St. Joseph, because of his unique relationship to Jesus and Mary, is among heaven’s most powerful protectors and intercessors. Read a list of St. Joseph’s causes and patronages, as well as some of the many saints who were devoted to St. Joseph. How will you grow in your devotion to him? Here are some ideas:
St. Joseph’s Seven Sorrows and Seven Joys Devotion & the Seven Sundays Devotion
An effective means of obtaining special graces through the intercession of St. Joseph is to honor his seven sorrows and seven joys by the practicing the Seven Sundays devotion.
The Seven Sundays in honor of St. Joseph are observed by receiving Holy Communion in his honor on seven consecutive Sundays, and on each Sunday the prayers in honor of the Seven Sorrows and the Seven Joys of St. Joseph are recited. This devotion may be practiced at any time of the year, but especially on the seven Sundays preceding his solemnity on March 19th.
| JOSEPH’S SEVEN SORROWS | JOSEPH’S SEVEN JOYS |
| 1. The doubt of St. Joseph (Matt. 1:19) | 1. The message of the Angel (Matt. 1:20) |
| 2. The poverty of Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:7) | 2. The birth of the Savior (Luke 2:10-11) |
| 3. The Circumcision (Luke 2:21) | 3. The Holy Name of Jesus (Matt. 1:25) |
| 4. The prophecy of Simeon (Luke 2:34) | 4. The effects of the Redemption (Luke 2:38) |
| 5. The flight into Egypt (Matt. 2:14) | 5. The overthrow of the idols of Egypt (Is. 19:1) |
| 6. The return from Egypt (Matt. 2:22) | 6. Life with Jesus and Mary at Nazareth (Luke 2:39) |
| 7. The loss of the Child Jesus (Luke 2:45) | 7. The finding of the Child Jesus in the Temple (Luke 2:46) |