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ST JOSPEH ADDED IN ALL EUCHARISTIC PRAYERS
The Holy Family of Mary, Jesus and Joseph is an important model for Christians, but Joseph has always been more in the background — the man of fortitude and humility who was not Jesus’ biological father, according to the Gospels. Joseph has just a few mentions in the Bible, and he is not seen once Jesus begins the ministry that leads to his crucifixion and death.
Now, Roman Catholics will pray to St. Joseph at each Mass, thanks to the request of pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, and the approval of Pope Francis
He’s always known as the quiet one, the silent one. He’s very little in Scripture. He’s always in the background but he’s the protector. Joseph is engaged to Mary when they find out that she is pregnant, but Joseph is not the father, according to the Gospel of Matthew. He “planned to dismiss her quietly” to spare Mary public disgrace, but is told by an angel to marry Mary, who will give birth to a son who “will save his people from their sins.” Other mentions of Joseph are sparse, but Jesus is referred to as “the carpenter’s son” by skeptics in his hometown. St Joseph is a wonderful example of humility and of kindness. Joseph is also the patron saint of a happy death, of families, fathers and orphans, pregnant women, married couples, carpenters, teachers among others.
The consideration of adding Joseph to all the Eucharistic prayers began under Pope Benedict XVI. Until now, he’s only been mentioned in one of the four choices of Eucharistic Prayers.
So in addition to St. Joseph’s Day, March 19 and the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker on May 1, Jesus’ earthly father will be prayed to at every Mass. The prayers will say, in part, “with the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, with Blessed Joseph, her Spouse, with the blessed Apostles …”