Saint Joseph, the foster father of Jesus and husband of Mary, is celebrated by the Church on March 19 every year. Recently, Pope Francis declared the year from December 8, 2020 to December 8, 2021 as the "Year of Saint Joseph" to mark the 150th anniversary of Joseph's declaration as the patron of the universal Church.
Joseph was a carpenter in Nazareth and was known for his great compassion and faith. He did not hesitate to do God's will, as seen when an angel appeared to him in a dream and revealed the truth about Mary and the child she was carrying. Joseph married Mary immediately, without questioning the angel's words.
Later, an angel appeared to Joseph once again, warning him that his family was in danger. Joseph promptly took Mary and Jesus to Egypt to protect them, returning to Nazareth only when the angel gave him the all-clear. Joseph also took Mary and Jesus to celebrate the Passover in Jerusalem every year, despite the difficulties posed by his work.
Joseph loved Jesus deeply and did everything possible to ensure his safety and well-being. He even worried very much when Jesus was left behind in the temple one day and couldn't be found.
Although Joseph is not mentioned during Jesus' public ministry, suffering, death, and resurrection, he remains an exemplary figure for his steadfast faith and obedience to God's will. Joseph's life shows us the importance of creative courage and paternal love, as well as the dignity and value of work, as emphasized in the Apostolic Letter Patris corde.
