O glorious Saint Joseph,

who, on the word of the angel

speaking to you in the night,

put fear aside to take your Virgin Bride into your home,

show yourself today the advocate and protector of priests.

Protector of the Infant Christ,

defend them against every attack of the enemy,

preserve them from the dangers that surround them

on every side.

Remember Herod’s threats against the Child,

the anguish of the flight into Egypt by night,

and the hardships of your exile.

Stand by the accused;

stretch out your hand to those who have fallen;

comfort the fearful;

forsake not the weak;

and visit the lonely.

Let all priests know that in you

God has given them a model

of faith in the night, obedience in adversity,

chastity in tenderness, and hope in uncertainty.

You are the terror of demons

and the healer of those wounded in spiritual combat.

Come to the defense of every priest in need;

overcome evil with good.

Where there are curses, put blessings,

where harm has been done, do good.

Let there be joy for the priests of the Church,

and peace for all under your gracious protection.

Amen.