Joseph, Father of Jesus

 

In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen

 

OPENING PRAYER

O glorious St Joseph,
called by God to be protector of Jesus his only begotten Son,
be our guide as we come to know our heavenly Father.

 

SCRIPTURE

Read from the Gospel of Luke 2:15-20:

‘So they hurried away and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. Everyone was astonished at what the shepherds had to say.’

How wonderful those first hours as new parents; already full of challenge, and a life ahead of joy and tears, but always full of wonder.

 

PATRIS CORDE

WITH A FATHER’S HEART: that is how Joseph loved Jesus, whom all four Gospels refer to as “the son of Joseph”.

 

CLOSING PRAYER

Many families – and fathers – have struggled this past year: with distance from loved ones, or loss of income, uncertainty, ill health or many other stresses. Bring the fathers and grandfathers you know to Jesus and St Joseph; commend them to their care, and ask their blessing on them.

Hail, Guardian of the Redeemer, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

To you God entrusted his only Son; in you Mary placed her trust; with you Christ became man. Blessed Joseph, to us too, show yourself a father and guide us in the path of life. Obtain for us grace, mercy and courage, and defend us from every evil. Amen.

 

ACTIVITY

Do you know a father or grandfather who would appreciate a phone call, and some empathy and affirmation?