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Mar 19th, 2023 | The 23rd Times

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Feast of St. Joseph

On Sunday, March, 19, we celebrate the Feast of St. Joseph. This feast has been recognized in Western Christianity since the tenth century.

St. Joseph is regarded as the patron saint of several regions across the globe, including Austria, Croatia and Vietnam, as well as being the patron saint of workers.

We honor St. Joseph, the husband of Mary and stepfather of Jesus. This holiday takes place during Lent, a time of fasting, and the holiday is traditionally a meatless feast.

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History of St. Joseph’s Day

St. Joseph was the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the foster father of Jesus. All we know about Joseph comes from the accounts of the nativity in the New Testament.

He was a tradesman. Commonly he is said to have been a carpenter, but it’s possible he may have been a stone worker. He was said to have been a direct descendent of David, the great king of Israel.

Since Joseph is not mentioned in any accounts of Jesus’ public life, his crucifixion, or resurrection, it is thought that Joseph died before Jesus started preaching.

St. Joseph is the patron saint of the Catholic Church, unborn children, fathers, immigrants, workers, Vietnam and the Philippines.

Despite knowing little about Joseph, he still has two feast days in the Western church. In his capacity as the patron saint of Workers, 1st May was established as the Feast of “St. Joseph the Worker” in 1955. This is seen as an attempt to counteract the social and non-religious growth of Labor Day as a worldwide holiday.

Prayer to St. Joseph

Hail, Guardian of the Redeemer, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. To you God entrusted his only Son; in you Mary placed her trust; with you Christ became man. Blessed Joseph, to us too, show yourself a father and guide us in the path of life. Obtain for us grace, mercy, and courage, and defend us from every evil. Amen.