FEAST of ST. JOSEPH, SPOUSE of the BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

Today, Keeping It Catholic asks Catholics nationwide to join us as we pray to God, asking for St. Joseph's intercession to defend and preserve the life of Terri Schindler-Schiavo. Please pray these prayers throughout the day, remembering that it is only by prayer and fasting that demons flee and miracles occur. (Matthew 17: 19-21)

To that end, KIC offers the two following prayers that ask for St. Joseph?s special protection:

PRAYER AND ACT OF CONSECRATION TO ST. JOSEPH, PATRON OF THE UNIVERSAL CHURCH

O glorious St. Joseph, chosen by God to be the foster father of Jesus, the most pure spouse of Mary, ever Virgin, and the head of the Holy Family, and recognized as the heavenly patron and protector of the Church founded by Jesus Christ; with the greatest confidence we implore at this time thy powerful aid. Protect in a special manner with thy truly paternal love, the spiritual and earthly life of Terri Schindler-Schiavo, and that of the entire Church Militant. Defend all those who labor in the midst of the afflictions and tribulations of this life, and obtain the willing submission of every nation throughout the world to the Church, the necessary means of salvation for all.

O dearest St. Joseph, be pleased to accept the consecration which I make to thee of myself. I dedicate myself entirely to thee that thou may ever be my father, my protector and my guide in the way of salvation. Obtain for me great purity of heart and a fervent love of the interior life. Grant that after thy examples all my actions may be directed to the greater glory of God, in union with the Divine Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and with thee. Finally, pray for me and mine, and for all those for whom I pray, that we may attain final perseverance. Amen.

THE ST. JOSEPH PRAYER (For a Special Intention)

In asking for the grace that Terri Schindler-Schiavo?s mortal life may be preserved and that she may be healed from all physical affliction, for the greater glory of God, I turn to thee, St. Joseph, spouse of the Virgin Mary and protector of the innocent.

O St. Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God, I place in thee all of my interests and desires.
O St. Joseph, do assist me through thy powerful intercession and obtain for me from thy Divine Son all spiritual blessings, through Jesus Christ, Our Lord; so that having engaged below thy heavenly power, we may offer our thanksgiving and homage to the most loving of fathers.
O St. Joseph, we never weary contemplating thee and Jesus asleep in thy arms. I dare not approach while He reposes near thy heart. Press Him in my name, kiss His fine Head for me, and ask Him to return the kiss when I draw my dying breath.
O St. Joseph, patron of departing souls, pray for us. Amen.