Saint Joseph

Feast Days: March 19th, May 1st

Patron Saint of the Universal Church, unborn children, fathers, workers, travelers, immigrants and a happy death.

Saint Joseph is our spiritual Father. By following his examples, you entrust yourself into his care so that he can help you acquire his virtues and become holy. He was obedient to God’s commands and is a Model for Missionaries.

Saint Joseph reminds us of the dignity of work. Although there is little known about the father of Jesus, we do know that he was a carpenter, a working man, for the skeptical Nazarenes ask about Jesus, “Is this not the carpenter’s son?” Matthew 13:55 Saint Joseph was a gracious man, especially at his work; one that never asked for payment, but pleasantly accepted anything that was provided. This shows a great respect and faith in God, as he believed God would provide for him and the Holy Family. An example of this is in the gifts presented by the Magi to Jesus. They helped provide for them during their long trip, when there was nothing else available.

This doesn’t mean that Saint Joseph did not work hard – he knew he was responsible for the Son of God and his Mother! Joseph labored, both physically and spiritually to be the human father of God. Missionaries feel akin to Saint Joseph, as they must also work hard to bring the Word of God to others, help to take care of their needs, all the while, trusting in God’s providence. When an Angel came to tell Saint Joseph that his family was in danger, he immediately left everything he owned, all his family and friends, and fled to a strange country with his young wife and the baby. In Egypt, knowing no one and surrounded by people who believed in many gods, he found ways to support his family. He was a living example of his faith and brought this to others. He and the Holy Family were one of God’s first Missionaries. Missionaries following God’s command, leave their family, friends and life behind, to serve and to bring the Good News of Jesus to others.

Saint Joseph, just like Missionaries around the world today, also shows us how to protect and provide for others. This was true throughout his entire life. From the beginning, he safeguarded
Mary’s reputation preserving her life, he protected Jesus from Herod and he continued to guard, to defend and keep holy watch over the Child Jesus and his mother, Mary. We know Joseph loved Jesus. His one concern was for the safety of this child entrusted to him. Not only did he leave his home to protect Jesus, but upon his return settled in the obscure town of Nazareth out of fear for his life. When Jesus remained in the Temple, we are told Joseph and Mary, searched with great anxiety for three days for him. Luke 2:48 Missionaries provide protection for children and their families who live in poverty.

INTERESTING FACT: Did you know that Saint Joseph has no quotes in the Bible? Usually, Missionary Saints are known for preaching and evangelizing, but he proves, just like our Patroness Saint Therese, that being quiet in prayer is also a great way of being Missionary.