Franciscan Media published a wonderful article and accompanying video in which they speak with Maureen O’Brien about the refuge she found in the Biblical Psalms. Maureen wrote a spiritual memoir What Was Lost: Seeking Refuge in the Psalms. We invite you to find a resting place in the psalms by clicking the button below.
Each Wednesday in July we invite you and your children to listen as author Christine Way Skinner reads one of her children’s books. Today we listen to We Are Catholic.
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!
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
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?
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?
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,
Prayer: © Libreria Editrice Vaticana
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.
Watch this website next Tuesday for the final reflection,
Joseph, A Father in the Shadows
St. Francis of Assisi Parish 