The Speciality of St Joseph

GOSPEL THOUGHTS*

*Lenten Season: Second Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 1:16, 18-21, 24a*

*First Reading : 2 Sm 7:4-5a, 12-14a, 16*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 89:2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29*

*Second Reading : Rom 4:13, 16-18, 22*

*The Speciality of St Joseph*

*1) Patron of the Universal Church*

Declared by Pope Pius IX in 1870, St. Joseph is the protector and guardian of the entire Catholic Church, just as he was of the Holy Family.

*2) Protector of Families*

As the earthly father of Jesus and the spouse of the Virgin Mary, St. Joseph is honored as a model for fathers and a protector of homes and families.

*3) Patron of Workers*

St. Joseph was a carpenter, and he exemplifies the dignity of labor and the importance of honest, hard work. 

Pope Pius XII established May 1 as the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker.

*4) Model of Chastity and Purity*

St. Joseph is venerated as a model of purity and virtue, especially in his celibate marriage to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

*5) Patron of a Happy Death*

 

Tradition holds that St. Joseph died in the presence of Jesus and Mary, making him the patron of those seeking a peaceful and holy death.

*6) Protector of the Unborn and Expectant Mothers*

Because he cared for Mary during her pregnancy with Jesus, many pray to St. Joseph for the protection of unborn children and mothers.

*7) Helper of the Needy and Homeless*

Since he provided for Mary and Jesus despite challenges, St. Joseph is often invoked by those struggling with poverty or seeking housing.

*St Joseph Pray for Us*

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*