“Being more closely united to Christ, those who dwell in heaven fix the whole Church more firmly in holiness … They do not cease to intercede with the Father for us, as they proffer the merits which they acquired on earth through the one mediator between God and men, Christ Jesus …. So by their fraternal concern is our weakness greatly helped.” Catechism of the Catholic Church #956
This week we celebrate our communion with St. Patrick (March 17) and St. Joseph (March 19).
St. Patrick (389-461) most likely was born in Great Britain. As a young man he was captured and sold as a slave in Ireland where he had to tend sheep. Having escaped from slavery, he chose to enter the priesthood, and later, as bishop, he tirelessly preached the Gospel to the people of Ireland where he converted many to the Catholic faith and established the Church.
Christ be with me, Christ within me,
Christ behind me, Christ before me,
Christ beside me, Christ to win me,
Christ to comfort and restore me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ in quiet, Christ in danger,
Christ in hearts of all that love me,
Christ in mouth of friend and stranger. – St. Patrick’s Breastplate
St. Joseph was chosen by God, the Father, to be the Guardian of the Redeemer, Jesus, and Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. He was chosen to be the head of the Holy Family. He took loving care of Mary and gladly dedicated himself to Jesus’ upbringing and he continues his care for the Church which is the Family of God. St. Joseph is the Patron of the Universal Church.
Memorare of St. Joseph
Remember, O most chaste spouse of the Virgin Mary, that it has never been known that anyone who asked for your help and sought your intercession was left unaided. Full of confidence in your power, I hasten to you, and beg your protection. Listen, O foster-father of the Redeemer, to my humble prayer, and in your goodness answer me.
