The Much Needed Year of St. Joseph

By John C. Preiss

What a perfect year for St. Joseph to be at the forefront of our faith. St. Joseph is often overlooked by many because I guess he just didn’t say a whole lot, yet his actions spoke louder than words.

We are about to begin a new year and thank God for that in so many ways. I want to encourage you to visit our www.apostolatestjoseph.org website to learn more about St. Joseph and engage in some of the prayers for his intercession. We know his intercession is powerful as we know he is the foster father of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

The family is under a greater attack than ever before and St. Joseph spiritual leader of the Holy Family can bring families back together through prayer. In the latest Gallup poll this information was gathered:

The trends are consistent with Americans' evolving views of marriage. Sixty-six percent now believe it ismorally acceptable to have a baby outside of marriage, an increase from 53% the first year the question was asked in 2001. Seventy-two percent,up from 53% in 2001, consider sex between an unmarried man and woman morally acceptable.

We have a lot of work to do in teaching the faith and being the example to others. As parents we have to quit giving in to the immorality of our children. This isn’t ok! (Sex between an unmarried man and unmarried women is becoming morally acceptable). This is never and will never be morally acceptable. This is relativism which has been creeping into our society for a long time.

In this year of Saint Joseph, let us focus on our faith and the morality of our lives and the lives of our children and grandchildren. I know some of you will say, “It’s none of my business what they do”. I’m sorry, as a Christian it is your business. Their souls are at stake and evil is running rampant.

Remember, you are not alone in the fight, prayer and the sacraments are powerful. Also, last but not least, don’t forget good Saint Joseph.

O Most HolySaint Joseph, by your yes to the plan of God, you were united to Jesus through Mary, Mediatrix of all Graces. ... We ask O saint Joseph, terror of demons, and Patron of the Universal Church, that you intercede on our behalf and extend your protection to our own domesticfamilies. Dispel all fear and confusion.