth, have mercy on us and upon all poor souls who are in their agony.

Our Father . . . Hail Mary . . . Glory Be . . .

ETERNAL Spirit of God, by the love Thou bearest toward St. Joseph, who guarded with such tender care most holy Mary, Thy beloved spouse, have mercy on us and upon all poor souls who are in their agony.

Our Father . . . Hail Mary . . . Glory Be . . .

JESUS, MARY AND JOSEPH

JESUS, Mary and Joseph, I give Thee my heart and my soul.

Jesus, Mary and Joseph, assist me in my last agony.

Jesus, Mary and Joseph, may I breathe forth my soul in peace with thee.

THE CHAPLET OF ST. JOSEPH

This chaplet is divided into fifteen groups of four beads consisting of one white and three purple beads. The white bead symbolizes St. Joseph’s purity, and the purple his Saintly piety. A mystery of the Rosary is considered on each white bead, and two Hail Marys are said. On the purple beads say:

Praised and blessed be Jesus, Mary and Joseph!

End the chaplet with the following prayer:

1. Pray for us, O holy St. Joseph!
2. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ!

Let us pray

O God, Who has predestined St. Joseph from all eternity for the service of Thine Eternal Son and His Blessed Mother, and made him worthy to be the spouse of this Blessed Virgin and the foster father of Thy Son: we beseech Thee, through all the services he has rendered to Jesus and Mary on earth, that Thou wouldst make us worthy of his intercession and grant us to enjoy the happiness of his company in Heaven. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

THE CORD OF ST. JOSEPH

The devotion to the Cord of St. Joseph took its rise in the town of Antwerp, Belgium, in 1637, in consequence of a miraculous cure effected by the wearing of this precious girdle. At that time there lived there an Augustinian nun of great piety, named Sr. Elizabeth, who had suffered for three years excruciating pains occasioned by a cruel distemper. She had reached such a stage that the doctors, seeing no possible recourse, declared her death to be inevitable and imminent. Sr. Elizabeth turned to Heaven, and having always been particularly devoted to St. Joseph, she asked him to intercede to Our Lord for her recovery. At the same time she had a cord blessed in the Saint’s honor, girded herself with it, a few days after, as she prayed before st. Joseph’s image, she felt herself suddenly free of the pain. Those who were acquainted with her illness declared her recovery miraculous; an act of authenticity was drawn up with a public notary and the doctor, who happened to be a Protestant, concurred. The miracle was recorded and published at Verona and Rome between 1810-42. During the month of March of the latter year, the Devotion to the Cord came into existence. Cords were blessed in the Church of St. Nicholas, Verona, for hospital patients.

The chapel in the church is dedicated to St. Joseph. Numerous special graces were obtained and the devotion spread to France, all parts of Italy and even to America and Asia. The cord was invoked, not merely as a remedy against physical ailments, but also as a preservative of the virtue of purity.

The Bishop of Verona became aware of the necessity of addressing a supplication to the Congregation of Rites, which he did by letter on January 14, 1859. After a mature examination the Sacred Congregation, in accordance with the request, approved on September 19 of that year, the new formula of blessing and permitted its solemn and private use. Finally the Bishop obtained for the Association of the Cord the privilege of being declared ‘primarie,” and at the same time His Holiness, Pope Pius IX enriched it with special indulgences.

GRACES ATTACHED TO THE WEARING OF THE CORD

Graces precious to the piety of St. Joseph’s servants are attached to the wearing of this cord. They are:

1. St. Joseph’s special protection;
2. Purity of soul;
3. The grace of chastity;
4. Final perseverance;
5. Particular assistance at the hour of death.

NATURE OF THE CORD AND THE MANNER OF WEARING IT

The Cord of St. Joseph should be of thread or cotton, ending at one extremity in seven knots, indicative of the Seven Joys and Sorrows of St. Joseph. It is worn as a girdle for purity or chastity and humility and around the shoulders for obedience. It ought to be blessed by a priest with the faculties for this blessing. Pius IX approved a special formula for the blessing of the cord of St. Joseph. [See a copy 1964 Roman Ritual].

WHEN YOU RECEIVE YOUR CORD, IT WILL BE A LONG CORD WITH A KNOT AT EACH END.

AT ONE END YOU WILL NEED TO MAKE 6 KNOTS TO ADD TO THE ONE ALREADY THERE. THIS IS THE PART OF THE CORD THAT HANGS FREE AFTER TYING ABOUT THE WAIST OR SHOULDER.

