The Year of St. Joseph

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. Saint Joseph reminds us that those who appear hidden or in the shadows can play an incomparable role in the history of salvation."

- from the Apostolic Letter of the Holy Father Francis on the 150th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Saint Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church, given in Rome, at Saint John Lateran, on 8 December, Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, in the year 2020

In celebration of the 150th anniversary of Blessed Pope Pius IX’s declaration of St. Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church, Pope Francis has proclaimed a special “Year of St. Joseph.” It is a wonderful opportunity to increase our love for St. Joseph and knowledge, “to encourage us to implore his intercession and to imitate his virtues and his zeal" (Patris Corde).

Information will be added as we journey through this year.

Rhode Island Catholic is looking to highlight special events and those paying tribute to the head of the Holy Family, as part of Pope Francis’ call for the Year of St. Joseph.

All parishes, schools and individuals with a devotion to St. Joseph are welcome to send information regarding this to editor@thericatholic.com

• December 27, 2020, the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
• March 19, 2021, the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary
• May 1, 2021, the Optional Memorial of Saint Joseph the Worker
• The nineteenth day of each month
• Every Wednesday, the traditional day of the week for devotions to Saint Joseph
• "St. Joseph Sunday" and suitable days of other liturgical rites in the Eastern Catholic Churches

Hail, Guardian of the Redeemer,
Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
To you God entrusted his only Son;
in you Mary placed her trust;
with you Christ became man.

Blessed Joseph, to us too,
show yourself a father
and guide us in the path of life.
Obtain for us grace, mercy and courage,
and defend us from every evil. Amen.

 - Pope Francis, given in Rome, at Saint John Lateran, on 8 December, Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, in the year 2020