Tenderness — a father's heart

From the Novena to St. Joseph

Sacred Scripture: Hosea 11:3-4

Meditation for Day 7

Pope Francis, in Patris Corde, devotes the second chapter of his letter to 'a father in tenderness.' He writes: 'Joseph saw Jesus grow daily in wisdom and in years and in divine and human favour. As the Lord had done with Israel, so Joseph did with Jesus: he taught him to walk, taking him by the hand.'

Today's prayer is for the gift of paternal — and maternal — tenderness, that we may love those entrusted to us with the strength and the gentleness of St. Joseph.

Daily Novena Prayer (recited every day)

Daily Closing Prayer to St. Joseph (composed by Pope Leo XIII)

To you, O blessed Joseph, do we have recourse in our affliction, and having implored the help of your most holy spouse, we confidently invoke your patronage also. By that affection with which you were united to the Immaculate Virgin Mother of God, and by the paternal love with which you embraced the Child Jesus, we humbly beg you to graciously regard the inheritance which Jesus Christ has purchased by His blood, and with your power and strength to aid us in our necessities. O most watchful Guardian of the Holy Family, defend the chosen offspring of Jesus Christ; keep from us, most loving Father, all blight of error and corruption; mercifully assist us from heaven, most mighty defender, in this our conflict with the powers of darkness; and as you once rescued the Child Jesus from deadly peril, so now defend God's holy Church from the snares of the enemy and from all adversity; shield us under your constant protection, that, supported by your example and your aid, we may be able to live a virtuous life, to die a holy death, and to obtain everlasting happiness in heaven. Amen.

Composed by Pope Leo XIII in 1889 (encyclical Quamquam Pluries) and enriched with a partial indulgence. Recited each of the nine days.