Saint Joseph Novena: Day One

Saint Joseph is the patron saint of carpenters. In this year when the Church of Saint Mary is planning construction, we begin our novena asking for the intercession of Saint Joseph, patron of carpenters.

Reflection:

“Is [Jesus] not the carpenter’s son?” (Matthew 13:55) Joseph provided for his family through his occupation as a carpenter.

 

The Roman government that occupied Nazareth required young boys to do manual work. The authorities would have known that Jesus had access to all of Joseph’s tools. There is a tradition that Jesus built crosses for the government when He was young.

Tulsa’s Holy Family Cathedral has a stained glass window in it entitled The Holy Family at work. It depicts Joseph working in his shop, Mary knitting something in her lap, and a juvenile Jesus with a book in His hand, and a cross and tools at His feet.

 

Prayer:

O Saint Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God, I place in you all my interests and desires.

O Saint Joseph, assist me by your powerful intercession and obtain for me from your Divine Son all spiritual blessings through Jesus Christ, Our Lord; so that having engaged here below your heavenly power, I may offer my thanksgiving and homage to the most loving of Fathers.

O Saint Joseph, I never weary contemplating you and Jesus asleep in your arms; I dare not approach while He reposes near your heart. Press Him in my name and kiss His fine head for me, and ask Him to return the Kiss when I draw my dying breath. Amen.

O Saint Joseph, hear my prayers and obtain my petitions. O Saint Joseph, pray for me. (Mention your intention.)

Amen.