Responsory to St. Joseph

Ye that would live and die secure,
In merit strong, of mercy sure,
Choose Joseph for your heavenly friend
To guide your steps and bless your end.

He was sweet Mary’s consort dear,
And Jesus’ sire, when exiled here;
Just, true, of purity untold,
Say, shall he ask and God withhold?

He worshipp’d at the manger-bed,
And then the exile comforted;
And sought his Son, and joyous found,
While on His Father’s business bound.

He through sweet toil and patient pains
The world’s Artificer sustains;
And Whom th’ angelic legions praise
Obedience to His creature pays.

And now he waxes old, and dies;
But first beholds with loving eyes,
Jesus and Mary, gracious sight—
Then sleeps entranced in deep delight.

Ant. Behold the faithful and prudent servant whom the Lord set over His house.

V. Pray for us, holy Joseph.

R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.