CORD OF ST JOSEPH

The devotion of the “Cord of St. Joseph” began in Antwerp, Belgium in the year 1637.  There lived a pious nun of the Augustinian Order named Sister Elizabeth who was ill and suffered great pains for years. There came a time at which her doctors declared her death to be inevitable and imminent. Turning to the intercession of St. Joseph, she prayed for him to place her petitions before Christ. To show her faith in St. Joseph, she had a cord blessed in his honour, girded herself with it and prayed. A few days later she completely regained her health, to the astonishment and bewilderment of the all the doctors. Those who were acquainted with her illness declared her recovery miraculous; an act of authenticity was drawn up with a public notary and the doctor, who happened to be a Protestant, concurred. The miracle was recorded and published at Verona and Rome between 1810-42. During the month of March of the latter year, the Devotion to the Cord came into existence. Cords were blessed in the Church of St. Nicholas, Verona, for hospital patients.

These cords, now known as the “St. Joseph Cord” are knotted with 7 knots. They are worn as an act of faith and meditation on the 7 Sorrows and 7 Joys of St. Joseph. It is also worn as a reminder of purity, chastity and humility. Graces attributed to the wearing of this cord are as follows: St. Joseph’s special protection, purity of the soul, the grace of chastity, final perseverance and assistance at the hour of death.

For further information on the Cord of St Joseph, please visit Catholic Tradition HERE. 

For an audio devotional of the 7 Sorrows & 7 Joys of St Joseph, please visit the Apostolate of St Joseph HERE.