Roman Inc - Saint Joseph - Patron of Fathers, the Church

St Joseph

Patron of Fathers, the Church (First Century)

Figurine comes nicely displayed in a clear fronted box with the the Story of the saint on the outside and a prayer card inside.

Joseph was a just man, who worked as a carpenter in the little village of Nazareth. According to the New Testament, he was a descendant from the royal house of David and betrothed to Mary during the time of the Annunciation.

When Joseph found out that Mary had conceived a child before they were married, he was greatly distressed.  Because he was a kind man, he wished to end their betrothal quietly, and spare Mary any shame, but an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream to guide him and to calm his fears.   The angel told Joseph that Mary’s child had been conceived by the Holy Spirit and was the long awaited Messiah who would save his people from their sins.  Moved and overjoyed at this news, Joseph, without hesitation, obeyed God and took Mary as his wife.

Joseph proved himself to be the faithful protector of Mary and her Son.  He cared for Mary during the birth of Jesus, and obeyed God’s angel once more when he took his family on a difficult journey to Egypt to escape Herod, who wished to murder Jesus.

As Jesus’  father, it was Joseph’s duty to guide Jesus and educate Him on the scriptures.  Because God chose Joseph as the steadfast guardian of Jesus on earth, he is also patron of the Universal Church as well as the special protector of fathers of families.  Joseph is also considered the patron of departing souls, as it is believed that Joseph died in the arms of Jesus and Mary, years before Jesus began his preaching. He is often invoked by those seeking a peaceful passing.

Feast Day: March 19

Prayer to St Joseph

Oh St Joseph whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God, I place in you all my interests and desires.  Oh St Joseph do assist me by your powerful intercession and obtain for me from you 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. Oh St 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.  St Joseph, Patron of departing souls, pray for us.

Amen

Height: 8.8cm.

Material: Stone / Resin Mix