Solemnity of Joseph, Husband of Mary

HAPPY DEATH

 

... Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called Christ. – Matthew 1:16

 

       St. Joseph is the patron saint of a happy death. According to catholictradition.org, he is the patron saint of the dying for three reasons: First, he is the foster father of our Eternal Judge. Two, he is the terror of demons and the conqueror of hell. And three, his was the most beautiful of deaths because he died in the arms of Jesus and Mary.

       Because a couple of family members have recently been hospitalized with life-threatening conditions, I’ve been reflecting that a happy death is not just for the dying person but also for those who suffer with him throughout his sickness. Those who’ve cared for terminally ill family members know how emotionally, financially and physically draining it can be to watch a loved one suffer. It’s easier to pray that the Lord spare them of the pain and swiftly take them into His bosom.

       My recent meditations have caused me to start praying that the Lord grant me and my loved ones a timely, peaceful and happy death. Rissa Singson Kawpeng (justbreatherissa@gmail.com)

 

Reflection: “The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.” (Mark Twain)

 

St. Joseph, in the hour of my death, remove from me every kind of sin. Prepare me and my loved ones for that glorious time when we surrender our spirits to Jesus. Amen.

 

St. Joseph, husband of Mary, principal patron of Canada, pray for us.