This morning, the last day of the Third Quarter, we begin our two-day celebration of the Feast of St. Joseph.  According to the Gospels, Joseph was a skilled craftsman and a descendant of King David. He was told in a dream to take Mary as his wife and make her child his own, and so he became the earthly father of Jesus.   St. Joseph is the patron saint of the Universal Church and is also honored as the patron of the dying.

In keeping with an old tradition brought by Italian immigrants from Sicily to New Orleans, Brother Martin will host our annual St. Joseph Day Altar in the Branton Chapel today and tomorrow. The altar is open now through 6:00 PM.   All visitors will receive a special gift.

Let us call to mind that we are in God’s presence...

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

Our Father,

St. Joseph was appointed as the patron of your Catholic Church because he was the head of the Holy Family, the starting-point of the Church. St. Joseph was the father, protector, guide, and supporter of the Holy Family.

We pray that St. Joseph will be our guide throughout Lent as we deepen our relationship with you, Lord.

We pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

St. Joseph, pray for us.

Ametur Cor Jesu! Ametur Cor Mariae!

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