Saint Joseph was the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the foster father of Jesus, a carpenter of Nazareth descended from the house of David. The Gospels describe him as a just man who obediently followed God's guidance given in dreams — taking Mary into his home, protecting the child Jesus in the flight to Egypt, and raising him in Nazareth. March 19 is his principal feast, the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, and he is honored as patron of the universal Church.
Joseph never speaks a word in Scripture; he simply trusts and acts, doing quiet, faithful work of protecting and providing for those God placed in his care. His example shows that holiness can live in ordinary labor, in fatherhood, and in silent fidelity when the road is confusing or frightening. He is also invoked as the patron of a happy death, a gentle guardian for all who grieve.
Saint Joseph, faithful guardian of the Holy Family, watch over our family as you watched over Jesus, and hold Ben close in the home of your Son. Amen.