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Forty Days with Saint

A Preparation Guide for Consecration to

1 Why a Consecration to Saint Joseph?

On December 8, 2021, announced that the upcoming year would be dedicated to Saint Joseph, celebrating the 150th anniversary of the proclamation of Saint Joseph as Patron of the Universal . The Holy Father said the aim of our reflection on Saint Joseph this year is “to increase our love for this great saint, to encourage us to implore his intercession and to imitate his virtues and his zeal”.1

During the celebration of , the minister, godparents, and the gathered Christian community implore the intercession of Saint Joseph along with Holy Mary, Mother of during the Litany of the Saints. From the very beginnings of our Christian life, the Church recognizes that Saint Joseph has a special role in supporting us as we follow .

The purpose of this consecration to Saint Joseph is to reaffirm our commitment to living out the divine consecration we received at our Baptism. We renew the request made to Saint Joseph in the Rite of Baptism for his spiritual support as we live out our Baptismal promises. Throughout his earthly life, Saint Joseph dedicated himself to Jesus and his redemptive mission. Our consecration to Saint Joseph is a way of asking him to teach us how to dedicate ourselves more wholeheartedly to Jesus and his mission in the world today.

We cannot persevere in the Christian life and our Christian mission alone. We need the support of a community, including the heavenly Communion of Saints. Our consecration to Saint Joseph is a way of deepening our relationship with him, inviting him to accompany us in our Christian journey, and allowing him to lead us closer to the child he protected and raised, Jesus.

We have many needs and concerns right now. We unite our voices together over the next 40 days, trusting that Saint Joseph will indeed intercede for us as we consecrate our lives to him. Through our union in prayer over these special days, we pray to grow deeper as a Christian community. May our consecration to Saint Joseph lead to many abundant graces for each of us!

1 Patris Corde #7.

2 Practical Details:

In order to prepare for your consecration to Saint Joseph, please read the daily reflection and pray one of the prayers below of your own choosing. If you miss a day, simply read the missed reflection the next day. Acts of prayer/charity are suggested for each day, but you can be creative and apply the suggestions to your own situation. Obviously, some suggestions might need to be modified because of COVID-19 restrictions.

Prayers to Saint Joseph: Please pray one of these prayers after reading the daily meditation.

Prayer to Saint Joseph (by Saint Teresa of Calcutta): O Glorious St. Joseph, we most humbly beg of you, by the love and care you had for Jesus and Mary, to take our affairs, spiritual and temporal, into your hands. Direct them to the greater glory of God, and obtain for us the grace to do His holy Will. Amen.

Prayer to Saint Joseph (by Saint John XXIII, 1961): O Saint Joseph, Protector of the Universal Church. Be always our protector. May your interior spirit of , of silence, of good work, and of prayer, enliven us always to serve the Holy Church. Bring us joy in union with your Blessed Spouse, our dearest Immaculate Mother, in the tender love of Jesus, the glorious and immortal, King of all ages and peoples. Amen.

A Prayer to Saint Joseph (prayed daily by Pope Francis): Glorious Patriarch Saint Joseph, whose power makes the impossible possible, come to my aid in these times of anguish and difficulty. Take under your protection the serious and troubling situations that I commend to you, that they may have a happy outcome. My beloved father, all my trust is in you. Let it not be said that I invoked you in vain, and since you can do everything with Jesus and Mary, show me that your goodness is as great as your power. Amen.

3 A Prayer to Saint Joseph (by Saint John XXIII, 1959): O glorious Saint Joseph, you veiled your incomparable regal dignity as guardian of Jesus and of the Virgin Mary under the appearance of a humble carpenter and sustained their lives with your work. Protect with loving power the children who entrust themselves to you. You know the anguish and the sufferings of workers because you experienced them yourself during your life, with Jesus and his Mother at your side. Do not permit workers, oppressed by many worries, to forget the reason for which God created them. Do not let seeds of doubt enslave their immortal souls. Remember all workers, that they might not just work, rejoice, and suffer, but might have Jesus with Mary his Mother and ours beside them to sustain them, to wipe away their sweat, and to assist them in their fatigue. Teach them to do their work, as You have done, embracing it as a path to sanctification. Amen.

