Saint Joseph: husband of Mary and patron of the Church
Saint Joseph, husband of the Virgin Mary and legal father of Jesus, is one of the most revered figures in the Church and the universal patron. «Just man» (Mt 1,19), silent guardian of the Redeemer, he is also the patron of the Church, workers, and a good death. This guide introduces his figure and the devotion the Church has dedicated to him – the central theme of Josefology.
Husband of Mary and father of Jesus
Saint Joseph, of the house of David, was the true husband of Mary and the legal father of Jesus, ensuring him Davidic descent. The Infancy Gospels (Mt 1-2) depict him receiving God’s will in dreams: he accepts Mary, gives Jesus his name, and protects the Holy Family’s flight to Egypt. His fatherhood is real, yet virgin – exercised in love and guardianship.
The «Just Man»
Matthew calls him «just» (Mt 1,19): obedient to the Law and submissive to God’s voice. His sanctity is that of faithful silent obedience and faith’s submission, parallel to Mary’s «yes» at the Annunciation.
Patron of the Universal Church
In 1870, Pope Pius IX declared Saint Joseph Patron of the Universal Church. He is also the patron of workers (May 1) and a good death. In 2020-2021, Pope Francis proclaimed the Year of Saint Joseph with the letter Patris Corde. His feast day is celebrated on March 19.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Saint Joseph Jesus’s father?
He was the legal and adoptive father, true husband of Mary; not his biological father, as Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit.
When is Saint Joseph celebrated?
His feast day is celebrated on March 19 (solemnity) and May 1 (Saint Joseph Worker).
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