PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH, PATRON OF THE UNIVERSAL CHURCH
O GLORIOUS St. Joseph, selected by God to be the foster-father of Jesus, the most pure spouse of Mary, ever Virgin, and head of the Holy Family; therefore chosen by Christ’s vicar as the heavenly patron and protector of the Church founded by Christ; with the greatest confidence I now implore thy powerful assistance for the whole Church militant. Protect in an especial manner, with thy truly fatherly love, the Sovereign Pontiff and all bishops and priests united with the See of Peter. Be the protector of those who labor for souls amid the trials and tribulations of this life, and grant that all the people of the earth may submit with docility to that Church which is the necessary means of salvation for all.
Deign also, dear St. Joseph, to accept the consecration which I make of myself to thee. I dedicate myself to thy service, that thou mayest be ever my father, my protector and my guide in the way of salvation. Obtain for me great purity of heart and a fervent love for the interior life. Grant that, after thy example, all my actions may be directed to the greater glory of God in union with the divine Heart of Jesus, the immaculate heart of Mary, and thy own. Finally, pray for me, that I may participate in the peace and joy which thou didst enjoy in thy holy death. Amen.
(Ind. of 300 days, once a day.—Leo XIII. July 18, 1886.)
