Feast of St Joseph

St Joseph and a hymn to St Joseph.

St Joseph is known of course for being the spouse of Mary and foster father of Jesus. He is also known as

• Patron Saint of fathers, and honoured in many countries.
• Patron of single women- especially those seeking a good husband.
• Patron of the dying- Many pray to him for the gift of a 'happy death'.

One Italian tradition of the Feast Day of St Joseph is to have a 'St Joseph's Table', filled with homemade and donated sweets and delights. The proceeds are given to charity. Items found on 'St Joseph's Table include shortbread, toffee, fudge, coconut ice and flapjacks which are displayed in ribboned boxes.

Relaxing one's Lenten penance is permitted on the Feast of St Joseph, as is St Patrick (March 17) and The Annunciation, (March 25) should one desire to celebrate it. Other people who prefer to maintain their Lenten penance can buy from 'St Joseph's Table' for family and friends for Easter.  It is one tradition of the Feast of St Joseph that can be revived, as it can bring the parish community together and a charity can benefit from the proceeds. It may be a project that the young people in the parish might consider.

HYMN TO ST JOSEPH

One tradition that I fondly remember is the singing of the Hymn to St Joseph.  I remember learning this hymn whilst I was still in primary school and I fondly remember the nun who taught it (God rest her soul). I have to say that at the time, I did not appreciate the words- just learning the whole 3 verses from memory was my major effort.  However, as each year passes and I sing it on the feast of St Joseph, I value the simplicity of the words and painted pictures contained in the words.

I hope that by sharing it with you that you too will appreciate and reflect on the life of St Joseph and what he means for your life.

GREAT ST JOSEPH.

Great St Joseph, Son of David,

Foster Father of Our Lord.

Spouse of Mary, ever-virgin

Keeping o'er them watch and ward.

In the stable thou didst guard them

with a father's loving care.

Thou by God's command didst save them

From the cruel Herod's snare.

Three long days in grief and anguish

With His Mother, sweet and mild,

Mary Virgin, thou didst wander

Seeking the beloved Child.

In the Temple thou didst find Him:

Oh what joy then filled thy heart.

In thy sorrows, in thy gladness

Grant us Joseph, to have part.

Clasped in Jesus' arms and Mary's

When death gently came at last,

Thy pure spirit sweetly sighing

From its earthly dwelling passed.

Dear Saint Joseph by that passing

May our death be like to thine.

And with Jesus, Mary Joseph

May our souls for ever shine.

Music: by A. G Stein, died 1852.