“Would that I could persuade all men to be devout to this glorious saint, for I know by long experience what blessings he can obtain for us from God.” -St. Teresa of Avila
I realize that to one extent or another all of you have been affected by the Covid-19 virus, and I want you to know that I am praying and offering masses for your needs. During the season of Lent, the Church invites us to meditate on our Lord’s passion and to unite our sufferings with His.
This is realized, at least in part, by the ascetical practice of fasting, but this year we have the added crosses brought about by the pandemic—not the least of which is the prohibition of public masses in many dioceses. Additionally, there is the fear of serious illness and financial uncertainty. I’m aware that some of you may have already lost your jobs.
But in the midst of every Lent, we celebrate the feast day of St. Joseph who is the universal patron of the Church. His paternal protection of the child Jesus continues, as he watches over Christ’s Mystical Body on earth. As members of that Body, you and I are under St. Joseph’s guardianship. So today as we honor Joseph, we should also present our fears and sufferings to him and beseech his powerful intercession.
Teresa of Avila was one saint who understood St. Joseph’s vital role. She wrote in her autobiography, “Would that I could persuade all men to be devout to this glorious saint, for I know by long experience what blessings he can obtain for us from God.”
I will continue to lift you up in prayer and today I especially entreat St. Joseph to guard and protect you.
God bless you,
Father Robert Spitzer
