Opening Prayer: St. Joseph, our Patron and our Friend, send blessings of peace, joy and well being to all of us as we gather here in your honor. In a special way, bless all those women and men who support us in our ministry as we dedicate ourselves to the mission of Jesus, who lives with the Father and the Spirit, now and forever. Amen

Quiet reflection on the life of St. Joseph

Scripture affords little information on Joseph. We can conclude that Joseph was serious about his relationship with God in that Joseph was so attentive to the desires of God, he listened to the angel, and he followed the promptings of his dreams. What about me, am I attentive to God's promptings? Joseph was serious about his relationship with others. Note his concern for Mary and the Child Jesus. What about my concern for those with whom I minister and live? Do I mirror Joseph's hospitality? And finally Joseph had a good sense of himself. He trusted that God was with him and so he was open to God's desire for him. Am I open to God's desire for me? Do I trust that God is indeed leading and guiding me?

Let us pray: Creator God, we thank you for being with us throughout salvation history; we are grateful for your love and your gifts. In your presence we pray this litany with Joseph, the just one. Amen

Response to Litany: Pray with us.

Joseph, loving husband of Mary
Foster father of Jesus
Teacher of the dignity of labor
Patron of all who bear your name
For all foster parents
For all struggling with parenting
For those forming the way of the young
For those seeking lost children
For all seeking employment
For all longing for peace
That families today may know holiness
That we may be drawn to an intimate life with Jesus
That we may accept one another's uniqueness
That we may bring to our relationships the gifts of trust and gentleness
That we may be sensitive to one another
That we may share our grief-filled as well as our joy-filled moments
That we may cope with the tensions of our age
That we may respond to the demands of local and global justice
That we may give witness to the dignity of labor
That we may empty ourselves in striving for humility
That we may imitate your obedience to God
That we may serve God in our living and in our dying
That we may know the reunion of a happy death
God made him a faithful, humble person.
All: And lover of Mary and Jesus.

Quiet time to recall intentions of benefactors.

Prayer for Benefactors: Joseph, you were aware of the needs and concerns of others. You did all that you were able to do with the resources you had. You provided for Mary and Jesus. You were hospitable to your neighbors and friends. We come now and ask your intercession for the needs of all those who support our ministries, all those who join us as co-ministers in carrying out the mission of Jesus. Amen

Closing Hymn

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