In the readings of today, we hear about the pedigree of Christ and the covenant between God and the people Israel, represented by King David. This kinship between God and His people is most immediately visible in Saint Joseph. The foster father of Our Lord was a descendant of David, and so Christ’s humanity, raised in Jewish society by “an upright man” (Matt. 1:19), is related to that of David and the chosen people of God.
Today we celebrate this great saint, the patron of the universal Church, and example for all, especially men, who care for children and everyone who puts their faith in God, despite limitations on their part.
Holy Saint Joseph, pray for us who wish to follow in the footsteps of your foster son, our Lord Jesus Christ,
That we may keep faith, hope and love in the face of doubt, adversity and misunderstanding;
Watch over the love in families, between parents and children, and between those who desire to be married and become parents;
Also, especially, pray for our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, and all who have taken your name at their baptism,
That you may be an example and foster father to them throughout their lives,
As you are for Him to Whom we entrust all our being,
Through Our Lord Jesus Christ,
Amen.
In Caelo et in Terra 