Prayer of Pope John XXIII - for Fathers

Saint Joseph, guardian of Jesus

and chaste husband of Mary,

you passed your life in loving fulfillment of duty.

You supported the holy family of Nazareth

with the work of your hands.

Kindly protect those who trustingly come to you.

You know their aspirations,

their hardships, their hopes.

They look to you because they know

you will understand and protect them.

You too knew trial,

labour and weariness.

But amid the worries of material life,

your soul was full of deep peace

and sang out in true joy

through intimacy with God's Son entrusted to you

and with Mary, his tender Mother.

Assure those you protect that they do not labour alone.

Teach them to find Jesus near them

and to watch over Him faithfully as you have done.

Amen.