Saint Joseph, An Accepting Father

Reflection

Joseph’s attitude encourages us to accept and welcome others as they are, without exception, and to show special concern for the weak, for God chooses what is weak (cf. 1 Cor 1.27). He is the “Father of orphans and protector of widows” (Ps 68.6), who commands us to love the stranger in our midst. I like to think that it was from Saint Joseph that Jesus drew inspiration for the parable of the prodigal son and the merciful father (cf. Lk 15.11-32).

Patris Corde, 4
(Apostolic Letter by Pope Francis, 2020)

Prayer

Vocations to the Priesthood and Consecrated Life

Saint Joseph, accepting father,
we ask that you intercede with your Son,
the Saviour of the world,
to give to the Church
an increase in vocations
to the priesthood and consecrated life,
filled with zeal
for the work of evangelization.

V. One thing I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after:
R. To live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life. (Ps 27.4)

Action

Accept and welcome others as they are, without exception, and show special concern for the weak. (Patris Corde, 4)