Mercy & Contrition
Prayer for a Happy Death
This traditional prayer invokes Saint Joseph as the patron of a happy death. Catholic tradition holds that Joseph died in the presence of Jesus and Mary, making him a special intercessor for the dying. The prayer asks for the grace to face death faithfully and to commend one’s soul to the Holy Family. The short invocations that follow are often prayed for the dying or repeated as personal preparation for death. The Church encourages Christians to prepare for the hour of death and to ask the Mother of God and Saint Joseph for their intercession, as reflected in CCC 1014.
O Blessed Joseph, who didst yield thy last breath in the arms of Jesus and Mary, obtain for me this grace, O holy Joseph, that I may breathe forth my soul in praise, saying in spirit, if I am unable to do so in words: “Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, I give you my heart and my soul.” Amen.
Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, I give you my heart and my soul.
Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, assist me in my last agony.
Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, may I breathe forth my soul in peace with you. Amen.
When to pray it: Pray this regularly in preparation for death, and especially for those who are gravely ill or nearing their final hour.
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