Prayer for a Happy Death (by St. Alphonsus Ligouri): Saint Joseph, by that assistance which Jesus and Mary gave you at death, I beg of you to protect me in a special way, at the hour of my death, so that dying, assisted by you, in the company of Jesus and Mary, I may go to thank you in , and in your company, to sing God's Praises for all Eternity. So I Hope. So may it be. Amen. Patron of the dying, pray for us.

Prayer: To you, O blessed Joseph (by Pope Leo XXIII) To you, O blessed Joseph, do we come in our afflictions, and having implored the help of your most holy Spouse, we confidently invoke your patronage also. Through that charity which bound you to the Immaculate Virgin Mother of God and through the paternal love with which you embraced the Child Jesus, we humbly beg you graciously to regard the inheritance which Jesus Christ has purchased by his Blood, and with your power and strength to aid us in our necessities. O most watchful guardian of the , defend the chosen children of Jesus Christ; O most loving father, ward off from us every contagion of error and corrupting influence; O our most mighty protector, be kind to us and from heaven assist us in our struggle with the power of darkness. As once you rescued the Child Jesus from deadly peril, so now protect God’s Holy Church from the snares of the enemy and from all adversity; shield, too, each one of us by your constant protection, so that, supported by your example and your aid, we may be able to live piously, to die in holiness, and to obtain eternal happiness in heaven. Amen.

4 A Prayer to Saint Joseph Before Mass (prayed daily by Saint John Paul II): O happy man, Saint Joseph, to you it was given to see and hear the God whom many kings longed to see but did not see, and longed to hear but did not hear. Not only that, but you were privileged even to bear God in your hands, to him, to dress him, and to watch over him. Pray for us, Saint Joseph. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. Let us pray. O God, who has given us a royal priesthood: You found Blessed Joseph worthy to hold your only Son, born of the Virgin Mary, reverently in his hands and to carry him. Enable us, too, to serve at your holy with pure hearts and innocent lives, so that today we may receive worthily the most holy Body and Blood of your Son, and may be found worthy of an everlasting reward in the . Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

San José con el Niño dormido (detail) by Francisco Camilo

5 Daily Meditations:

Day 1: The of Matthew traces Joseph’s family roots back to (:1). God asked Abraham to leave behind everything that was known and familiar to him and set out on a journey into the unknown. God did not reveal the ultimate destination of the journey to Abraham. Yet, Abraham still stepped forward in faith and trusted that God would show him what to do at each crucial point along the way. Joseph demonstrated similar faith during his life. While not knowing all the details of God’s plan for his future, he still stepped forward in faith to do what he understood God was asking of him in each particular moment. We can easily be frustrated when our future is uncertain. The faith of Abraham and Joseph teach us to take the next step in our journey, trusting that God will take care of us along the way.

Pray today for the grace to trust in God’s plan for your future, especially in areas of your life that currently involve much uncertainty.

Day 2: Saint Joseph was a man of silence. The record none of his words, showing us that listening and acting are oftentimes more important than speaking. Throughout his life, Saint Joseph listened attentively to God’s direction. Not just the special inspirations he received, but also the words of Sacred Scripture proclaimed at the local synagogue. After listening, Joseph did not procrastinate. He acted on what he had heard.

Spend 10 minutes today in silence. For example: read the at home, reflect in a quiet church, or go about your normal routine with radio, TV, and music turned off.

Day 3: Not only did Saint Joseph listen attentively to God, he also listened attentively to other people. His willingness to listen to Mary his wife bore great fruit in his life. Even though he did not always fully understand what she said, her perspective helped deepen his understanding of God’s plan over time. Listening to her helped him continually make Jesus a priority in his life.

Spend 10 minutes today giving someone your undivided attention. Simply listen, trying to understand their perspective.

Day 4: Saint Joseph found out that the woman betrothed to him had conceived a child. Joseph, “since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly” (Matthew 1:19). Over the centuries, biblical scholars have given many explanations for Joseph’s decision to end his relationship with Mary. Some suggest he was suspicious of infidelity. Others think he was so confused and overwhelmed that exiting the scene seemed

6 the best course of action. Others conclude that Joseph believed from the beginning that the child was conceived by the power of the and felt unworthy to be so close to God’s presence and participate so intimately in God’s plan of salvation. Thankfully, Joseph was willing to reconsider his panicked judgement and was open to changing his decision. He shows us how to let go of our stubbornness and be open to God’s unexpected work in our lives.

