St. Joseph the Worker May 1st

The Feast of St. Joseph the Worker was established in the Church by Pope Pius XII in 1955 to provide Catholics with a response and alternative to “May Day” celebrations for workers in communist Russia; to Christianize the concept of labor and give to all workmen a model and a protector.

And yes, St Joseph, by daily labor in his shop, offered to God with patience and joy, provided for the necessities of Mary and Jesus, and thus became a model to all laborers.

When we search the Scriptures, we find St. Joseph present in the early life of Jesus: betrothed to Mary; present at the Nativity; in the home at Nazareth; and at the temple in Jerusalem.  He spoke no words quoted in the Gospel.  He is called righteous and just.  He was identified as a carpenter, a worker.  And yet, despite the fact that there is not an abundance of biblical references to him, Joseph’s prominent role in Jesus’ and Mary’s life as their guardian and protector and provider, earned him the Church’s attention throughout history.  Two feasts are assigned to him in the Church’s calendar: one, as “Husband of Mary” on March 19th; the other on May 1st as “the Worker.” 

Although Joseph is silent in the Scriptures, his place as the one who provided for his family speaks volumes through the ages.  It is fitting for us, as Catholics, seeking to be close to Christ in this time of need, to “go to Joseph” for his protection.

On the feast of St. Joseph the Worker, I invite all of you to “go to Joseph,” to pray for his intercession on behalf of all workers – may God keep them safe and healthy. Let’s also ask St. Joseph to intercede with God to find good, productive work for all those who are searching.

Fr. Chester