Saint Joseph Novena: Day Nine

Saint Joseph is the patron saint of a happy death.

Reflection:

We don’t often combine the two words happy and death. Joseph may have been surprised that he would experience a happy death.

According to tradition, when Joseph neared the end of his life on earth, he was surrounded by his family. Resting against his wife and staring at the face of Jesus, Joseph breathed his last. As he died, he saw angels overhead, knew that he would enter heaven, and smiled as he closed his eyes.

At the end of our lives, we can ask Jesus Christ for mercy and we can ask Saint Mary and Saint Joseph for their intercession. The grace of spending years with Jesus gave Saint Joseph confidence in the hope of eternal life – long before Jesus’ public ministry. May we place our trust in the intercession of Saint Joseph, patron saint of a happy death.

 

Prayer:

O Saint Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God, I place in you all my interests and desires.

O Saint Joseph, assist me by your powerful intercession and obtain for me from your Divine Son all spiritual blessings through Jesus Christ, Our Lord; so that having engaged here below your heavenly power, I may offer my thanksgiving and homage to the most loving of Fathers.

O Saint Joseph, I never weary contemplating you and Jesus asleep in your arms; I dare not approach while He reposes near your heart. Press Him in my name and kiss His fine head for me, and ask Him to return the Kiss when I draw my dying breath. Amen.

O Saint Joseph, hear my prayers and obtain my petitions. O Saint Joseph, pray for me. (Mention your intention.)

Amen.