Be quick to ask for the advice of other people today and to listen to opinions that are different than your own.

Day 5: Letting go of our preferences for the future is quite difficult. Our attempts to hang tightly onto our own plans lead to some of our most aggressive and selfish actions. We blind ourselves to God’s plan when we try to control our future and push others into conformity with our plans at all costs. Saint Joseph can teach us how to know when to let go of our own plans and accept a future that will look different than we had anticipated. Welcoming a child that was not his own into his marriage was certainly not his plan when he first agreed to wed Mary. Neither was travelling to because of a government mandate when his wife was ready to deliver a child. Neither was moving to to escape the aggression of a violent leader. Yet, Joseph did not sulk. He gracefully let go of his plans, trusted in God’s providence, and so contributed to the redemption of the world.

Give up worrying today. When tempted to worry, ask Saint Joseph to help you trust in God’s providence for your future.

Day 6: God gave Saint Joseph the role of nurturing and supporting the special mission of Mary his wife and Jesus her divine child. Their extraordinary vocations unfolded under his watchful protection. Each one of us has received a call from God in our own lives. We can count on Saint Joseph’s support as we try to answer God’s call and live out our unique vocation.

Do something to show support for , religious sisters and brothers, or those in formation for Holy Orders or Consecrated Life.

Day 7: In certain moments, Saint Joseph would have been tempted to feel like a failure. Consider how in Bethlehem his heart must have ached when no room at the local inn meant his very exhausted wife would be sleeping in a stable for animals. She gave birth to the there. The best crib the carpenter could provide was a rough food trough, usually used by animals. Joseph had to be frustrated and disappointed that he could not do better for them. He wished things could be different. Yet, as a man of faith, Joseph did not allow self-pity to consume him and distract him from God’s presence in his midst. Joseph focused on serving his wife and attending to Jesus’ needs. That is the proper focus when we are frustrated and

7 feel we have let others down and failed them. To focus on Jesus’ presence. To continue making attempts to serve others.

Say a prayer today or do something to help those struggling with feelings of failure, especially the homeless, the unemployed, those struggling with addictions, or the imprisoned.

Day 8: In Bethlehem, Saint Joseph had the privilege of holding in his arms the Son of God. Embracing the living presence of the eternal Son of God in flesh and blood was a gift that went beyond the imaginings of the holy patriarchs, kings, and of the . Saint Joseph cherished the opportunities he had to be close to the Son of God, not just in Bethlehem, but throughout his life. At the same time, he was also very attentive to the practical needs of his family. The same privilege is given to us, as we encounter the Son of God in flesh and blood in the Holy . Saint Joseph can teach us how to find time for the practical needs of our daily lives, while also never taking for granted the gift of the Eucharist and making time for regular participation in the Mass.

Arrive at Mass a few minutes early this weekend to prepare thoughtfully for the privilege of receiving Holy Communion.

Day 9: Mary only had swaddling clothes, humble strips of cloth we would call “rags”, to clothe her newborn son (:7). While Joseph and Mary could not wrap Jesus in the type of suitable material clothing they would have liked, they embraced him with great love and tenderness. While not financially wealthy, they provided their child with a home that was rich in charity, care, and attention. Their unity and faithfulness to each other as a couple provided their son a childhood of joy and peace, even though the circumstances of his birth and early childhood were neither ideal nor glamorous.

Say a prayer for married couples, especially those struggling financially.

Day 10: were not considered highly esteemed members of society at the time of Jesus’ birth. They were outside the peripheries of typical social circles, living in the fields with their flocks. Yet, despite their scruffy reputation and appearance, they were welcomed into the cave at Bethlehem by Joseph and Mary (Luke 2:16). This holy couple, exhausted from the journey to Bethlehem and caring for a newborn in very imperfect circumstances, exercised hospitality towards the shepherds who God had invited to visit the newborn King. Their hospitality opened up space for their guests to encounter the divine and to glorify God.

Make plans to provide hospitality sometime in the near future. Perhaps inviting a neighbor over for a meal, introducing yourself to someone you don’t know at Mass, or sending a care package to someone who is isolated and without many opportunities to socialize.

