Special devotional opportunity

Pope Francis is calling attention to the adoptive father of Jesus, emphasizing St. Joseph's quiet, behind-the-scene, protective and faith-filled love for the Christ Child. Parishes are offering an opportunity to do a 33-day preparation and then consecration. Ask your parish if it has one planned for the fall.

Pope Francis, in his Apostolic Letter Patris corde (“With a Father’s Heart”), named this the Year of St. Joseph in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the saint being named patron of the Universal Church. The celebration extends from the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, Dec. 8, 2020 to Dec. 8, 2021.

"St. Joseph fulfilled his calling to be protector and father figure to Jesus with humility, charity and creative courage," said Bishop William Joensen. Very little of St. Joseph is mentioned in the Gospels. "Each of us can discover in Joseph – the man who goes unnoticed, a daily, discreet and hidden presence – an intercessor, a support and a guide in times of trouble. St. Joseph reminds us that those who appear hidden or in the shadows can play an incomparable role in the history of salvation. A word of recognition and of gratitude is due to them all." (Patris corde)

Bishops

Archbishop Michael Jackels shared these insights on the benefits of learning more about St. Joseph and praying for his intercession.

Here is a presentation by Bishop Joseph Tyson, of the Diocese of Yakima, providing a more indepth explanation.

Special days

Wednesday is the traditional day of the week for devotions to St. Joseph.

Grace

There are several opportunities for grace through this special year.

• The Catholic Church is granting plenary indulgences in honor of the Year of St. Joseph. Read here the conditions for receiving an indulgence. 
• This novena was crafted for those on the path to adoption. Those whose lives are touched by adoption are encouraged to ask St. Joseph to intercede for them, particularly couples who yearn to be adoptive parents.

Consecration/Prayers

One can consecrate their life to St. Joseph, meaning they want to live their life as closely to that of St. Joseph and ask him to lead them to God. Here one prayer of consecration and here is another resource for consecration.  Click here for Reflections, Prayers, Devotions, and Consecration to St. Joseph.