With the Apostolic Letter “Patris corde” (“With a Father’s Heart”), Pope Francis recalls the 150th anniversary of the declaration of Saint Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church. To mark the occasion, the Holy Father has proclaimed a “Year of Saint Joseph” from December 8, 2020, to December 8, 2021.
The Holy Father wrote Patris corde against the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic, which, he says, has helped us see more clearly the importance of “ordinary” people who, though far from the limelight, exercise patience and offer hope every day. In this, they resemble Saint Joseph, “the man who goes unnoticed, a daily, discreet and hidden presence,” who nonetheless played “an incomparable role in the history of salvation.”
Visit Our Patron Saint page to delve into all things Saint Joseph
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PSR At Home Hub
During the COVID-19 Pandemic, families will be spending more time together at home. One good use of this time would be to pray together on a regular basis. This prayer time together can be enhanced by creating a place in your home dedicated to prayer.
Making a place for prayer in our home can help us do what the Gospel tells us, to go into an “inner room” to pray (Matthew 6:6). Make your prayer place as quiet, uncluttered, and “desert-like” as possible. It can be the corner of a room or any unused space. Furnish your prayer place with a Bible, prayer books, cross, rosary, icons, and a candle. Encourage family members to use the prayer place for personal as well as family prayer. You can bless your place of prayer, saying:
Come, Holy God. Dwell in this place of prayer,
and bless it with your peace and presence.
Bless all who seek you here.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
This is the official international Catholic relief and development agency of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Responding to major emergencies, fighting disease and poverty, and nurturing peaceful and just societies and serving Catholics in the United States as they live their faith in solidarity with their brothers and sisters around the world.
This parish organization serves the needs of Portage County guided by the Corporal Works of Mercy . . .
“For I was hungry and you gave me
something to eat, . . . Feed the Hungry
I was thirsty and you gave me
something to drink, . . .
Give Drink to the Thirsty
I was a stranger and you invited me in,
. . . Shelter the Homeless
I needed clothes and you clothed me,
. . . Clothe the Naked
I was sick and you looked after me,
. . . Comfort the Sick
I was in prison and you came to visit me.”
. . . Visit the Imprisoned
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Catholic Charities, Diocese of Youngstown extends the love and compassion of Jesus Christ to those who are poor, vulnerable, and without hope. Through tangible assistance and other essential services, Catholic Charities affirms human dignity, meets basic human needs, strengthens families, builds communities, and empowers others to transform their lives.
The Diocese of Youngstown's Department for Social Concerns overseas the Annual Bishop’s Appeal, a diocesan wide initiative taking place during the season of Lent, that calls the entire Church Family to minister to all those seeking assistance. Your gifts of time, talent and treasure allow us to extend the ministry of Jesus Christ each and every day.