March 19 has been the feast day of St. Joseph since at least the tenth century in the West. Eastern and Oriental churches observe it on different days. Some Anglican and Lutheran communions also observe this day. The date is also observed as "Father's Day" in Spain, Portugal and Italy. There are also many gustatory celebrations on that date, especially in Italy. On Labour Day, he is also honoured as "St. Joseph the Worker."
The date always falls in Lent. Since 1969, individual Episcopal Conferences may transfer it to a date outside of Lent. If the date falls on a Friday, the usual Friday penances can be lifted. If the date falls during Holy Week, it can be moved to the closest available date before March 19.
Not very much is known about St. Joseph. From the non-canonical Protoevangelion, we find that he was an older man and a widower with grown children. He is thought to have died before Jesus' public ministry, as he makes no appearance after the birth narratives.
Devotion to St. Joseph grew slowly. There is almost no mention of him in the early church. Devotion to him was especially fostered by St. Brigit of Sweden and St. Bernadine of Siena.
The date always falls in Lent. Since 1969, individual Episcopal Conferences may transfer it to a date outside of Lent. If the date falls on a Friday, the usual Friday penances can be lifted. If the date falls during Holy Week, it can be moved to the closest available date before March 19.
Not very much is known about St. Joseph. From the non-canonical Protoevangelion, we find that he was an older man and a widower with grown children. He is thought to have died before Jesus' public ministry, as he makes no appearance after the birth narratives.
Devotion to St. Joseph grew slowly. There is almost no mention of him in the early church. Devotion to him was especially fostered by St. Brigit of Sweden and St. Bernadine of Siena.