ANNUNCIATION TO ST. JOSEPH
Chaste Lover of Mary, how overwhelmed you were when you thought that you would have to end your bethrotal to her. But when the angel of God came to you in a dream, you were filled with awe to realize that Mary would be your wife, and you would be the Guardian of the Messiah.
Help us, St. Joseph, our families and all our loved ones to overcome all sadness of heart and develop an absolute trust in God’s goodness.
BIRTH OF THE CHILD JESUS
Faithful guardian of Jesus, what a failure you thought you were when you could only provide a stable for the birth of the Holy Child. And then what a wonder it was when shepherd came to tell of angel choirs, and wise men came to adore the King of kings.
Through your example and prayers, help us St. Joseph and all we love to become like sinless mangers where the Savior of the world may be received with absolute love and respect.
CIRCUMCISION OF JESUS IN THE TEMPLE
Tender-hearted Joseph, you too felt pain when the blood of Jesus was first shed at His circumcision. Yet how proud you were to be the one privileged to give the name Jesus, Savior, to the very Son of God.
Pray for us, St. Joseph, that the sacred blood of Christ, poured out for our salvation, may guard our families, so the Divine Name of Jesus may be written in our hearts forever.
PRESENTATION OF JESUS IN THE TEMPLE
Joseph, loving husband, how bewildered you were when Simeon spoke the words of warning that the hearts of Jesus and Mary would be pierced with sorrows. Yet his prediction that this would lead to the salvation of innumerable souls filled you with great consolation.
Help us, St. Joseph, to see with eyes of faith that even the sorrows and pains of those we deeply love can become the pathway to salvation and eternal life.
FLIGHT INTO EGYPT
Courageous protector of the Holy Family, how terrified you were when you had to make the sudden flight with Jesus and Mary to escape the treachery of King Herod and the cruelty of his soldiers. But when you reached Egypt, what satisfaction you had in knowing that the Savior of the world had come to replace the pagan idols.
Teach us by your example. St. Joseph, to keep far from the false idols of earthly attractions, so that like you, we may be entirely devoted to the service of Jesus and Mary.
RETURN TO NAZARETH
Ever-obedient Joseph, you trustingly returned to Nazareth at God’s command, in spite of your fear that King Herod’s son might still be a threat to Jesus’ life. Then what fatherly pride you had in seeing Jesus grow in wisdom and grace before God and men under your care.
Show us, St. Joseph, how to be free from all useless fear and worry, so we may enjoy the peace of a tranquil conscience, living safely with Jesus and Mary in our hearts.
LOSS & FINDING OF THE JESUS IN THE TEMPLE
Dependable father and husband, how anguished you and Mary were when you searched for three days to find Jesus, lost through no fault of your own. What incredible relief was yours when you found Him safe in the Temple of God.
Help us, St. Joseph, never to lose Jesus through the fault of our own sins. But if we should lose him, lead us back with unwearied sorrow, until we find him again; so that we, like you, may finally pass from this life, dying safely in the arms of Jesus and Mary.
