Zeppole Morning

As many -- especially the Italians among us -- are well aware, today is the feast of St Joseph, the foster father of Jesus who Bl Pope Pius IX declared as patron of the universal church.

Along these lines, the following prayer -- its text believed to date from the first century -- has long been a house favorite:

Oh St. Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God, I place in you all my interest and desires. Oh St. Joseph, do asssist me by your powerful intercession, and obtain for me from your divine Son all spiritual blessings, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. So that, having engaged here below your heavenly power, I may offer my thanksgiving and homage to the most loving of Fathers. Oh St. Joseph, I never weary contemplating you, and Jesus asleep in your arms; I dare not approach while He reposes near your heart. Press Him in my name and kiss His fine head for me, and ask him to return the Kiss when I draw my dying breath. St. Joseph, Patron of departing souls, pray for me.

Say it for nine mornings, the story goes, and you'll find whatever you seek. Good luck!

And now, a zeppoli breakfast... and not soon enough.

Buona Festa to one and all.

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