Pope Francis has designated this year (December 2020 -December 2021) the year of St Joseph.
As the person given the responsibility of being Jesus’ foster father, he is a figure quietly and unceremoniously caring for and nurturing the Son of God.
We don’t really hear anything about Joseph in the New Testament apart from the four messages given to him by the Angel Gabriel.
Pope Francis says this, ‘“Each of us can discover in Joseph – the man who goes unnoticed, a daily, discreet and hidden presence – an intercessor, a support and a guide in times of trouble”
What Pope Francis is saying, is that Joseph is a role model who goes about his daily life, as a carpenter and father, without drawing attention to himself. This is especially important in a world where role models, especially male role models, are in short supply. He is faithful, hard working and caring.
This year we could all learn from the quiet, humble manner in which St Joseph went about his life.
St Joseph – Pray for us.
