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Background::
Francis Xavier Cullinan (1906-1930) was considered to be an example for young people who belonged to the Diocese of Rochester, New York. In the course of his short life, he wrote several articles for the Arete - a diocesan paper. He also wrote the above poem.

Although it may be impossible to obtain any personal accounts of this young priest, he is remembered in Rochester to this day as somewhat of a saintly person. It was said that at the lake where he drowned, a number of miracles have taken place. He was considered for canonization by the Holy See and the progress of this spiritual honor is ongoing.

What Holy Joseph Said "Tell me, Mary, why He cries. Does the fire smoke hurt His eyes? Does the Ox's big white face Seem to him a dread grimace? Can it be the donkey's ears Scare from him those tiny tears? Think it that the winter-wind In His swaddling room may find? Tell me, Mary, whe He cries: Let me hold Him.--dry His eyes." "Joseph dear, you wonder why? Joseph, all little babies cry!" "Sing to Him, my Mary dear Whisper sweetness in His ear Sing to Him--Ah! How He smiles! How His baby laugh beguiles All our loveness home to One! Sweeter than our April Sun Smiling through a passing shower Sweeter than a dew-kissed flower Surely Mary, can it be Other babes can smile as He!" "Joseph, I'm surprised at you! Other babes make laughter too." --Francis X. Cullinan, S.J.