*We highlight these Saints to inspire our students and contribute to their growth in Catholic education by fostering understanding and appreciation for Catholic values and teachings. We encourage parents to share the stories of these Saints with their children to deepen their spirituality and motivate them to live their faith with conviction, following the examples of these admired role models.*
Who was the man chosen by God to raise His only Begotten Son? St. Joseph, revered as the patron saint of fathers, workers, and the Universal Church, plays a pivotal role in salvation history.
The exact details of St. Joseph’s birth and early life are unknown. We learn from Jesus’ genealogy (Matthew 1:16) that Joseph is from the lineage of David. Additionally, we know he was a carpenter and lived in Nazareth. At the time, it was common for fathers to teach their sons carpentry, so Joseph likely learned the trade from his own father. Carpentry was seen as a humble profession, requiring patience, attention to detail, and skill. It wasn’t pursued for status or wealth, but rather to provide for a family and live a simple, righteous life.
In the Gospel of Matthew (Mt 1:18), it is written that Joseph, devastated and confused, planned to quietly leave Mary when he discovered she was pregnant. However, an angel appeared to St. Joseph in a dream, revealing God’s significant purpose for his life: to serve as the provider and protector of the Holy Family. God entrusted him with the role of being the spouse of the Virgin Mary and the foster father of Jesus, the Son! With unwavering trust in his heavenly Father, Joseph obeyed the angel’s instructions and welcomed Mary into his home.
Joseph’s obedience also played a huge role in fulfilling prophecies and saving Jesus’ life! By obeying his government’s request for a census, he traveled with Mary to Bethlehem. This fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah regarding the Messiah’s birthplace! When there were no available rooms at the inn, Joseph assisted Mary while she gave birth to Jesus in the manger. Joseph’s obedience took center stage again when King Herod issued an order to kill all boys under the age of two in Bethlehem. Guided by an angel in a dream, Joseph swiftly led his family to Egypt, saving Jesus’ life!
“Fathers are not born, but made. … Whenever a man accepts responsibility for the life of another, in some way he becomes a father to that person.”
Pope Frances in his letter, With a Father’s Heart
St. Joseph is often overlooked because he never spoke a single word in the Gospels! Despite this fact, St. Joseph’s actions spoke volumes. He was a man of humility, obedience, and openness to God—the man whom God chose to raise His only Begotten Son.
In the time between Jesus’ childhood and ministry, Joseph spent the remainder of his life providing for the Holy Family through his carpentry, raising Jesus, supporting Mary, and protecting his Holy Family until the day God called him home. St. Joseph passed away before Jesus began his ministry at the age of 30.
God trusted Joseph – and He still does. In 1847, Pope Pius IX declared St. Joseph the Universal Patron and Protector of the Catholic Church. This declaration speaks to the timeless significance of Joseph’s calling. Just as God called St. Joseph to be the foster father and protector of Christ, He continues to call St. Joseph to be our father and protector too!
On this blessed feast day of St. Joseph, let us take after him by loving obedience. May the Lord always find us listening more than speaking, trusting Him with unwavering faith in His goodness, and our actions communicate the love in our hearts. As we seek St. Joseph’s intercession on this day, may we ask him to be with our fathers, teach us how to work fruitfully, and protect us and the entirety of Christ’s Body: the Church. St. Joseph, pray for us!
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FAMILY ACTIVITY: St. Joseph was Jesus’ earthly father. Pray as a family for the fathers and father-figures that have shaped your lives. Another great idea is to pray the St. Joseph Novena as a family. St Joseph is such a powerful intercessor!