Who is Saint Joseph?

Do you know that it’s the feast of St. Joseph today? Are you wearing (or did you wear) read? On a Catholic calendar, there is at least one saint per day. I enjoy seeing them each day and sometimes wonder about their life and wonder what they are the patron saint of and why should I pray to them?

I’m sure you have heard of St. Joseph, he is the father and protector of Jesus. What strikes me about him is that there is no record of any of his words in the Bible. We don’t even have a record of his death. What we do know is that he had dreams where angels appeared and counseled him. He followed the advice each time- take Mary into his home, flee to Egypt, then go home. He followed God’s word and counsel and was instrumental in the life of Jesus, yet we know so little.

I think this happens frequently in life. There is a person in the background without whom certain events would not have happened, but we never learn their name. They are the “best supporting actors”; they are not the star of the story. If Joseph had divorced Mary, the entire history of the world would be changed.

I don’t know about you, but I have played that role a time or two in my life and it’s not about the glory or the recognition. It’s about the fulfilment of something greater than myself. Something I cannot accomplish on my own, but I can contribute to the greater good. My role is to assist, counsel, support- not do it. Sounds a lot like a parent, doesn’t it? (or a teacher, LOL)

In case you are unaware, St. Joseph is the patron saint of the Universal Church, workers, fathers, families, and a happy death. If you need a job, there is a novena for that. Looking for a spouse? There is a novena for that. Want to sell your home? You guessed it- there is a novena for that! (and specific directions on what to do with the statue). I can say that I have prayed two of the three. Results are never instant, it’s all in God’s time.

Today I pause to honor St. Joseph and his role in Jesus’ and Mary’s lives. He protected and provided for them. He is a model for our fathers, and he can show us how to be the vessel though which God can work if only we say yes. St. Joseph, pray for us.