As my father draws closer and closer to his last end, I find my heart becoming more and more drawn to the following prayer. May you receive similar comfort and consolation when praying it.
To thee, O blessed Joseph, we have recourse in our affliction and having implored the help of thy thrice holy spouse, we now with hearts filled with confidence earnestly beg thee also to take us under thy protection. By that charity wherewith thou wert united to the Immaculate Virgin Mother of God, and by that fatherly love wherewith thou didst cherish the Child, Jesus, we beseech thee and humbly pray that thou wouldst vouchsafe to take us under thy protection and succor in our need by thy power and strength. Defend, O most watchful guardian of the Holy Family, the chosen offspring of Jesus Christ. Keep from us O most loving father, all blight of error and corruption. Aid us from on high most valiant defender in this conflict with the powers of darkness, and even as of old as though didst rescue the Child, Jesus, from the perils of His life, so now also defend God’s holy Church from the snares of our enemies and from all adversity. Shield from us ever under the patronage that following thy example and strengthened by thy help, we may lead a holy life, die a happy death, and attain to everlasting bliss in Heaven. Amen.
Photo by Josh Applegate