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Day 11: visited Jesus in Bethlehem and offered him gifts of , , and (:1-12). Jesus’ parents accepted these unique offerings and these unexpected visitors. Joseph and Mary’s acceptance of their presence and presents gave the magi the opportunity to worship God. In our own lives, accepting gifts from others can often be difficult for us, especially when unexpected. Allowing others to serve us is also hard because it means swallowing our pride, even appearing weak, as others assist us. However, allowing others to serve us can actually be a path to their sanctification, making it possible for them like the Magi to express their love for God through generous giving.

Ask for help today when you need it. Do not be quick to turn down assistance when others attempt to show kindness in unexpected ways.

Day 12: Joseph was a man of faithfulness. He obediently followed God’s commands. Eight days after the birth of the Son of God made flesh, Joseph gave him the provided by the . “Jesus” is a name that means “God saves” (Luke 2:21). Obedience is an acknowledgement that we cannot save ourselves. That only God can save us. That we need to go beyond our own scheming and projects, abilities and talents, desires and preferences, to experience salvation. Joseph understood this and dutifully followed God’s commands. He was obedient even when it was not convenient or easy.

If you haven’t done so recently, find a time to go to Confession in the next month. Ask forgiveness for all you have been disobedient to God’s commandments.

Day 13: Forty days after Jesus’ birth, his parents took him to the Temple and consecrated him to (Luke 2:22-24). This ritual for a first-born was an expression of gratitude for the redemption of the Exodus event, when God’s merciful providence led his people from slavery to the Promised Land. A lamb would typically be offered along with the firstborn, but Joseph and Mary made the offering of two young pigeons, the offering prescribed for the poor. The poverty of Joseph and Mary during the early days of Jesus’ life was real. But, they gave what they could to the Lord. While their offering was small, they offered it with hearts full of love and gratitude to God. The small gifts they offered to God symbolized something much greater. They were offering themselves and their child to the Lord’s service and trusting in the Lord’s care for him.

Go out of your way to make a small act of kindness for someone today. Consciously do this act with gratitude for all God has done for you.

Day 14: In the Temple, Joseph and Mary encountered and Anna (Luke 2:25-38). They were elderly figures who were “prayer warriors”. For many years, they had dedicated themselves

9 to a lifestyle of prayer and fasting. The aged man and woman encouraged Joseph and Mary. They gave thanks to God for the blessing of Jesus’ presence in their midst. Speaking honestly and realistically about Jesus’ future, they helped Mary and Joseph deepen their understanding of his divine mission.

Spend time today in conversation with an elderly person.

Day 15: An unjust government leader issued a mandate that created and endangered the lives of many children, including Jesus (Matthew 2:13-18). Joseph took Mary and Jesus to safety in another country, the land of Egypt. They had been looking forward to going home to and the home prepared for their new baby. Instead, they suffered the plight of refugees and lived among strangers. We can turn to Saint Joseph’s intercession when disappointed, frustrated, and disgusted by how callously some government leaders treat vulnerable human life today.

Say a prayer today for government leaders or write a letter to an elected official, urging legislative protection for innocent human life.

Day 16: The journey to Egypt was not just tiring, but also dangerous. It was exhausting both physically and emotionally. During their travel, Joseph watched over Mary and Jesus. He saw it as his duty to protect them. He did everything possible to keep them safe. Sadly, in our world today there are many vulnerable people who have no one to protect them from harm. There is no one to watch over them and keep them safe. It is our Christian duty to help them as much as we are able.

Make a donation to a charity that protects vulnerable persons or do something to raise awareness of their needs.

Day 17: Life in Egypt would have been lonely for Joseph and Mary. They were hundreds of miles from family, work colleagues, and neighbors. While painfully isolating, Joseph’s extended stay in Egypt allowed him to bond more closely with Mary and Jesus. He put his attention on growing closer to them, rather than wallowing in frustration over his loneliness. He shows us how loneliness can be a space where we go deeper in our relationship with Jesus.

Write, email, or phone someone today who is isolated.