If your St. Joseph’s Cord comes with only two knots, one at each end, then you should tie the other 5 into it. When you get your Cord, it must be blessed by a priest (see below), and then worn around the waist. One who wears the St. Joseph’s Cord is to daily say a Gloria on each of the 7 knots, in honor of and while meditating on each of the 7 Sorrows of St. Joseph, and a prayer to St. Joseph for purity. These prayers are:

Gloria

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

Latin Version:
Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto. Sicut erat in principio, et nunc, et semper, et in saecula saeculorum. Amen.

Prayer to St. Joseph for Purity

Guardian of virgins, and holy father Joseph, to whose faithful custody Christ Jesus, Innocence itself, and Mary, Virgin of virgins, were committed; I pray and beseech thee, by these dear pledges, Jesus and Mary, that, being preserved from all uncleanness, I may with spotless mind, pure heart, and chaste body, ever serve Jesus and Mary most chastely all the days of my life. Amen.

Latin version:
Virginum custos et pater, sancte Ioseph, cuius fideli custodiae ipsa Innocentia Christus Iesus et Virgo virginum Maria commissa fuit; te per hoc utrumque carissimum pignus Iesum et Mariam obsecro et obtestor, ut me, ab omni immunditia praeservatum, mente incontaminata, puro corde et casto corpore Iesu et Mariae semper facias castissime famulari. Amen.

CONDITIONS FOR GAINING THE INDULGENCES

1. Be truly contrite, confess and communicate the day of investiture or wearing it for the first time.
2. If possible visit the church of the Association or an other oratory, if not, and to pray for peace between Christian princes or rulers, the extirpation of heresies, and the exaltation of Holy Mother Church.
3. Must be affiliated with the Church of San Rocco at Rome. We do not know how binding this is for Americans or how to contact them. We have provided a link to the Company that distributes the Cord in the U.S. Someone one there may know how to contact that church.

All the indulgences are applicable to the Holy Souls.

THE PRAYERS AND SPECIAL INDULGENCES OF THE CORD OF ST. JOSEPH

RECITE DAILY SEVEN TIMES THE GLORY BE, TOGETHER WITH THE FOLLOWING PRAYER, WHICH IS THE PRAYER FOR PURITY

O GUARDIAN of Virgins and holy Father St. Joseph, into whose faithful keeping were entrusted Christ Jesus, Innocence Itself, and Mary, Virgin of virgins, I pray and beseech thee by these dear pledges, Jesus and Mary, that, being preserved from all uncleanness, I may with spotless mind, pure heart and chaste body, ever serve Jesus and Mary most chastely all the days of my life. Amen.

YOU ARE ALSO ENCOURAGED TO MEDITATE ON THE SEVEN SORROWS AND JOYS, ADDING AN OUR FATHER, HAIL MARY, AND GLORY BE AFTER EACH MEDITATION .

The Cord itself is simply a white cord of thread or cotton, knotted in 7 places — one knot for each of the 7 Sorrows of St. Joseph and their related Joys, they being:

• The doubt of Saint Joseph (Matthew 1:19) and the Message of the Angel (Matthew 1:20)
• The poverty of Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:7) and the Birth itself (Luke 2:7)
• The Circumcision (Luke 2:21) and the Holy Name of Jesus (Matthew 1:25)
• The prophecy of Simeon that many would be lost (Luke 2:34) and his prophecy that many would rise (Luke 2:34)
• The flight into Egypt (Matthew 2:14) and the Overthrow of idols (Isaias 19:1
• The return from Egypt (Matthew 2:22) and Life with Mary and Jesus (Luke 2:39)
• The loss of the Child Jesus (Luke 2:45) and Finding Jesus in the Temple (Luke 2:46)

PLENARY INDULGENCES ATTACHED TO THE CORD

1. On the day of entrance into the Association.
2. On the day of the Feast of the Espousals of the Blessed Virgin and St. Joseph [Jan. 23].
3. On the 19th of March, the Feast of St. Joseph, and on one of the seven days which immediately follow.
4. On the Feast of the Patronage of St. Joseph [3rd Sunday after Easter].
5. Upon death for members of the Association who are truly penitent, have confessed their sins and received Holy viaticum; or not being able to do, having invoked by mouth or in the heart, the Name of Jesus.

Priest’s Blessing of a Cincture