March 19

Feast of Saint Joseph

A religious observance on March 19 honoring Saint Joseph, husband of the Virgin Mary and foster father of Jesus Christ, as a principal feast on the Catholic liturgical calendar.

Yearly Date

March 19

Observed

Internationally

Introduction

Celebrate the Feast of Saint Joseph on March 19 with joy and gratitude! This day has been a part of Christian tradition since the Middle Ages, honoring St. Joseph, who is considered to be Jesus’ earthly father. It's a great opportunity to remember the many blessings in our lives, from our families to our homes. As we celebrate this day, it's an excellent time to get together with family and friends for a special meal or activity that honors St. Joseph and his legacy. Whether you're sharing an old family recipe or making new memories together, make sure to have fun and enjoy the moment!

Feast of Saint Joseph Timeline

1st Century AD

Life of Saint Joseph

Saint Joseph, the husband of the Virgin Mary and earthly father of Jesus Christ, lived during the 1st century AD.

10th Century

First Celebrations of Saint Joseph's Feast

The Feast of Saint Joseph was first instituted in the Western Church during the 10th century.

1479

Feast Day Included in Roman Calendar

Pope Sixtus IV inserted the feast into the Roman Calendar in 1479.

1621

Feast Becomes Holy Day of Obligation

Pope Gregory XV declared the Feast of St. Joseph a holy day of obligation in 1621.

1870

Saint Joseph Declared Patron of the Church

Pope Pius IX declared Saint Joseph the Patron of the Universal Church in 1870, raising the rank of his feast day.

1955

Establishment of Saint Joseph the Worker

Pope Pius XII established the feast of Saint Joseph the Worker, celebrated on May 1, to coincide with International Workers' Day in 1955.

How to Celebrate Feast of Saint Joseph

1 Attend Mass

Attending Mass is a great way to celebrate the Feast of Saint Joseph. Attend Mass at your local church or parish and give thanks for all the blessings Saint Joseph has provided.

2 Make a Saint Joseph's Table

Creating a Saint Joseph's Table is a traditional way to celebrate the feast day. Set up a table with foods, flowers, and other items connected to Saint Joseph and offer prayers for protection.

3 Read about Saint Joseph

Learn more about Saint Joseph by reading books or articles about him and his life. There are many stories of miracles attributed to him, as well as his role in the Bible.

4 Pray the Litany of Saint Joseph

The Litany of Saint Joseph is a beautiful prayer that can be said on the Feast of Saint Joseph. Pray it alone or with a group of friends or family.

5 Make a special meal

Cooking a special meal for the Feast of St. Joseph is a great way to honor him. Choose traditional dishes from his home country of Italy, such as lasagna, pizza, and risotto.

Why Feast of Saint Joseph is Important

It commemorates Saint Joseph's death and resurrection

The Feast of Saint Joseph is an important date in the Christian calendar as it marks the death and resurrection of Saint Joseph, who according to the Bible was a protector of Jesus. It is a reminder for us to reflect on the importance of having faith, following God's commands, and living with intention.

Feast of Saint Joseph celebrates fatherhood

The Feast of Saint Joseph is also seen as an opportunity to recognize Fatherhood along with celebrating St Joseph's life. Evoking his loyalty, protectiveness and unconditional love for Jesus in today’s context helps families and children revere their fathers for all that they do.

It promotes fellowship

The Feast of Saint Joseph also provides an occasion for Christians across different denominations to come together, celebrate their common beliefs about St. Joseph, and promote a spirit of unity through prayer, song and meal sharing - all within the theme of showing honor for St. Joseph at the forefront.