Day 18: does not tell us exactly how long Joseph and Mary stayed in Egypt. They had to wait long enough for a new leader to take over the government. Presumably, they were stuck in Egypt for months or years, waiting to return home. Being patient this long would have been difficult, especially when there was so much unpredictability about their future. It

10 would have been easy for them to feel hopeless as they waited. Though suffering, they continued to put their hope and trust in God’s loving care. During seasons of waiting in our lives, Saint Joseph’s intercession can bolster our hope when it begins to waver. He can lead us to deeper trust in the patient unfolding of God’s plan for our future.

Use moments of waiting (in traffic, at the grocery store, doctor’s office, before meetings, etc.) as opportunities to say a quick prayer to Saint Joseph today.

Day 19: The Bible tells us very little about the life of the Holy Family after returning to Nazareth. of Luke simply states: “The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him” (Luke 2:40). Certainly, Saint Joseph had an extremely influential role in the human growth that took place in Jesus during these years. Parenting and mentoring children is hard work. To do it well requires much energy, attention, and love. Joseph faithfully fulfilled his duties as a parent and made many sacrifices to raise the child entrusted by God to his care.

Write a note of gratitude to a parent, mentor, teacher, or coach who made sacrifices for you as a child. If they are no longer living, visit their gravesite or share your memory of them with someone else.

Day 20: Saint Joseph regularly led his family on to religious sites (Luke 2:41-42). The long walk to for the feast of the in Jerusalem had a particular significance in the life of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. These were a sign of Saint Joseph’s dedication to God. Days of walking alongside other gave him a chance to reflect on his life. To look back on where he had come from. To ponder where God was trying to lead him. To consider his role of encouraging and supporting others on their faith journey. To cooperate more closely with God, allowing God to guide him forward.

Plan a pilgrimage visit to a church in our diocese dedicated to Saint Joseph or make a special visit to the Saint Joseph statue in your parish church. For practical details, visit: https://yearofstjosephtoledo.org/pilgrimage

Day 21: When Jesus was 12 years old, he stayed in Jerusalem at the end of the Passover celebration without his parents knowing (:41-45). They assumed he was in the caravan with other relatives and acquaintances. After a day of looking for him, Joseph and Mary realized that their son was not with them. With great anxiety they returned to Jerusalem to search for him. This scene should be very comforting to us when we make incorrect assumptions within our own relationships and family lives. Joseph and Mary were not omniscient. They did not know everything. While Mary was sinless and Joseph was very holy, there were moments of tension in their relationship. They had to search for resolutions to their problems. They had to acknowledge their limitations. They had to be willing to admit when

11 they needed to go in a different direction than they had been travelling. When we have problems and tension within our families, we should never hesitate going to Joseph and Mary for their heavenly encouragement and guidance.

Say a prayer today for families you know who are dealing with challenging situations and tension in their relationships.

Day 22: The says during days of searching for Jesus in Jerusalem, Joseph and Mary experienced “great anxiety” (Luke 2:48). Determining the whereabouts of their son in a large city packed full of pilgrims was an overwhelming task. When they finally found Jesus, his mother questioned him: “Son, why have you done this to us? Your father and I have been looking for you with great anxiety” (Luke 2:48). At certain moments in our lives, we too face overwhelming tasks that lead to much anxiety. We can find ourselves asking Jesus the same question: “Why have you let this happen?” Joseph and Mary teach us how to speak honestly to Jesus about our anxiety. They also teach us to listen for his response.

Take some time to journal about the anxiety in your life right now. Share your pain with Jesus.

Day 23: Twelve-year-old Jesus responded to his parents’ questioning by explaining that there was a reason he had stayed behind in the Temple. “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” (Luke 2:49). His response was not, at least initially, very helpful to his parents. “They did not understand what he said to them” (Luke 2:50). This situation should be very reassuring to parents and children who struggle to understand each other sometimes. Fully understanding someone’s actions is not a prerequisite to loving them. While constantly seeking to better understand others is important, we must also admit that we will never perfectly understand all the actions of our family members in this life. Joseph did not always fully understand Jesus and his mother. He still made the choice daily to love them and serve them.

Do an act of kindness for a family member whom you struggle to understand.

