Joseph: An Unsung Hero

Today the Catholic Church celebrates the Solemnity of St. Joseph.

I had no particular devotion to Joseph growing up nor, for that matter, in the early years after my return to Catholicism in my early 40s. He was simply a figure hovering in the background at events like the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple, a (literal) figure I placed near the crib when we put out our creche every Christmas.

But over the years, he has come to be one of the saints who figure prominently when I visualize the communion of saints.

Joseph reminds us that one doesn’t have to have the starting role to play an important part.

Joseph reminds us that we can trust God, even when the world seems turned upside down.

Joseph reminds us to give people the benefit of the doubt even when their stories seem strange (read: completely unbelievable).

Joseph reminds us of the value of loyalty and fidelity even when they are hard.

Happy Feast of St. Joseph!

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