St. Joseph
Foster Father of Jesus, Patron of the Universal Church
Feast Day: March 19
Biography
St. Joseph is one of the most beloved saints in the Catholic Church. A descendant of the royal house of David, he was a humble carpenter in Nazareth chosen by God for the most extraordinary vocation in history: to serve as the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the earthly guardian of the Son of God. Though Sacred Scripture records none of his words, his actions speak volumes about his character — a man of deep faith, quiet courage, and unwavering obedience to God's will. When the angel appeared in his dreams, he trusted without hesitation. He protected the Holy Family during the dangerous flight into Egypt, provided for them through his labor, and raised Jesus in the practice of the Jewish faith and the craft of carpentry. Pope Pius IX declared him Patron of the Universal Church in 1870. Pope Francis consecrated the year 2021 to St. Joseph. He is patron of workers, fathers, the dying, and the Universal Church.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
O St. Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God, I place in you all my interests and desires. O St. Joseph, assist me by your powerful intercession and obtain for me from your divine Son all spiritual blessings through Jesus Christ, our Lord, so that having engaged here below your heavenly power, I may offer my thanksgiving and homage to the most loving of fathers. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Joseph, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Joseph, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.