Day 24: Jesus’ words to Joseph and Mary in the Temple about his heavenly Father (Luke 2:49) are the first words of Jesus recorded in the gospel of Luke. Throughout Jesus’ ministry, his heavenly Father was a consistent theme of his teaching. Jesus’ use of the image of earthly fatherhood to speak about the unseen God in heaven points to a connection between earthly parents and God our heavenly Father. When our earthly parents do their well, we can see in their love, affirmation, support, patience, and a reflection of ’s unconditional love for us. While our earthly parents love is always an imperfect image of God’s love, it gives us a small glimpse into the majesty of God’s unfathomable faithfulness towards us, his beloved children.

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Say a prayer of gratitude for your parents or other parent figures who have shown you unconditional love.

Day 25: The gospel of Luke tells us that Jesus was obedient to his parents at Nazareth (Luke 2:51). As the Son of God, Jesus was far superior to Joseph in wisdom and knowledge. Yet, Jesus chose to be obedient to his earthly father. His obedience demonstrates that our obedience to those God has placed in leadership roles in the Church is not dependent on them having greater wisdom or intelligence than us. The reason we follow the guidance of the pope, the bishops, and our is not because they are necessarily smarter, holier, or more skilled than us. Rather, we are obedient to them because Jesus promised that his Holy Spirit would guide the Church through the imperfect humans chosen for these roles. Obedience is a way of ridding ourselves of pride, as we participate in the obedience of Jesus to God the Father – which brings us salvation.

Pray for the pope, your bishop, and your parish today.

Day 26: All that the gospels tell us about Jesus’ teenage years was that he “advanced in wisdom and age and favor before God and man” (Luke 2:52). The human growth that took place during this phase was certainly influenced by the mentorship of Joseph and Mary. Their ability to navigate this typically tumultuous phase should give hope to parents, teachers, coaches, and all who mentor young adults. We can count on their prayers as we strive to help young people “grow up” and advance in true wisdom.

Do something that will benefit teenagers today.

Day 27: Other than the few scenes in the gospels of Jesus’ childhood, there are very few details of his life until he was about 30 years old and began his public ministry. In other words, what Jesus did during the first 30 years of his life probably appeared very ordinary. His life resembled the humble, simple life his parents lived. While the current climate of social media encourages us to look for recognition, affirmation, attention, and notoriety for everything we do, it seems Joseph, Mary, and Jesus spent most of their lives in relative obscurity. They simply went about their daily tasks, working, praying, socializing, eating, sleeping, etc. Saint Joseph experienced how we can encounter God in the ordinary routine of daily life.

Stop a few times today for about 30 seconds and call to mind that God is present with you as you go about your daily routine.

13 Day 28: In the early pages of the gospels, Joseph is featured along with a small group of other people who were deeply faithful to God. For example, Mary, Zechariah, Elizabeth, Simeon, and Anna. None of these were flashy figures. They did not enjoy great notoriety, but they passionately lived their faith. They participated in community prayer and religious rituals not for show, but out of honest piety and devotion. They were a minority in society. Few others were as deeply committed and genuine in their religious practice. In our times, living the Christian faith with passion is not always convenient. It often requires living up to a higher standard than others in our workplaces. It leads us to sacrifice other opportunities in order to serve the poor, attend Sunday Mass, and stay true to Jesus’ vision for marriage and family life. While there can be days when we feel like a minority in society as we try to put our faith into action, Saint Joseph’s example inspires us to persevere.

Have a conversation today with another person you know who is trying to live their Catholic faith passionately.

Day 29: Saint Joseph is the patron saint of workers. The gospels consistently refer to him as a carpenter. From the first pages of the it is clear that work is a way for humanity to cooperate with God the Creator. When done well, our work can reflect the beauty, the goodness, and the truth that God placed within creation. This was certainly the case with the work of Saint Joseph and what he created through the work of his hands.

Spend some time admiring the beauty of God’s creation today. Go for a walk, watch the sunrise or sunset, or look at pictures from travels to a place of natural beauty.

Day 30: The book of Genesis makes clear that doing work in our fallen world is not easy. Work is tiring. Saint Joseph experienced this exhaustion in his work. He knew what it was like to be fatigued and frustrated at the end of a day of work when his efforts to accomplish a project were not entirely successful, when some things did not turn out the way he had hoped, or when certain people were difficult to please. Yet, he did not quit. He continued working.

