Pope Francis celebrates the Feast of St Joseph with special greetings for all fathers
(Vatican Radio) Pope Francis on Wednesday celebrated the Feast of St. Joseph pointing
out that he is a model for all fathers and educators.
Speaking to the crowds
gathered in St. Peter’s Square for the General Audience, the Pope’s catechesis focused
on three aspects pertaining to the life and mission of St Joseph: as the “guardian”
of the Holy Family; as the teacher and educator of the young Jesus; and as a guide
who helped Jesus respond to the working of the Holy Spirit.
And speaking off
the cuff, the Pope sent special greetings to all the fathers of the world, thanking
them for what they do with their children. "Be close to your children" - the Pope
said - "they need you. Just as St. Joseph was close to Jesus in his physical, psychological
and spiritual growth, you too must be guardians in age, wisdom and grace".
listen
to the report by Linda Bordoni...
Please
find below the synopsis in English of the Pope’s catechesis:
Dear
Brothers and Sisters: Today, we celebrate the feast of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the
Virgin Mary and Patron of the universal Church. Saint Joseph is venerated as the
“guardian” of the Holy Family, and in this role he serves as a model for all fathers
and educators. Joseph watched over Jesus’ human development – his growth, as Saint
Luke tells us, “in wisdom, age and grace” (2:52). We think of how Joseph, as the
carpenter of Nazareth, taught the young Jesus his trade and the value of work. Joseph
also quietly imparted to Jesus that wisdom which consists above all in reverence for
the Lord, prayer and fidelity to his word, and obedience to his will. Joseph’s paternal
example helped Jesus to grow, on a human level, in his understanding and appreciation
of his unique relationship to his heavenly Father. With Our Lady, Joseph guided the
young Jesus as he responded to the working of the Holy Spirit in his heart and in
his life. By his example and prayers, may Saint Joseph be a sure guide to all parents,
priests and teachers charged with the education of our young.