"Go To Joseph"

   Today we begin our annual solemn novena to Saint Joseph - patron of our monastery! Two years ago I shared how our Foundress, Mother Mary Agnes, chose St. Joseph to be protector of our monastery.   

    This statue has been with us since the beginning of our foundation in this diocese in 1946. It was donated by the Steele family who have been wonderful friends of our community since those early days.  A few years ago a friend of ours painted it. May the Lord bless all our benefactors who make our life of prayer and penance a possibility!

    Perhaps you would like to join us as we make this novena. Each day we have a common reading from Guardian of the Redeemer by the Servant of God Pope John Paul II. Below is the prayer we are using. It is by Blessed Pope John XXIII.

Saint Joseph, guardian of Jesus and chaste husband of Mary, you passed your life in loving fulfillment of duty. You supported the holy family of Nazareth with the work of your hands. Kindly protect those who trustingly come to you. You know their aspirations, their hardships, their hopes. They look to you because they know you will understand and protect them. You too knew trial, labor, and weariness. But amid the worries of material life, your soul was full of deep peace and sang out in true joy through intimacy with God’s Son entrusted to you, and, with Mary, his tender Mother. Assure those you protect that they do not labor alone. Teach them to find Jesus near them and to watch over him faithfully as you have done. Amen. 

    During this novena we are especially reminding St. Joseph of your needs and intentions. Would you please pray for us? Especially for more young women to respond to God's call to be a Passionist Nun. Two or three women will be here for a vocation visit on St. Joseph's weekend!

    Feast of St. Joseph - March 19th

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    Thanks for your kind prayers for Liz. Her discernment with us was very graced and she returned home earlier this week. I'm sure she would appreciate a prayer or two as she re-adjusts to life outside the monastery and peacefully seeks the Lord's plans for her future. God bless you Liz. We miss you!