‘At death life is changed, not ended’ (cf. the Roman Missal: Preface for Christian Death)
Even though the Gospels mention nothing about his death, the traditional image we have is of St. Joseph dying in the arms of Jesus and Mary. Being in the presence not only of his loved ones but also the One who is God’s Word made flesh is what made his death ‘happy.’
Perhaps one reason the Gospels make no mention of his death is to point out death’s meaning for a Christian. Just as Joseph is physically present during Jesus’ birth and childhood, so, too, does Joseph remain spiritually present throughout the Gospel. We can perhaps feel this presence whenever Jesus talks about fatherhood in whatever context, whether it is in the father welcoming back the Prodigal Son (Lk. 15:11-32), or in Jesus allowing little children to be noisy and active in front him (see Mt. 19:13-15, Mk. 10:13-16 and Lk. 18:15-17). Just as in his earthly, physical death, Joseph does not so much ‘disappear from’, but rather ‘disappears into’ the life of the Gospel, so too, do our loved ones never disappear from us at their death, but disappear into the narrative of our lives.
St. Joseph, may your happy death, in the company of Mary and Jesus, remind us that at our death our lives, and the lives of our loved ones, are indeed not ended, but changed.
Let us come together in faith and prayer, even from a distance. Feel free to invite your family and friends! See you online at 10AM UK time!
Novena Prayer to St. Joseph
Ever glorious St. Joseph, good and faithful servant, God was pleased to place his own family in your care.
We thank you for being such a wonderful example of humility and faith, of prayerfulness and courage, in your ordinary daily life.
Through your intercession, may God grant us the blessing of living continually in his presence, and responding to his love in our daily lives. And when we have lived our days on earth, may God give us the great joy he gave you—that of entering eternal life in the company of Jesus and Mary.
Most loving St. Joseph, accept our Novena prayers and obtain for us through your powerful intercession, the favours and graces we ask for in
this Novena.
Pause to call to mind your special intentions…
St. Joseph, Pray for us.
Our Father…
Hail Mary…
Glory be…