Say a prayer today for people whose work is particularly tiring and stressful, especially front- line workers.

Day 31: In his work, Joseph exemplified great patience. Not only was carpentry meticulous work, but Joseph’s labor also involved dealing with the general public. The people of Nazareth did not have the best reputation. When Nathaniel was told about “Jesus son of Joseph, from Nazareth”, he questioned: “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” (:45-46). Nazarenes were a tough lot. A rough crowd. Trying to do business with them meant Joseph was interacting regularly with people who were not the most honest, just, or respectful. He

14 had many opportunities to be a witness of patience to them, reflecting God’s patience towards sinners, while also providing for his family.

Pray for the unemployed today.

Day 32: Jesus’ mentor in carpentry was his father. Joseph assisted Jesus in developing practical work skills. He taught Jesus, in his humanity, how to build and complete carpentry projects.

Write a thank-you note to a mentor who helped you develop practical skills and expertise to do your job well.

Day 33: The approach of Jesus and Joseph to work at Nazareth was redemptive. They did even the most menial of tasks out of love for God and neighbor. They were not working for notoriety or fame, to accumulate excessive wealth, or to make others dependent upon them. Instead, they approached their work as service, a way of bettering the lives of other people. In this way, they show how our work can give glory to God.

Put up a small picture of your loved ones near your workplace as a reminder to do your work out of love for them and the other people your work is meant to serve.

Day 34: While the gospels depict Saint Joseph as a man of work, they also make clear that he took time to rest. In fact, the narrates Joseph sleeping on multiple occasions, precisely when he was under heavy stress in tense situations (Matthew 1:20; 2:13, 19). Yet, his rest was a path to clarity for him. After rising from sleep, he followed the inspiration he had received. It takes trust to sleep during stressful times. It requires us to admit that we cannot do everything ourselves. That God’s work is more important than our work. That only he can save us. That our work should never become an idol.

Observe Sunday as a true Sabbath, refraining from unnecessary work. Use the day for healthy recreation, relaxing with family and friends, and sleep.

Day 35: In describing the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, the gospel of Luke traces Joseph’s family tree back to in the book of Genesis (Luke 3:38). This recalls the great goodness God placed within humanity, from Adam and Eve to us today. God sees great potential in us. While sin can hold humanity back, those who cooperate with God’s grace can discover their God-given potential. Joseph excelled in cooperating with God and allowing God’s power to shine through his humanity.

Do something to support someone who is struggling to accept their own goodness and potential, such as someone you know who is dealing with a mental illness.

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Day 36: Early in his public ministry, Jesus visited the synagogue at his home town of Nazareth. Here he had customarily spent the Sabbath for most of his first thirty years of life. When he preached to his neighbors and friends there, they were amazed at his teaching, yet also quickly dismissive of him. They asked “Isn’t this the son of Joseph?” (:22), not willing to entertain the possibility that Jesus had a special prophetic vocation. Jesus responded by pointing out examples from the Old Testament of God utilizing surprising and simple means to work wonders in peoples’ lives. This encounter at the synagogue makes clear that Jesus had spent most of his life in humble circumstances as the child of Joseph and Mary. Obviously, his parents had not been bragging throughout his childhood and adulthood about his special talents and gifts. Not clamoring for fame and attention, they lived humbly. Avoiding vanity, they trusted that God’s power can work through surprisingly simple means.

Take a day off from social media. Avoid worrying about your appearance and do not look for opportunities to brag about yourself.

Day 37: Jesus taught that he was the “bread of life” that came down from heaven. Those who ate “bread from heaven”, Jesus said, would live forever. When his listeners heard these words about the gift of the Eucharist, they complained and grumbled in front of Jesus. “Is this not Jesus, the son of Joseph? Do we not know his father and mother? Then how can he say, ‘I have come down from heaven’?” (:42). Jesus responded by emphasizing that God the Father sent him from heaven to share eternal life with the world. We receive the gift of eternal life through the sacraments of the Church, especially the Eucharist. Believing in the sacraments takes great faith. As Jesus’ listeners pointed out, what we see appears to be only human figures and earthly elements. We pray to have the faith-filled vision of Saint Joseph. To see the divine at work here on earth, accepting the heavenly origin of Jesus, his ministry, and the sacraments he established.

