On 08 December 2020, Pope Francis proclaimed 08 December 2020 - 08 December 2021 as the Year of St Joseph. On this Feast Day of St Joseph, who is the Patron of the Universal Church, we recall how he protected Mary and Jesus, loving the Son of God with a father's heart.

We pray that St Joseph will also guide and protect us, especially during these challenging times in our world.

Year of St Joseph Prayer

Hail, Guardian of the Redeemer,
Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
To you God entrusted his only Son;
in you Mary placed her trust;
with you Christ became man.

Blessed Joseph, to us too,
show yourself a father
and guide us in the path of life.
Obtain for us grace, mercy and courage,
and defend us from every evil. Amen.

"Each of us can discover in Joseph – the man who goes unnoticed, a daily, discreet and hidden presence – an intercessor, a support and a guide in times of trouble. Saint Joseph reminds us that those who appear hidden or in the shadows can play an incomparable role in the history of salvation. A word of recognition and of gratitude is due to them all." -- Pope Francis, Apostolic Letter, Patris Corde*

For the full Apostolic Letter, Year of St Joseph Prayer Card, monthly reflections and other resources, please visit Year of St Joseph - Australian Catholic Bishops Conference

*Source of prayer and quote: Apostolic Letter, Patris Corde, of the Holy Father Francis on the 150th anniversary of the proclamation of Saint Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church