About St. Joseph

Key Facts and Life

Profession: He was a carpenter. He taught this trade to Jesus, who was often known as the carpenter’s son.

Royal Lineage: Despite his humble life, he was a descendant of King David, fulfilling prophecies that the Messiah would come from David’s house.

Role in the Holy Family: He protected Mary and Jesus from danger, most notably by fleeing to Egypt in the middle of the night to escape King Herod’s decree to kill infants.

Death: It is believed he died before Jesus began his public ministry, likely in the presence of Jesus and Mary, which is why he is the patron of a happy death.

Feast Days

March 19 (Solemnity of St. Joseph): His primary feast day, celebrating him as the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

May 1 (St. Joseph the Worker): Established by Pope Pius XII in 1955 to emphasize the dignity of work and serve as a Christian response to International Workers' Day.