Read: Matthew 1:18-25 http://bible.oremus.org/?ql=190602753
Part of the new construction completed when the Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe, NM was finished in 1878, was a choir loft twenty-two feet above the floor. There was only one problem, the builders had not included anyway to access the lofty balcony in their construction. Carpenters were called in to address the problem, but they all concluded access to the loft would have to be via ladder as a staircase would interfere way too much with the interior space of the small Chapel. Not a very good option for nuns dressed in habits.
Legend says that to find a solution to the seating problem, the Sisters of the Chapel made a novena (a prayer repeated on nine successive days, asking to obtain special graces) to St. Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters. On the ninth and final day of prayer, a man appeared at the Chapel with a donkey and a toolbox looking for work. Months later, the elegant circular staircase was completed, and the carpenter disappeared without pay or thanks. After searching for the man (an ad even ran in the local newspaper) and finding no trace of him, some concluded that he was St. Joseph himself, having come in answer to the sisters' prayers.
Legend says that to find a solution to the seating problem, the Sisters of the Chapel made a novena (a prayer repeated on nine successive days, asking to obtain special graces) to St. Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters. On the ninth and final day of prayer, a man appeared at the Chapel with a donkey and a toolbox looking for work. Months later, the elegant circular staircase was completed, and the carpenter disappeared without pay or thanks. After searching for the man (an ad even ran in the local newspaper) and finding no trace of him, some concluded that he was St. Joseph himself, having come in answer to the sisters' prayers.
Over the years many have flocked to the Loretto Chapel to see the Miraculous Staircase. The staircase has been the subject of many articles, TV specials, and movies including "Unsolved Mysteries" and the television movie titled "The Staircase."
Seeing the staircase several years ago and hearing its legendary story, I was struck by how little I knew about Joseph, husband of Mary, earthly father of Jesus. This week we focus on Joseph, who he was as a person and the role he played in our Nativity story. I invite you to begin our week by reading again Matthew 1:18-25.
What do we know about Joseph and what do we assume about him because of stories we have heard through the years? How would you describe Joesph? Why do you think God chose Joseph to be Jesus' earthly father?
Lots of good questions! I hope you will join us each day this week as we dig deeper into the story of Joseph.
Advent Blessings,
Rich
I invite you to read more about this miraculous staircase at http://www.lorettochapel.com/staircase.html
I invite you to read more about this miraculous staircase at http://www.lorettochapel.com/staircase.html
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