SOLEMNITY OF ST JOSEPH, SPOUSE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY MARCH 19, 2025
- Olivia M. Bannan
- Mar 19, 2025
- 2 min read
Gospel
Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ. Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus ,because he will save his people from their sins. ”When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.
REFLECTION
“He did as the angel of the Lord commanded…”
With so many clamoring for attention—newsmakers, athletes, politicians, actors, billionaires— we tend to overlook the unnoticed, the quiet, the discreet, the prayerful.
In the Apostolic Letter Patris Corde (with a Father’s heart)(1) we are led by Pope Francis to reflect on St Joseph. He was the spouse of Mary and the earthly father of the Incarnate Word.
Making their home in Galilee, St Joseph taught Jesus to be obedient to His parents, to follow the Commandments and do His Father’s will. He taught Him the value of work.
Anexample for a respectful, caring , loving husband to Mary, he protected her good name, dignity, and helped her follow God’s will.
He set aside his own plans, ideas and expectations.
The angel revealed the name of Jesus to St Joseph—“you shall call His Name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21)
On December 8, 1870, Blessed Pius IX proclaimed him Patron of the Catholic Church.
Every Wednesday, special prayers are said to St Joseph. The whole month of March is dedicated to him. He shows us the spiritual path to acceptance.
As the universal patron of all, he is known by many names. Here are some of the many...
Light of Patriarchs Mirror of patience
Chaste guardian of the Virgin Glory of home life
Diligent protector of Christ Guardian of virgins
Head of the Holy Family Hope of the sick
Joseph most just Patron of the dying
Joseph most chaste Terror of demons
Joseph most strong Joseph most obedient
Visit our website for the Litany to St Joseph
Well done, good and faithful servant. Come, share your master's joy.
God Bless You.
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