World, 10 March 2021 -- The Novena to St Joseph in his special year declared by Pope Francis (Dec 8, 2020-Dec 8, 2021) is a good chance for each Salesian Community around the world to rekindle their relationship with this great Saint.

Probably the best idea for this year's Novena is to take the Apostolic Letter of Pope Francis (Patris Corde - The heart of the Father) with its 7 points: Saint Joseph as Beloved Father (1), as Tender and Loving Father (2), as Obedient Father (3), as Accepting Father (4), as Creatively Courageous Father (5), as Working Father (6) and as Father in the Shadows (7).

His statue or image can be found in most of our Salesian houses, especially in technical schools, vocational training centres or in relation to the Salesian Brothers or Administrators.

But the wonderful marble statue of Saint Joseph (Made in China, 550 kg), found here in the heart of Africa (Chingola - Africa) is really shining in the sunlight and inviting all Bosconian students to pray. The blessing of the Saint Joseph Statue in this community of Chingola (Rector Fr. Leszek Aksamit) on the first day of the Novena is one the greatest moments of this Year of St Joseph.

Prayer to St Joseph (by Pope Francis)

Hail, Guardian of the Redeemer,

Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

To you God entrusted his only Son;

in you Mary placed her trust;

with you Christ became man.

Blessed Joseph, to us too,

show yourself a father

and guide us in the path of life.

Obtain for us grace, mercy and courage

and defend us from every evil. Amen.