Although "Saint Josephs Day" officially celebrated on the 19th of March, is usually observed in America along with other saints on November 1st, "All Saints Day", in Italy he is given much greater tribute and honor. His life was a beautiful example of devotion and patience and a strong faith in Spiritual guidance. I lovingly and respectfully dedicate this St Joseph's Day presentation to my beloved Mother who has been the single greatest inspiration in my life.

Before his marriage to Mary the faith of Joseph was tried and tested when he discovered the Mary was with child. Of course he was greatly troubled at this until an Angel of the Lord appeared to him in his sleep saying: "Joseph, son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife, for that which is conceived in her, is of the Holy Ghost..." Joseph, rising from his sleep, did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him, and took unto him his wife". (Matthew 1:19, 20, 24)

A few months later, the time came for Joseph and Mary to go to Bethlehem, to be enrolled, according to the decree issued by Caesar Augustus. These were trying times for the newly married couple as on their journey to Bethlehem they sought lodging and discovered that, "There was no room for them in the Inn". (Luke 2:1-7) They were however offered the only place available at the time, a barn where pasture animals were kept and shortly thereafter the birth of the Saviour Jesus Christ, and the coming of the Shepherds and Three Wise Men would all be part of the historical Christmas Story celebrated to this very day.

The original tradition of a St. Josephs Day began in Italy when there was a severe drought in Sicily in the middle ages. In desperation, people asked St. Joseph to intervene. They promised if rain came that they would prepare a big feast and celebration in his honor. This early tradition records that these prayers were answered with rainy weather. In gratitude, huge banquet tables were set-up and the local communities were invited to come and eat as much as they wanted. Today, special foods, linens, flowers, and statuary adornments honor the Altar of St. Joseph which is built with three steps representing the Holy Trinity.

Generosity marks this day, in accordance to the generous nature of Joseph himself. Today in many countries St. Josephs Day is celebrated with the sharing of food and survival materials with the poor and needy. In many places throughout the world and especially in Italy, St. Josephs Day is honored as everyone of any means contributes to a table spread in the public square as an offering for favors received from prayers to this kindly Saint. The bread made for this day is often shaped like a scepter or a beard. Villagers representing Jesus, Mary, and Joseph are guests of honor at the feast, and other guests include orphans, widows and beggars. After Mass, all participants go in a procession to this festive table as the priest blesses the feast.

Glorious Saint Joseph, spouse of the Immaculate Virgin, obtain for me a pure, humble, charitable mind, and perfect resignation to the divine Will. Be my guide, my father, and my model through life that I may merit to die as you did in the arms of Jesus and Mary.

Loving Saint Joseph, faithful follower of Jesus Christ, I raise my heart to you to implore your powerful intercession in obtaining from the Divine Heart of Jesus all the graces necessary for my spiritual and temporal welfare, particularly the grace of a happy death, and the special grace I now implore: ( Mention your request )

Guardian of the Word Incarnate, I feel confident that your prayers in my behalf will be graciously heard before the throne of God. Amen...