MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NOVENA TO ST. JOSEPH IN SUPPORT OF MARRIAGE

The bishops of Ontario are encouraging Catholics to express their appreciation of sacramental marriage by praying a Novena to St. Joseph leading up to his Feast Day, which falls on March 20 this year.

In an age in which there are many distractions from marriage and the family, the grace of the sacrament of marriage is a support and inspiration to those living out their commitments faithfully. A prayer of thanksgiving serves also as a reminder of God’s plan for married couples and allows a time of reflection in the midst of a busy life.

The Novena to St. Joseph is most appropriate. St. Joseph, as the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the step-father of Jesus, is a model for all fathers, just as the Holy Family is a model for all families. Catholics are asked to pray for St. Joseph’s intercession for the preservation of the dignity and sanctity of marriage.

Click here for a link to the prayer.

For more information contact:

Tom Reilly, General Secretary
Ontario Conference of Catholic Bishops
416-923-1423
e-mail: reillyt@occb.on.ca
web: www.occb.on.ca

Novena Prayer to Saint Joseph

In the beginning of our Christian era,
you asked Joseph, illustrious descendant of David, 
to take the blessed Virgin Mary as his wife 
and to form with her a family 
for Jesus, your Son, our Redeemer.
Through the difficulties and trials
you guided St. Joseph,
you made him the protector of the Holy Family
and allowed the Church to recognize him 
as an attentive protector for all Christian families.

During this stressful time in which we live,
we ask you to safeguard marriage according to your will,
and we appeal for the intercession and protection
of St. Joseph, your obedient servant,
so that Canadian families of today 
will be strengthened in love
and continue to live securely 
in the sacramental state of marriage.

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