This devotion recognizes seven events in Joseph’s life that were difficult for him to endure. Many Catholics are familiar with the 7 Sorrows of Mary, a devotion honoring particular events in Mary’s life that caused her suffering, but few know about a similar devotion for St. Joseph. The tradition stems from a popular story about two
Missionaries, exorcists and satanists all attest to the power of St. Joseph’s intercession against demonic foes. When reciting the Litany of St. Joseph, many are surprised to see an invocation that states, “St. Joseph, Terror of Demons, pray for us.” Why does that title mean? St. Joseph’s intercession against demons is not well-documented, but has
The parents of the foster father of Jesus raised a “just man,” who would guard the Savior of the world. While the Church traditionally recognizes the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary as Sts. Joachim and Anne, little is ever mentioned about the parents of St. Joseph, the foster father of Jesus. Why is that?
Was he an old widower or a strapping young man? We don’t hear much about St. Joseph in the Bible. He is simply described as the “husband of Mary,” a “carpenter,” and a “just man” in the Gospel accounts. Neither his age nor his death is ever mentioned in Scripture. However, various traditions help shed some
His departure is known as the perfect example of a “happy death.” Little is known factually concerning the life of St. Joseph, foster father of Jesus. He is mentioned only a few times in the Gospels, and never says a word. However, most biblical scholars believe Joseph died prior to Jesus’ crucifixion. This is mainly
Art tells one story, history says another. Often certain biblical phrases don’t get translated very well. Take for example the common translation of Matthew 13:55. The people of Nazareth question Jesus’ divine power by asking, “Is he not the carpenter’s son?” This is, of course, in reference to Joseph, who is traditionally known as a