Stop by a church today to pray before the Blessed Sacrament.

Day 38: Since the gospels do not mention the presence of Joseph during Jesus’ ministry, it is assumed that he died prior to Jesus initiating his public ministry. Saint Joseph is considered the patron saint of a “happy death”, dying in the hopeful and loving presence of Jesus and Mary. Traditionally, Catholics pray to Saint Joseph for the same grace. To die accompanied by the reassuring comfort of Mary our spiritual Mother and the grace of Jesus leading our souls through death to eternal life in heaven.

Pray for all who are preparing for death and all who accompany them: their family members and friends, medical personnel, hospice workers, clergy, and funeral service professionals.

16 Day 39: Saint Joseph is Patron of the Universal Church. Just as he watched over the Body of Christ during his earthly life in Bethlehem, Egypt, and Nazareth, so too does he now watch over the Mystical Body of Christ, the Church.

Pray today for greater unity in the Church.

Day 40: During every Mass, we remember Saint Joseph during the Eucharistic Prayer. This remembrance takes places within the context of our plea to share with him one day in the life of heaven. Heaven is a pure gift from God. An existence of joy, peace, and love that goes beyond any earthly experience. As we ponder Saint Joseph’s great virtue, we also consider the humanity he has in common with us. The heavenly glory gifted him by Jesus gives us hope that God in his generosity desires to share the same gift with us even though we are sinners. We are broken and weak, yet loved, cherished, and precious to God our Father.

Remember your deceased family members, friends, and fellow parishioners in prayer today.

Sagrada Familia del pajarito by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo

17 Consecration Day:

As you make your consecration to Saint Joseph today, consider how your relationship with him has grown over these special days of preparation. Reflect on his many virtues and the manifold ways his love will accompany you on your Christian journey. Ponder how his life is inspiring to you right now.

Adopt a practical resolution to keep Saint Joseph part of your spiritual life. Commit to a daily or weekly prayer to Saint Joseph, place an image or statue of him in your home, light a candle before his statue each month at your parish church, or find some other way to keep in mind that Saint Joseph is near you and praying for you.

Litany of Saint Joseph 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, of the world, have mercy on us. God the Holy , have mercy on us. Holy Trinity, One God, have mercy on us.

Holy Mary, pray for us. St. Joseph, pray for us. Illustrious son of , pray for us. Light of patriarchs, pray for us. Spouse of the Mother of God, pray for us. Chaste guardian of the Virgin, pray for us. Foster father of the Son of God, pray for us. Watchful defender of Christ, pray for us. Head of the Holy Family, pray for us. Joseph most just, pray for us. Joseph most chaste, pray for us. Joseph most prudent, pray for us. Joseph most valiant, pray for us. Joseph most obedient, pray for us. Joseph most faithful, pray for us. Mirror of patience, pray for us. Lover of poverty, pray for us. Model of workmen, pray for us. Glory of home life, pray for us. Guardian of virgins, pray for us. Pillar of families, pray for us.

18 Solace of the afflicted, pray for us. Hope of the sick, pray for us. Patron of the dying, pray for us. Terror of demons, pray for us. Protector of Holy Church, pray for us.

Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, Spare us, O Lord! Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, Graciously hear us, O Lord! Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, Have mercy on us! V. He made him the lord of His household, R. And prince over all His possessions.

Let Us Pray O God, Who in Thine ineffable Providence didst vouchsafe to choose Blessed 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 lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.

Prayer of Consecration by St. Bernardine of Siena

O my beloved St. Joseph, adopt me as thy child. Take charge of my salvation; watch over me day and night; preserve me from the occasions of sin; obtain for me purity of body. Through thy intercession with Jesus, grant me a spirit of sacrifice, humility, self-denial, burning love for Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, and a sweet and tender love for Mary, my mother. St. Joseph, be with me living, be with me dying, and obtain for me a favorable judgement from Jesus, my merciful Savior. Amen.

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Scripture texts in this work are taken from the New American Bible, revised edition © 2010, 1991, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Washington, D.C. and are used by permission of the copyright owner. All Rights Reserved. No part of the New American Bible may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Daily meditations composed by Father Philip A. Smith, STL. Cover art by Kathy Palmer Genzman. Used with Permission.

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