Prayer to Saint Joseph (To you, O blessed Joseph…)
This prayer, known as "To you, O blessed Joseph," was composed by Pope Leo XIII and published in his encyclical Quamquam pluries in 1889. He exhorted the faithful to recite it daily, especially in October, to implore Saint Joseph's intercession for the Church. Saint Joseph is the patron saint of the Universal Church, families, fathers, workers, and a happy death.
To you, O blessed Joseph, do we come in our tribulation, and having implored the help of your most holy Spouse, we confidently invoke your patronage also.
Through that sacred bond of charity which united you to the Immaculate Virgin Mother of God, and through that paternal love with which you embraced the Child Jesus, we humbly beg you to look graciously upon the inheritance which Jesus Christ has purchased by his Blood, and to assist us in our necessities by your power and strength.
O most provident guardian of the Holy Family, defend the chosen children of Jesus Christ; ward off from us, O most loving father, all contagion of error and corrupting influence; from your place in heaven, most powerful protector, graciously assist us in our struggle with the powers of darkness; and as once you saved the Child Jesus from mortal danger, so now defend God’s Holy Church from the snares of the enemy and from all adversity; shield, too, each one of us with your constant protection, so that, supported by your example and your help, we may be able to live a holy life, die a happy death, and attain to everlasting happiness in heaven. Amen.
Through that sacred bond of charity which united you to the Immaculate Virgin Mother of God, and through that paternal love with which you embraced the Child Jesus, we humbly beg you to look graciously upon the inheritance which Jesus Christ has purchased by his Blood, and to assist us in our necessities by your power and strength.
O most provident guardian of the Holy Family, defend the chosen children of Jesus Christ; ward off from us, O most loving father, all contagion of error and corrupting influence; from your place in heaven, most powerful protector, graciously assist us in our struggle with the powers of darkness; and as once you saved the Child Jesus from mortal danger, so now defend God’s Holy Church from the snares of the enemy and from all adversity; shield, too, each one of us with your constant protection, so that, supported by your example and your help, we may be able to live a holy life, die a happy death, and attain to everlasting happiness in heaven. Amen.
When to pray
It is traditionally prayed during the month of October, as recommended by Pope Leo XIII, and also throughout the year, especially on Saint Joseph's feast days (March 19 and May 1).