# Consecration to Saint Joseph – Day One
*2020-02-16*

> Bill Young introduces a 33‑day consecration to Saint Joseph, explains the purpose and resources, and shares several prayers from Father Donald Callaway’s book.

## Why a Consecration to Saint Joseph?

Consecrating ourselves to Saint Joseph helps us grow in virtue, imitate his paternal love, and draw closer to Jesus and Mary. As St. Bernard reminds us, Joseph is the “increaser” who can raise our souls to greater heights. In a world where families and the Church face many attacks, Saint Joseph’s protection and example are needed now more than ever.

## The 33‑Day Plan

Because 2020 is a leap year, the 33‑day period begins today, February 16, and ends on the Feast of Saint Joseph, March 19. After the consecration we can celebrate the Mass on that feast day. The program follows Father Donald Callaway’s book, which builds on Saint Louis de Montfort’s 33‑day Marian devotion and adds specific prayers to Saint Joseph. The book is available as an e‑reader for about $10, making it easy to carry and read anywhere.

## Key Prayers from Day One

Bill reads several prayers from the book, including:

• A prayer invoking the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with love and cleanse our sins.
• A prayer for the salvation of a specific soul (e.g., Gregory), asking Saint Joseph to intercede for conversion and protection.
• “St. Joseph, Terror of Demons,” a petition for protection against evil.
• A long hymn of praise that honors Joseph as father of God, guardian of the Holy Family, and model of humility and obedience.
• A simple prayer asking Saint Joseph to watch over the petitioner’s child and present the request to the Virgin Mary.

## Practical Tips and Next Steps

Bill recommends obtaining the book (or e‑reader version) to follow the full 33‑day program, but the prayers he shared can be used immediately. He notes that if you miss a few days you can catch up, and that the consecration can also be done on other feast days of Saint Joseph (e.g., March 30, the Feast of Saint Joseph the Worker). He also mentions a novena to Saint Joseph that Father Michael Gately provides, which can be prayed nine days before the feast.

*Consecrating ourselves to Saint Joseph can bring spiritual growth, family protection, and a deeper union with Christ and Mary.*