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As we deepen our relationship with the Eternal Word, Jesus Christ, we grow in grace and are transformed by His love and mercy.
Dates unknown–first century
Patron Saint of the Universal Church, families, fathers, workers, a happy death, carpenters, engineers, craftsmen
St. Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, stands among the greatest saints in salvation history, entrusted with the care and safety of Jesus Christ and His Mother. Although little is recorded about his life, Scripture presents St. Joseph as a “righteous man,” faithful to God and obedient to His Will.
When St. Joseph learned that Mary was with child, he resolved to act with compassion. Through a divine message received in a dream, he accepted Mary as his wife and welcomed Jesus as his own son. St. Joseph protected the Holy Family during their flight into Egypt, where he found employment, and later also provided for them through his work as a carpenter in Nazareth.
Through his work as a skilled carpenter, St. Joseph’s humble service models the dignity of human work and the responsibility to care for the family. As a loving husband and father, he provided for his family’s needs and taught Jesus the carpentry trade. In silence, St. Joseph fulfilled his vocation, always mindful of the responsibility and trust God had placed in his hands.
The Church has long recognized St. Joseph as a powerful intercessor. In 1870, Pope Pius IX declared him Patron of the Universal Church, entrusting to him the care and protection of all the faithful. St. Joseph is recognized as a powerful intercessor, and devotion to him has continued to grow, with many saints throughout the centuries invoking his assistance.
Although Scripture does not record any words spoken by St. Joseph, his actions reveal his humility, obedience, courage, and selfless love. St. Joseph is especially honored as a patron of families, workers, and those seeking guidance. His quiet strength and unwavering faith continue to inspire the Church across generations.
Pope Pius IX named St. Joseph Patron of the Universal Church in 1870. Just as St. Joseph protected and provided for the Holy Family, the Church entrusts to him the care and protection of the entire Body of Christ. His role as Jesus’ guardian makes him a powerful advocate and intercessor for all believers. His role in providing for, teaching, and protecting Jesus and Mary mirrored his ongoing role in safeguarding the Church. In 1870, Pope Pius IX formally bestowed the title of Patron of the Universal Church on St. Joseph through a decree, Quemadmodum Deus, which entrusted the Church to his powerful intercession.
Although Scripture does not describe St. Joseph’s death, tradition holds that he died sometime before Jesus began His public ministry. His death would have occurred during Jesus’ “hidden years,” which span from age twelve to around age 30. St. Joseph is believed to have passed away in the presence of Jesus and Mary, according to tradition and confirmed by the visions of various mystics. St. Joseph is the patron saint of a happy death because he died in the company of Jesus and Mary in Nazareth. Tradition suggests he may have been elderly or weakened by hard labor, dying peacefully of natural causes, making his death an appropriate conclusion to a righteous life.
St. Joseph is depicted in Christian art as a father figure, either young or elderly, and holding the Christ Child. He is often shown with carpenter’s tools (such as a square, saw, or hammer) to signify his role as a provider. Other symbols include a staff that blooms with lilies or flowers, symbolizing purity. A sleeping figure depicts him receiving divine messages in dreams, often at the Nativity. He is sometimes portrayed as pensive or vigilant, kneeling or standing at the Nativity to emphasize his unique role as protector of the Holy Family. These images emphasize St. Joseph’s essential role as father, provider, guardian, and head of the Holy Family.
Prepare your soul for the glorious Resurrection with free weekly prayers and reflections from EWTN Chaplain Fr. Joseph Mary Wolfe, MFVA—exploring the healing power of Christ’s love. You’ll also receive weekly emails from Fr. Joseph beginning on Ash Wednesday, continuing each Sunday of Lent and Easter Sunday.
Draw closer to Our Lord as you pause, meditate, and return to Him with your whole heart.
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This is the only known apparition site in the history of the Church where St. Joseph is said to have spoken aloud. It is a place of particular importance for the family, especially fathers seeking divine guidance for their families.
Join Fr. Donald Calloway as he explains how St. Joseph can be both a guide and protector in our everyday lives.
Thomas and Helen teach their children about how St. Joseph was a protector of the family and an example of faith and obedience to God.
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As we deepen our relationship with the Eternal Word, Jesus Christ, we grow in grace and are transformed by His love and mercy.
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