Feast of Saint Joseph

As a child, I always associated this feast day with the festival of San Giuseppe at the Catholic high school my dad worked at of the same name. Now, as an adult, but especially as a wife and mother, St. Joseph holds more meaning for me than the cannoli-laden plates of my youth.

What a role model our sons and husbands (and fathers) have in him. Given a culture that belittles the role of authentic fatherhood, St. Joseph is a beacon for those men, young and old, trying to find their way. Two wonderful articles are over at the Catholic Exchange. You can read one article here, and while you're at it, this is an oldie (from two years ago) but a real goodie!

Blessed Joseph, we come to you in our troubles and humbly beg you to help our family in our needs.
Watchful Guardian of the Holy Family, protect us from every worry and difficulty.
As once you rescued the Child Jesus, so now protect us. Shield us by your constant care so that we may be able to live with peace of mind and obtain eternal happiness.
Amen.