Solemnity of Saint Joseph: The Husband of the Virgin Mary

March 19th marks the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, the husband of the Virgin Mary and the foster father of Jesus. The Catholic Church honors Saint Joseph as a model of faith, humility, and obedience to God’s will. As the earthly father of Christ, he played a vital role in salvation history, providing for and protecting the Holy Family.

In this article, we reflect on the life of Saint Joseph, a man of unwavering faith, silent strength, and profound humility—qualities that make him a model for all Christians.

The Role of Saint Joseph in Salvation History

Saint Joseph’s mission was extraordinary. Though he never spoke a word recorded in Scripture, his actions spoke volumes. God chose him to be the protector of Mary and Jesus, entrusting him with a sacred responsibility. When the angel appeared to Joseph in a dream, telling him to take Mary as his wife, he obeyed without hesitation (Matthew 1:20-24). His trust in God’s plan never wavered, even when it meant fleeing to Egypt to protect the Christ Child from King Herod (Matthew 2:13-15).

Joseph’s role as Jesus’ earthly father provided Him with love, guidance, and a model of human virtue. As a carpenter, he taught Jesus the dignity of labor, instilling in Him the values of hard work and perseverance. Through his example, Joseph demonstrated what it means to be a righteous man—one who listens to God and follows His will with complete trust.

Saint Joseph, Terror of Demons

One of Saint Joseph’s most powerful titles is “Terror of Demons.” This title reflects his spiritual strength and authority in protecting souls from evil:

As the head of the Holy Family, Saint Joseph safeguarded Jesus and Mary, standing as a protector against both spiritual and physical dangers. The devil fears him because of his deep humility, purity, and absolute trust in God. He embodies the virtues that repel evil—faithfulness, righteousness, and obedience to divine will.

Many Catholics invoke Saint Joseph, Terror of Demons in spiritual warfare, asking for his intercession in times of temptation, fear, or struggles with sin. His quiet strength reminds us that true power lies not in forceful words, but in steadfast trust in God.

Patron of the Universal Church

Recognizing his vital role, the Church honors Saint Joseph as the Patron of the Universal Church. Pope Pius IX declared this title in 1870, entrusting the Church to his intercession. Just as Joseph protected the Holy Family, he continues to watch over Christ’s Mystical Body, guiding the faithful toward deeper trust in God.

Saint Joseph’s patronage extends to many aspects of life. He is the patron of fathers, workers, families, the dying, and all who seek his intercession. His quiet yet powerful presence offers comfort to those who struggle with uncertainty, reminding them to trust in God’s providence.

Saint Joseph’s Example of Humility and Obedience

Saint Joseph’s life teaches profound lessons in humility. Though chosen for an extraordinary mission, he remained hidden, content to serve without seeking recognition. His humility was not weakness but strength—a complete surrender to God’s will. He did not question God’s plan but embraced it with courage and faith.

His obedience stands as a model for all believers. Joseph listened to God in silence and acted without delay. He teaches us to listen for God’s voice and respond with a willing heart. In a world filled with noise and distractions, his example calls us to deepen our trust in God’s divine plan.

Devotion to Saint Joseph

Catholics worldwide foster devotion to Saint Joseph, seeking his powerful intercession. Many pray the Litany of Saint Joseph (listen for free on the Hallow app), the Seven Sorrows and Joys of Saint Joseph, and the Novena to Saint Joseph, asking for his help in their needs.

Pope Francis declared the Year of Saint Joseph (2020-2021), encouraging the faithful to rediscover his role in the Church and in their personal lives. His apostolic letter Patris Corde (With a Father’s Heart) (affiliate) beautifully reflects on Saint Joseph’s virtues, inviting all to imitate his fatherly love and trust in God.

How to Celebrate the Solemnity of Saint Joseph

The Solemnity of Saint Joseph is a day of joy and gratitude. Here are some ways to honor him:

• Attend Mass: The highest form of worship, the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, is the perfect way to honor Saint Joseph and seek his intercession.
• Pray the Litany of Saint Joseph (affiliate): This powerful prayer invokes his protection and guidance.
• Reflect on his virtues: Spend time meditating on Joseph’s humility, obedience, and silent strength.
• Perform acts of charity: Saint Joseph cared for his family with love and dedication. Helping those in need is a beautiful way to imitate his spirit.
• Share a Saint Joseph’s Table: In some traditions, especially among Italian Catholics, families prepare a meal in his honor, often including bread, pasta, and other symbolic foods.

Go Deeper: A Book Recommendation for Men (or the Men in Your Life)

Saint Joseph stands as the ideal role model for Catholic men striving to live with integrity, faith, and strength. If you’re looking for a practical way to encourage the men in your life to grow spiritually, consider gifting them The Catholic Manbook (affiliate).

I purchased this book because I loved the simplicity of the cover (and the inclusion of the St. Louis de Montfort Marian Consecration). 🙂 What I discovered inside was so much more. This powerful resource provides guidance on living as a Catholic man in today’s world, drawing inspiration from Scripture, Church teachings, and the example of Saint Joseph:

With reflections on virtues like humility, courage, and perseverance, The Catholic Manbook helps men cultivate a deeper prayer life, embrace their responsibilities, and become stronger spiritual leaders in their families and communities.

The Catholic ManBook is a guide for men seeking authentic masculinity. It is a compilation of ALL the prayers and devotions that every Catholic man will need as he strives daily for sainthood. The ManBook also includes an updated day-by-day Marian Consecration by St. Louis de Montfort.

Saint Joseph: A Model for Our Lives

In today’s world, Saint Joseph remains a shining example of faith and devotion. He teaches us to trust in God’s plan, even when we do not fully understand it. His humility, obedience, and deep love for Jesus and Mary inspire us to live our own vocations with fidelity.

As we celebrate his solemnity, let us turn to Saint Joseph, asking for his intercession in our lives. May he guide us to a deeper love for Christ and a greater trust in God’s providence.

Saint Joseph, guardian of the Redeemer, pray for us!

Resources:

• EWTN: Decree, St. Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church
• The Life of Saint Joseph as Seen by the Mystics (affiliate)
• Consecration to St. Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father (affiliate)