St. Joseph of Cupertino (Feast Day September 18)

June 17, 1603 – September 18, 1663

Joseph of Cupertino is most famous for levitating while praying. As a child, Joseph showed a fondness for prayer. After a short career with the Capuchins, he joined the Conventual Franciscans and began his studies for the priesthood. Although studies were challenging for him, Joseph gained much knowledge from prayer. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1628. Joseph’s tendency to levitate during prayer was sometimes a cross; people came to see this happen, much like a circus sideshow. Joseph’s gift led him to be humble, patient, and obedient, even though, at times, he was greatly tempted and felt forsaken by God. Joseph was canonized in 1767. Seventy incidents of levitation were recorded in the investigation preceding his canonization.

·      Who do the different people in the story represent (i.e., the landowner, servants, tenants, the son)?

·      What does the vineyard represent?

·      List some of the “fruit” that Jesus wants you to produce within your family or community.

·      School was difficult for St. Joseph of Cupertino. Share something that is difficult for you. Do you think God can help you with that? Why or why not?

Visit an Apple Orchard

Visit an apple orchard or your local farmer’s market to pick up some delicious produce. Enjoy a hayride or an outdoor stroll and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation!

7UP Chicken Marinade

This recipe won’t make you levitate like St. Joseph of Cupertino, but it is sure to lift you up!

2 cups 7UP

1 cup soy sauce

1 Tbsp horseradish (optional)

1/2 tsp minced garlic

1 cup oil

Chicken pieces

In a medium bowl, mix all ingredients together. Trim chicken, and poke holes with fork. Place chicken in a 9x13-inch pan, pour marinade over top, and cover. Place in fridge. Marinate 8 hours or overnight. Cook chicken thoroughly, in your desired manner.

Family Examen

St. Ignatius Loyola's Examen is an opportunity for peaceful daily reflective prayer. It invites us to find the movement of God in all the people and events of our day. The Examen is simply a set of reflective prompts. The prayer below is adapted for families. Lead your family in this Examen prayer:

1. For what time or event today are you most grateful (thankful/happy)?

(Initially, you may have to name a few things in a young child’s day to help them catch on to the practice for #1 and #2.)

2. For which moment are you least grateful?

3. How did you show love today?

(For very young children, you may ask additional questions as your family begins this spiritual practice. For example, who did you share with today? Who did you help today? It won’t be long before they understand the question and can reflect and respond without your assistance.)

4. What was one time your actions or behavior were negative or you withheld showing kindness? (Again, for young children you might ask: Was there a time you did not share today? Was there a time you said a hurtful word or did not help?)

5. Briefly give thanks for this time of reflection and sharing. Thank God for teaching each of you to be more loving.

Find the Confessional at your church. Which sacrament is celebrated in the confessional?

Often, we hear people say, “Oh my God” or “Jesus” in an irreverent way. This week, show respect to God by trying to not use the Lord’s name in vain.

When you go to confession, the priest is bound to secrecy! He cannot share anything said in confession to anyone. The Catechism of the Catholic Church says, “He can make no use of knowledge that confession gives him about penitents’ lives.” (CCC 1467)