Men,
St. Joseph was characterized by swift action, faithful obedience, and selfless care of the Holy Family during our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ’s childhood.
A devotion to the model father can be traced back all the way to the 3rd-4th century. But, this ancient prayer to St. Joseph can be traced back to 50 A.D. and is considered to be a very powerful one. It has been recited by faithful Catholics for generations, with much positive effect. It is known that this prayer received an imprimatur in 1950 from the Bishop of Pittsburgh, Hugh Boyle.
Promises Associated
The postscript below is commonly included with the prayer:
"This prayer was found in the 50th year of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In 1505, it was sent from the pope to Emperor Charles when he was going into battle. Whoever shall read this prayer or hear it or keep it about themselves, shall never die a sudden death or be drowned, nor shall poison take effect on them; neither shall they fall into the hands of the enemy or be burned in any fire or be overpowered in battle. Say for nine mornings for anything you desire. It has never been known to fail."
The Ancient Prayer
O St. Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God, I place in you all my interest and desires. O St. Joseph, do 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 St. Joseph, I never weary of contemplating you, and Jesus asleep in your arms; I dare not approach while He reposes near your heart. Press Him close in my name and kiss His fine head for me and ask Him to return the kiss when I draw my dying breath. St. Joseph, patron of departing souls, pray for me. Amen.
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam
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