Saint Joseph, depicted in various artworks such as Guido Reni's portrayal with the Infant Jesus around 1635, is recognized across Christian denominations as the spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the legal father of Jesus. He holds the titles of Prince and Patron of the Universal Church and Guardian of the Holy Family. His veneration extends across all Christian denominations that venerate saints.

 

Feasts dedicated to Saint Joseph include the Solemnity on March 19, celebrated in Western Christianity, and the Memorial of Saint Joseph the Worker on May 1 in the Catholic Church. Additionally, Eastern Christianity observes his feast on the Sunday after the Nativity of the Lord.

 

Saint Joseph is often depicted with symbols such as a carpenter's square or tools, holding the infant Jesus Christ, a staff with lily blossoms, two turtle doves, and a rod of spikenard. He is revered as the patron of various groups including fathers, workers, married people, individuals living in exile, the sick, and those facing death.

 

Joseph, a 1st-century Jewish man from Nazareth, is venerated as Saint Joseph in the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, Oriental Orthodox Church, Anglicanism, and Lutheranism. He is acknowledged as the patron saint of workers and is associated with several feast days, with March dedicated to him. Pope Pius IX declared him the patron and protector of the Catholic Church, emphasizing his role in Jesus and Mary's lives. Joseph's images, often adorned with lilies or spikenard, have been canonically coronated.

 

The New Testament Gospels of Matthew and Luke present Joseph's lineage and his role in Jesus' life. Matthew's account focuses on Joseph's obedience to divine guidance, including the flight to Egypt to protect Jesus from Herod's decree. Luke portrays Joseph's residence in Nazareth and Jesus' birth in Bethlehem due to a census. While Joseph's presence diminishes in the Gospels after Jesus' childhood, he remains a central figure in Christian tradition and theology.

 

Joseph's occupation as a tekton, traditionally translated as "carpenter," is noted in the Gospels. However, scholars suggest the term might encompass various skilled crafts. Modern interpretations view Joseph as a wise and learned figure, reflecting the context of his time in Nazareth.

 

The canonical Gospels pose theological questions regarding Joseph's relationship with Mary and Jesus. While Joseph's paternity is crucial for establishing Jesus' Davidic descent, various interpretations exist regarding his familial ties and role in Jesus' life. The perpetual virginity of Mary underscores Joseph's unique role as her husband and Jesus' legal father.

 

Saint Joseph's veneration has grown over time, with significant theological discussions and devotions dedicated to him. Pope John Paul II's 1989 document "Redemptoris Custos" emphasized Joseph's role in redemption, contributing to the development of Josephology.

 

Feast days dedicated to Saint Joseph, such as March 19 and May 1, are celebrated with various customs, prayers, and devotions across Christian traditions. Saint Joseph's role as the patron of workers is highlighted on May 1, coinciding with International Workers' Day.

 

Pope Francis declared a Year of Saint Joseph from December 8, 2020, to December 8, 2021, commemorating the 150th anniversary of Pius IX's declaration of Saint Joseph as patron of the Universal Church. Saint Joseph's patronage extends to fathers, families, workers, expecting mothers, and others seeking his intercession.

 

Numerous places, churches, and institutions worldwide are dedicated to Saint Joseph, reflecting his widespread veneration and influence across cultures. Prayers and devotions to Saint Joseph invoke his protection, guidance, and intercession in various aspects of life, reflecting his revered status in Christian tradition.