Here is this week’s guided reflection on Pope Francis’ apostolic letter Patris Corde, With a Father’s Heart. You can use this series on your own for person reflection, or you can use it with your family or friends. It works very well for short zoom gatherings online!

Joseph, A Working Father

Opening Prayer

St. Joseph,
as a carpenter, you provided for your family so that they would be fed and sheltered.
Sharing your skills with Jesus taught him that work provides sustenance in the family,
gives one dignity, and contributes to the common good.
Guide us always so that our work may be pleasing to God. 
Help us to instill in our children the value of work. 
Inspire in us a willingness to share our gifts and talents
to give witness to the importance of dignified work for humanity
as a manifestation of God’s Kingdom here on earth.
In Jesus’ name, we pray!
Amen

Video Reflection

In this video clip, Mr. David Dayler, Diocese of Hamilton, reflects on St. Joseph as a working father.  He considers questions such as:
– How does St. Joseph exemplify dignified work?
– How is work a stabilizing factor for all people, and particularly for families?
– How has the Covid-19 Pandemic called us to review our priorities and ensure that there is work for all?

For further reflection

Take some time to consider these questions. If you are reflecting on your own you may wish to journal. If you are using this reflection with a group, perhaps give time for personal reflection as well as optional sharing.

– How is St. Joseph the Worker a model for you?
– What can you do to help those who have no work to become gainfully employed?
– How is your work God’s work?

Closing Prayer

Hail, Guardian of the Redeemer,
Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
To you God entrusted his only Son;
in you Mary placed her trust;
with you Christ became man.

Blessed Joseph, to us too,
show yourself a father
and guide us in the path of life.
Obtain for us grace, mercy and courage,
and defend us from every evil. Amen.

Prayer: © Libreria Editrice Vaticana

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Watch this website next Tuesday for the final reflection,
Joseph, A Father in the Shadows