We have been praying our novena to Saint Joseph each evening after Vespers at the Saint Joseph altar in the north transept of the Abbey church. A candle is lit each day by a different brother.
Blessed are you, Joseph, our patron, guardian of the Word Incarnate, to
whom it was given not only to see and hear, but also to embrace and watch over
the Child Jesus himself. We come to you now with confidence that your prayers
to help us in our need will be heard before the throne of God.
Pray for us, Joseph, that the Lord may come into our souls
to sanctify us. That he may come into our minds to enlighten us. That he may
guard our wills and strengthen us. That he may direct our thoughts and purify
them. That he may look upon our deeds and extend his blessings on us.
Pray for us.
God our Father,
in your infinite wisdom and love you chose Joseph to be the husband of Mary,
the mother of your Son. May we, who count him as our special patron, continue
to have the help of his prayers and know the security of his protection. We ask
this through Christ our Lord. All: Amen.