Patron Saints

St. Joseph, a revered figure in Christian tradition, is known as the earthly father of Jesus Christ and the husband of the Virgin Mary. According to the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, Joseph was a righteous and humble man, chosen by God to protect and care for Jesus and Mary. He was a descendant of King David, fulfilling the prophecy that the Messiah would come from David's lineage. Joseph worked as a carpenter, often seen as a symbol of honest labor and devotion.

When Joseph discovered that Mary was pregnant, an angel appeared to him in a dream, explaining that the child was conceived by the Holy Spirit. Trusting in God’s plan, he accepted his role as the foster father of Jesus. After Jesus’ birth, Joseph demonstrated great courage by taking his family to Egypt to protect Jesus from King Herod's decree to kill all male infants in Bethlehem. Later, after Herod’s death, he brought his family back to Nazareth, where Jesus grew up under his care.

St. Joseph is honored as the patron saint of fathers, workers, and the Universal Church. He is also invoked as the patron of a peaceful death, as it is believed that he passed away in the presence of Jesus and Mary. His feast days are celebrated on March 19 as St. Joseph, Husband of Mary, and on May 1 as St. Joseph the Worker, reflecting his role as a model of diligence and dedication.

St. Joseph is often depicted in Christian art holding a lily, symbolizing his purity and chaste relationship with Mary, and carpenter’s tools, representing his humble occupation. His life serves as an example of unwavering faith, quiet strength, and profound love for his family and God.