Litany of St. Joseph
|
The Litany of Saint Joseph, approved for public use by Pope St. Pius X in 1909, shows the growing devotion to Saint Joseph which took place during the 20th century. It is modelled after the Litany of Loreto (Blessed Virgin Mary) and contains 21 invocations to St. Joseph which describe his virtues and the part he played as the foster father of Jesus - a perfect example of the Christian life. Fathers and families, in particular, should cultivate a devotion to Saint Joseph. Like all litanies, the Litany of Saint Joseph is designed to be recited communally, but it can be prayed alone. When recited in a group, one person should lead, and everyone else should make the italicized responses. Each response should be recited at the end of each line, until a new response is indicated. The Litany has a partial indulgence attached. Pope John XXIII (1958-63) also had a deep devotion to Saint Joseph, and he composed A Prayer for Workers, which is addressed to Saint Joseph. | ![]() |
