St Joseph is remembered for his compassion and righteousness. When he discovered Mary was pregnant, he planned to divorce her quietly, protecting her from shame and harm, as he was unaware she was carrying the Son of God. After an angel revealed the truth in a dream, Joseph immediately obeyed, taking Mary as his wife and embracing his role as the earthly father of Jesus (Matthew 1:19-25).
Joseph’s faith and devotion to God were unwavering. He uprooted his life to protect his family, fleeing to Egypt at the angel’s warning and remaining there until it was safe to return. He cared deeply for Jesus, ensuring his safety and raising him as his own, as seen when the people of Nazareth referred to Jesus as “the son of Joseph” (Luke 4:22). His obedience extended to observing God’s law, including annual Passover trips to Jerusalem, even as a working man.
We honor St. Joseph for his virtues of love, humility, and servant leadership. He is the patron of the peaceful death, the universal Church, fathers, carpenters, and social justice. Celebrated on March 19 as the Husband of Mary and on May 1 as the Worker, St. Joseph inspires us to live with faith and purpose. Our parish celebrates his spirit through the annual St. Joseph Award, given to members who exemplify his virtues of joy, generosity, and initiative.