SCRIPTURE

Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.

Matthew 1:18-21, 24
 

SILENT REFLECTION

 

PRAYER

Fatherhood has its origins in God,
and so we pray to you, Father Almighty,
for those men who have adopted a child.

Give them a mind receptive to your guidance,
a patient voice, and a loving heart.

May they know the joy of following your will and
reflecting your constant and steady love.

Grant this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
 

PETITION TO ST. JOSEPH

St. Joseph, adoptive father of Jesus,
you, too, welcomed a child into your home
because you were obedient to the plan of God.

Give encouragement to all adoptive fathers,
that with the support of their wives,
they might know the joy that comes
from serving as guardian, father, and protector.

St. Joseph, patron of fathers, pray for us.
 

CONCLUDING PRAYERS

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be

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