Monday 20 March

St Joseph, Husband of Mary

1 Samuel 7:4-5, 12-14, 16; Palm 89; Romans 4:13, 16-18, 22; Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24

An under-rated saint?

Joseph the carpenter, an under-rated saint? Even the title for his feast day suggests his only claim to sainthood is his being Mary’s husband. But he was much, much more than that. He was Jesus’ earthly father. He loved, protected and raised Jesus as his own son. He taught him all the things a Dad teaches his son. As Mary is the mother of God, Joseph is the step-father of God. Joseph, a model for husbands and fathers, a man of compassion, faithfulness, trust and generosity of heart. A great saint to whom to pray, for much more than just fine weather!