Mar 19, About Today for St. Joseph, Husband of BVM, HM

March 19

Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Solemnity

Today is the Solemnity of St. Joseph, of the house of David. At the time of the Annunciation, he was working as a carpenter in Nazareth. He trusted his angelic vision, accepted Mary as his wife, and dutifully traveled to Bethlehem for the census. Later, he participated in the Presentation, led his family safely into Egypt and when called, faithfully returned to Nazareth. In other words, his decisions were integral in God’s plan for humanity and this holy man chose well. John Paul II honored Joseph in an exhortation entitled, Redemptoris Custos (Guardian of the Redeemer). In it, he discussed St. Joseph’s role in the plan of redemption and states, “’The obedience of faith’ must be given to God as he reveals himself. By this obedience of faith man freely commits himself entirely to God, making ‘the full submission of his intellect and will to God who reveals,’ and willingly assenting to the revelation given by him.’ This statement, which touches the very essence of faith, is perfectly applicable to Joseph of Nazareth.”[1][2][3]

Written by Sarah Ciotti
Reviewed by Fr. Hugh Feiss, OSB, STD
[1] *Catholicpedia: The Original Catholic Encyclopedia (1917) for iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch. s.v. “St. Joseph”
[2] John Paul II, Redemptoris Custos, August 15, 1989.
[3] Paul VI, Dei Verbum, November 18, 1965.