“One hundred fifty years ago, in the decree Quemadmodum Deus, Pope Pius IX proclaimed Saint Joseph Patron of the Universal Church. In celebration of that anniversary, Pope Francis has proclaimed a ‘Year of Saint Joseph.’ The special year began December 8, 2020 and will end December 8, 2021.”
“Introducing the Josary”
The Josary, created by Sister Kathleen Rooney SSJ, is like the Rosary, only the focus of the meditations is on Joseph and the mysteries of his life, not on the Blessed Mother’s. The prayer form is just like the rosary and you use rosary beads to pray the Josary. Instead of the Hail Mary, you pray the Joseph Prayer on each bead. The Joseph prayer is:
Joseph, Son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary, your wife, into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. Holy Joseph, Virgin Father of Jesus, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.”
Sister Kathleen Rooney, SSJ
Today, and for the next several weeks, we feature Sister Kathleen Rooney’s Josary mysteries here in the parish bulletin and on our website www.olmc.us. “All Mysteries are prayed by starting with an Our Father, 10 Josary Prayers and ending with a Glory Be.”
“First Mystery:
Joseph the Just Man”
Joseph her husband, since he was a just man, yet unwilling
to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. (Mt 1:19)
This designated title of Joseph reveals to us his character. “Righteous” is another word used to describe Joseph. By Jewish law, as Mary and Joseph were betrothed, he had the right to expose Mary’s condition publicly and have her stoned for adultery. Joseph must have felt stunned, confused and greatly betrayed. Perhaps he even felt humiliated. Yet, Joseph decides, without fanfare or rancor, to divorce her quietly. He chooses not to shame Mary despite his own anguish.
Let us be thankful for Joseph’s righteousness and seek his help when we need to practice justice with mercy.”
SOURCE: Rooney, Kathleen. “Introducing the Josary.” One With Magazine of the Sisters of Saint Joseph Spring 2021: 31-33. Print.