St. Joseph Novena

O St. Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the Throne of God, I place in you all my interests and desires. O St. Joseph, do assist me by your powerful intercession and obtain for me from your Divine Son all spiritual blessings through Jesus Christ, Our Lord; so that having engaged here below your Heavenly power I may offer my thanksgiving and homage to the most Loving of Fathers. O St. Joseph, I never weary contemplating you and Jesus asleep in your arms. I dare not approach while He reposes near your heart. Press Him in my name and kiss His fine Head for me, and ask Him to return the Kiss when I draw my dying breath. St. Joseph, Patron of departing souls, pray for us.

Amen

Wednesday, December 14, 2005

Mary: The Mother of Jesus

Mary: The Mother of Jesus by Tomie de Paola, Holiday House

Mary: The Mother of Jesus is my favorite book by Tomie de Paola. De Paola chronicles Mary's life from before her conception to her becoming Queen of Heaven. He uses quotes from the antiphons and the Bible to tell this beautiful story. In doing so, he brings greater glory to God the Son ("to Jesus through Mary"). My three and five year old sit in rapt attention, looking at the pictures, each time I read the book.